Dog owners and those thinking of buying a dog should take care to follow some simple steps during the festive season to ensure that their dogs stay fit and healthy, according to the Kennel Club, who today issued its very own Christmas message.

The message comes amid fears that an increasing number of people are failing to take their dogs to the vets if something is wrong with them, in a bid to save money as the credit crunch bites. It also comes as dog re-homing charities report an increased number of abandoned dogs through their doors.

Marc Abraham, Kennel Club veterinary advisor, said: “There are a lot of people who are struggling financially in today’s economic climate and never more so than at Christmas. So now, more than ever, it is important that people do not buy their dog on a whim but give it very careful consideration and remember that it is a lifetime commitment; they need to be able to afford the vet bills and other costs that come with being a dog owner. If they do decide that a pedigree dog it is the right decision for them they should consult the Kennel Club's excellent Breed Rescue Directory, or if they would like a puppy then contact a Kennel Club Accredited Breeder, who will care about their puppy’s health and welfare.

“For those that already do own dogs, there are some simple steps that people can follow, to ensure that their dogs stay healthy and happy over the festive period and to avoid unnecessary veterinary expenses.” 

Kennel Club top tips:

•        Food – It is tempting to treat your pet at Christmas, especially when there are so many festive foods floating around. But a dog’s digestive system is different to a human’s and your attempts at kindness can be potentially dangerous. Chocolate, for instance, can be extremely poisonous to dogs and if you think your dog has got hold of a box-full speak to your vet immediately. As a rule, the darker the chocolate the worse it is and the smaller the dog the less it can stomach, without suffering ill-effects. Symptoms of chocolate poisoning include vomiting, diarrhoea and increased urination, progressing to seizures and sometimes death. Turkey bones can cause choking and constipation, as well as seriously damaging internal organs.

•        Decorations – Remember, your home is your dog’s home too, so make sure that your decorations are safe for your four-legged friend. Seasonal plants such as holly, poinsettia, ivy and mistletoe are all extremely toxic, so please think very carefully when you’re busy decking your halls. Similarly, brightly-coloured baubles and tantalising tinsel are new and exciting objects for your dog. Securely attach any fragile glass decorations, making sure they’re kept out of reach at the top of your tree to avoid them being pulled off, broken and trodden on. Make sure fairy lights and electric wires are chew-proof from inquisitive puppies.

•        Exercise – Unlike the rest of your family, dogs don’t require expensive presents to enjoy the festive period. A daily walk is what your dog will really want to keep it healthy and to show it that you care.

•        Celebrations - If you are staying at home this Christmas then spare a thought for nervous pets when pulling crackers or popping party poppers; perhaps shut them securely in a quieter room with the radio on, and check on them regularly. Christmas can be such a worrying time for pets, with lots of noise and unfamiliar guests arriving; some love it and some don’t, so please be sensitive to their feelings too.

•        Love and attention – Dogs are social animals and don’t like to be left alone for long periods of time. If you are going on holiday, why not take them with you? The Kennel Club can give you advice about how to prepare for this. Or, if you are out and about on a day-trip, there are lots of places that are dog friendly – you can find these by going to the Kennel Club’s Open for Dogs website at www.openfordogs.org.uk. If you really do need to leave your dog at home for the day it will require the help of a responsible (and sober) friend or neighbour to visit, feed and care for him or her.

•        Buying a dog or a puppy  - Finally, you should never, ever give pets as presents. If you are seriously thinking about getting your own furry friend – and have to time to devote to it and can afford the costs involved - then why not visit your local rescue centre in January, where sadly there will be plenty of new arrivals to choose from. You can call the Kennel Club to find your local Breed Rescue Centre or charities such as Battersea and Blue Cross are always in need of help. And if you are buying a pedigree puppy then you should always go to a Kennel Club Accredited Breeder, who has agreed to follow the required health checks for their breed, to ensure that your new family member has the best chance of living a long and healthy life. You can find puppies for sale in your area and marks indicating which of these breeders are on the Kennel Club Accredited Breeder Scheme at www.findapuppy.org.uk.Do not fall prey to puppy farmers this Christmas, who breed dogs in poor conditions, which can have ill effects on their health. Puppy buyers should not buy from pet shops, where the dogs may well have come from puppy farmers and should always see the puppy with its mother and in its home environment.

The Kennel Club wishes all dogs and dog owners a very happy Christmas and a healthy and happy New Year.

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