1. Try and keep Christmas decorations out of reach of pets, nibbling on tinsel, glass ornaments and lights could prove fatal.

2. Foods to be avoided include chocolate, grape products, onions and bones.

3. Seasonal plants like poinsettias, holly and mistletoe are toxic to pets if eaten.

4. Make sure your pet has a safe and quiet place to retreat to if things get a bit noisy, as they can easily get distressed.

5. And finally although it's a cliché, remember a dog is for life, not just for Christmas. If  you are welcoming a small animal into your family, make sure you are completely ready for them!

In an our of hours emergency you will speak directly to one of our veterinary team, not a call centre.  St Boniface Vets is committed to providing you and your pet with quality veterinary care 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.  If you have any concerns over the Christmas period, please call 01363 772860 and select Option 1.  You will then connect straight through to our out of hours duty vet.