This Christmas, Keep These Toxic Foods And Plants Away From Your Dog

Tis the season! The tree is up, gifts are piling up under the tree, the lights and decorations are out, the spirit of Christmas is in the air…

While we may delight in these moments, certain holiday decor — like festive plants — and certain foods — like most human treats — are poisonous to our dogs. While we want to include our dogs in our celebrations, these items should be kept far away from our pups to ensure every member of the family has a wonderful and safe time.

Here is a list of dangerous plants, according to Vets Now and American Kennel Club (AKC):

• Poinsettia

• Mistletoe

• Holly (both the berry and leaf)

• Amaryllis

• Lily

• Peace Lily

• Calla Lily

• Lily of the Valley

• Palm Lily

• Christmas Cactus

• Christmas Rose

• Ivy

• Daffodil

• Autumn Crocus

• Giant Dracaena

Here is a list of no-no foods, according to Reader’s Digest, Which? and Chewy:

• Chocolate

• Candy

• Popcorn

• Pies and puddings

• Sweets with artificial sweetener xylitol 

• Raw or undercooked meat

• Bones from any kind of meat

• Bread dough

• Cake batter

• Any festive drinks (alcoholic or non-alcoholic)

• Macadamia nuts

• Grapes

• Raisins

• Rich and fatty foods

• Sage

• Hot foods

• Too much of anything 

The holidays are a lovely time to break out our favorite festive foods and decor — but being aware of what is safe (and what is not) to have around your dog is imperative during this fun and spirited time!