Easter is a time of joy, celebration, and the occasional chocolate indulgence. While we're busy hunting for colourful eggs, it's important to remember that our furry friends might not share the same enthusiasm for some of our Easter treats. Here's a short guide on how to keep your pets safe and sound during the Easter celebrations.
CHOCOLATE DANGERS
- While we humans savour the sweetness of chocolate, it can be a recipe for disaster for our pets.
- Theobromine, the compound found in chocolate, is toxic to dogs and cats with dark chocolate containing higher levels, making it more hazardous.
- Keep your Easter baskets out of paw's reach, ensuring your pets don't accidentally devour a chocolaty surprise.
NO NIBBLING ON LILIES
- Beautiful Easter lilies might add a touch of elegance to your home, but they pose a severe threat to our feline friends.
- Ingesting any part of a lily plant can cause kidney failure in cats. Instead, buy only pet-friendly flowers or artificial alternatives to keep your home looking lovely whilst being safe.
- It’s not just lilies that can be toxic to our dogs and cats: daffodils, amaryllis, hyacinth, tulips, bluebells, foxgloves, crocus and rhododendrons are also poisonous. Not all parts of the plants may be toxic, but take care to notice if your dog eats any plants when you’re out and about on Spring walks together.
EASTER BASKET CAUTION
- That colourful, shredded paper grass may look like harmless fun, but if ingested, it can cause digestive issues or even blockages in your pet's intestines.
- Choose safer alternatives like hay or straw or skip the grass altogether to avoid an unplanned visit to the vet.
WATCH OUT FOR DECORATIONS
- Decorations like small figurines, ribbons, and other Easter embellishments might look like toys to our curious pets.
- Make sure these items are securely placed out of your pet's reach to avoid any accidental ingestions or choking hazards.
EASTER FEAST MODERATION
- If you're planning a festive feast, be cautious about sharing human food with your pets. Some ingredients, like onions and garlic, can be harmful to animals.
- Easter favourites hot cross bun are also off the menu for our for our pets, as raisins and sultanas are both poisonous.
- While a small serving of plain cooked meat is usually safe, avoid seasoning or using any sauces such as gravy that may contain harmful ingredients.
- There are of course now chocolate Easter eggs specially made for dogs. If you do decide to buy a pet-safe treat for your pet, remember to only offer them in small amounts as part of a balanced healthy diet.
- Why not skip the edible treats altogether and treat your pet to an extra special groom? Your time spent with them will strengthen the bond between you and leave your pet looking and feeling fresh for Spring. Especially as our pets will have started moulting at this time of year! Take a look at our humane coat rakes, grooming gloves and brushes to give your pets coat the ultimate shine.
If you see your pet eat something that is potentially dangerous, don’t wait to see if they develop symptoms. Contact your vet straight away for their advice.
Remember, a little extra caution goes a long way in ensuring a happy and safe Easter for both you and your furry companions. Here's to a paw-some celebration filled with love, laughter, and pet-friendly festivities!