Expert reveals the common festive foods that could be fatal for your four legged friend

On a day filled with expensive hams, seafood, chocolate cakes, and leftovers, there’s one family member who will keep their hands or paws off the food.

The holiday season is the busiest time of the year, so it’s more important than ever to pay attention to what your pet eats, Animal Emergency Service said.

Hill’s Pet Nutrition veterinarian Dr. “While many pet parents are aware of common dangers like chocolate and grapes, it’s the less obvious foods that catch people noticing,” said Ilze Nel.

“Typical Australian BBQ favorites such as sausage sizzle may contain onion or garlic powder, and it is these ‘hidden’ ingredients that can damage a dog’s red blood cells and lead to serious health problems.”

To ensure your pet doesn’t get sick, Dr. Nel has put together the perfect guide to keeping your pup on the good list.

Naughty list (do not feed)

• Grapes and raisins
• onion and garlic
• Avocado
• Alcohol and caffeine
• macadamia nuts
• Xylitol – artificial sweetener found in many sugar-free products
• cooked bones

Nice list (safe for occasional treats)

• Fruits such as apples, bananas, blueberries, strawberries, pears and watermelon are all safe for dogs when the seeds, stems and cores are removed.
• Carrots, beans, zucchini, sweet potatoes, broccoli, cucumbers and peas
• Plain cooked chicken, turkey, lean beef, fish and scrambled eggs

Dr Nel talked about the strange scenarios that can arise when well-intentioned guests leave pets with a small treat or two under the table.

“It’s best to avoid offering any human food to your dog unless you’re sure it’s safe,” he said.

Other Christmas dangers for pets

Other hazards to be aware of include Christmas decorations, batteries, ribbons and strings; We all know a Labrador who eats everything in sight.

No matter how right it may feel to give a dog a bone, cooked bones can splinter and cause choking or serious internal injuries.

“Our advice to pet parents is simple: keep human food out of reach, avoid feeding leftovers, and most importantly, inform any guests or pet sitters about what is and is not safe to offer your cat.”

“It’s small steps that can make a big difference and help ensure your pet stays safe,” she said.