It can be hard to keep pets away from our food at the best of times — but it is especially difficult at Christmas when mince pies and chocolates are flowing.
So it’s no surprise that calls to John Lewis’ Pet Insurance vet phone line soared last December when pets were left sick after inhaling festive foods.
According to the insurer, the call volume to Vetfone grew by 30% in December 2020 when compared with the previous year.
Poisoning threat: Calls to John Lewis’ Pet Insurance vet phone line soared last December when pets were left sick after inhaling festive foods
15% of all calls were related to vomiting, and this was the primary reason why people dialed in.
Diarrhoea and issues with movement, bladder trouble, loss of appetite, etc. are the most frequent issues.
A dog that had eaten a piece of wood cooking skewer and another who had taken a portion of a tray was one notable example.
John Lewis veterinarians warn dogs against raisins in cake, cheeseboard grapes and chocolate.
Jade Potter, head of John Lewis Pet Insurance, says: ‘Christmas can be hectic for even the most seasoned pet owners as they juggle hosting, cooking, eating and merriment along with their pet duties.’
In addition, the insurer noted that there was a spike in calls to its helpline between December 23rd and 31, respectively.
It was due to a surge in owners cautiously celebrating Christmas with their pets after they were released from lockdown.
h.kelly@dailymail.co.uk