Monday 14 December 2009

A very Merry and dog friendly Christmas menu!

Today, we've launched a new veterinary approved Doggy Christmas Menu in a bid to raise awareness of the dangers some traditional Christmas treats can pose to man’s best friend.

Christmas is always a time of indulgence as we tuck into our mince pies and much favoured Christmas puddings! Sadly, many people also unwittingly over-indulge their dogs with festive treats and human foods (or the pooches are very sneaky and help themselves). Unfortunately, in some cases, this can prove fatal.

Dog poisoning is a serious problem and every Christmas a worrying number of dogs become seriously ill after eating human foods such as chocolate and raisins. Feeding your dog human foods can have dire consequences such as vomiting, diarrhoea, lethargy and in some cases chronic breathing difficulties. Other dangerous foods for dogs include dates, grapes, mince pies, Christmas puddings, whole brazil nuts, excessive amounts of cheese, alcohol, onion, raw potato (green), turkey bones and high content cocoa chocolate.

Dogs Trust Veterinary Director, Chris Laurence, suggests:

“As a vet I have seen some terrible examples of dog poisoning over the Christmas period. In many cases the owner was totally unaware of the hidden dangers and was simply intending to be kind to their dog who was eager to share in the festive treats. Like with humans, all foods should be given in moderation. Other festive items to avoid giving your dog include Hollie berries, Mistletoe, xylitol based sweetner and alcohol such as mulled wine.”
However, help is at hand. Dogs Trust has devised a delicious, healthy and safe three-course Doggy Christmas Menu specially designed with dogs in mind. Veterinary approved dishes include Mutt Nog, Cranberry and Turkey Goble Gobble, Pooches Glazed Vegetables and Doggy Mince Pies.

TV actor and presenter, Jeremy Edwards’ much loved dog, Molly, was the first to take part in a canine taste test. Jeremy explains:

“Molly has certainly given her paw of approval to this risk-free Christmas treat. Despite being a fussy eater, she particularly adores the doggy mince pies - she devoured them in 30 seconds flat!”
Anyone wanting to give their canine a special treat this Christmas can download the complete doggy menu amd recipes (opens new browser window).





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