new puppy?book into our puppy preschool 4779 5222
emergency?we can fit you in! phone 07 4779 5222
doggy breath?ask us about our dental month deals!
forgetting something?we can make remembering parasite control a breeze

HERMIT PARK VETERINARY HOSPITAL

223 Charters Towers Rd, Hermit Park Phone: 07 4779 5222

BAYSIDE VETERINARY CLINIC

34 Primrose Street, Belgian Gardens Phone: 07 4772 1513

TOP TIPS FOR A PET SAFE CHRISTMAS

Photo credit : httpswww.pexels.comphotodog-christmas-xmas-bulldog-3884

Christmas is just around the corner and in all the hustle and bustle your pet can be exposed to an array of new hazards and stressful situations. Don’t forget your pet in the preparations so that they have a fun and healthy Christmas too!

 

 

 

 

FOODS TO AVOID

  • Chocolate– chocolate is toxic to dogs. Make sure they do not have access to it and remember they can smell what is inside boxes so make sure presents containing chocolate are kept out of reach.
  • Dried fruit– Sultanas can cause renal failure even in relatively small amounts. So make sure your pet has no access to fruit mince, Christmas cake or puddings.
  • Cooked bones– People are often inclined to not waste the bone of a roast meal by giving it to the dog. Cooked bone is undigestible and more likely to splinter which can result in serious conditions like obstructions and intestinal perforation.
  • Fatty meals– Do not feed your pet table scraps or extra special treats this Christmas. Fatty meals and sudden changes in diet can predispose pets to developing gastritis and pancreatitis.
  • Onions, Garlic and Avocado– are all toxic and should be avoided.

 

CHRISTMAS DECORATIONS

  • Christmas tree– Make sure your tree is secured or weighted properly to stop it from falling over. Dogs can knock trees over and cats can be inclined to try and climb them.
  • Decorations– tinsel and ribbon if can be eaten by playful pets and cause obstruction of their intestines. Make sure these items are kept out of reach. When hanging low ornaments remember cats are inclined to swat and dogs are inclined to chew so bear this in mind when choosing their position.
  • Christmas lights and power cords– dogs can be inclined to chew these risking electrocution. Keep these secured out of reach as much as possible.

 ANXIETY & PHOBIAS

  • Change of routine & stress– visitors and change of routine can cause stress and make pets more likely to develop gut upsets. Try and maintain your usual routine as much as possible (for example daily walks etc.) and make sure pets have a quiet space to retreat to when visitors come over.
  • Fireworks & christmas crackers– This is a time of increased noise for those noise phobic pets. Make sure your pet is safe and secure and has a dark quiet place to retreat to. If your pet is overly distressed by noise consult us for more advice as there are actions and medications that can help with this.

VETERINARY CARE

  • Health Care- Remember to make sure you pet is up to date with their vaccinations, worming, flea and tick control in preparation for the festive season. Especially if you intend to board your pet or visit family/ friends with pets.
  • Opening Hours-

Christmas Day- Both clinics closed

Sat 26th Dec -Mon 28th December- Hermit Park open 10am-12pm each day.

Tuesday 29th Dec- Thurs 31st Dec- Normal trading hours

New Year’s Day – Open 10am-12pm Hermit Park

Sat 2nd Jan- Normal trading hours resume both clinics.

  • Emergency Care- If your pet requires veterinary attention outside of our opening hours on Public Holidays or Weekends please phone JCU Vets on 1300 JCU VET. We offer our own afterhours service on weeknights ph 4779 5222.

AFTER HOURS EMERGENCY? PH 4779 5222