Millions of dog owners across the United Kingdom have been issued a stark financial and health warning this festive season, with emergency veterinary bills potentially exceeding £1,000.
The Hidden Dangers on Your Christmas Plate
While most pet parents are aware of the risks posed by chocolate and raisins, new research reveals that seemingly harmless Christmas dinner trimmings are causing chaos. A survey by pet insurance provider ManyPets, conducted in November 2025, found that gravy and stuffing are major culprits behind a shocking number of emergency vet visits each December.
Dr Kirsten Ronngren, the resident vet at ManyPets, explains the hidden threats. "People might think it’s ok to hand over a little gravy or stuffing, but both can contain ingredients that are harmful for dogs," she said. "It’s not always the obvious things like chocolate - the biggest dangers can be hiding in plain sight on your Christmas plate."
Stuffing often contains onions and garlic, which are toxic to canines and can cause damage to red blood cells. Meanwhile, gravy is typically packed with excessive salt and fat, which can lead to pancreatitis, vomiting, and severe digestive issues.
Festive Chaos and Costly Consequences
The survey of 2,000 UK pet owners paints a vivid picture of festive mishaps. One in three admitted their pet caused some kind of Christmas disaster, from toppled trees and shredded wrapping paper to chewed fairy lights and swallowed decorations like baubles.
However, the primary source of trouble is food. Over 40% of owners reported their pet ate something they shouldn't have, with the top offenders being:
- Gravy
- Stuffing
- Pigs in blankets
- Mince pies
The financial impact is significant. Half of the owners surveyed confessed to spending between £251 and £500 fixing festive pet-related incidents. In more severe cases, emergency veterinary treatment over the Christmas period has seen bills tip past the £1,000 mark.
Creating a Safe Haven for Anxious Pets
Dr Ronngren also highlights that the festive period itself can be overwhelming for animals. "The noise, the smells, the visitors - it can be overwhelming," she stated. To mitigate this stress, she advises owners to provide their pet with a quiet ‘safe zone’ containing their familiar bed and favourite toys, offering a dedicated space to decompress.
The key takeaway for the nation's dog lovers is clear: vigilance is essential. By keeping festive plates out of reach and understanding the hidden risks in traditional foods, owners can protect their furry family members from harm and avoid a financially painful start to the New Year.
