From loud parties to a few too many leftovers, veterinary surgeries up and down the country will see a rise in admissions over the festive period.

Marie Kemmish, senior small animal vet at St Boniface Veterinary Clinic highlights a few areas where taking extra care can ensure owners keep their pets healthy and safe this Christmas.

If you are throwing a party remember that loud music, Christmas crackers and big crowds, can prove distressing for pets if they’re not used to it.

“Party poppers can upset pets who are sensitive to noise, and they can be just as distressing as a firework display,” said Mrs Kemmish. “Cats are particularly sensitive to changes in their home, so providing your pet with a safe, quiet place they can retreat to, can help avoid problems.

It's important to always closely supervise children and animals, especially if your pet is not used to little people.”

We all like to indulge at Christmas but over-feeding your pet can cause an upset tummy, and may lead to vomiting and diarrhea. Feeding animals cooked bones is a definite no-no, as they can splinter when they’re eaten. Other foods, to avoid include grapes, chocolate, onions and Macadamia nuts.

"Make sure chocolate products are well out of range. Chocolate (especially dark chocolate) contains toxins that can be fatal to dogs if a large amount is eaten."

“Make sure things like plastic packaging and tinsel and glass decorations are out of reach,  animals, especially kittens and puppies, are inquisitive and could eat them,” said Mrs Kemmish.

In an out of hours emergency you will speak directly to one of their 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 the vet on duty.

Finally Marie, Tony and the rest of the vets, nurses and support staff would like to wish all their clients and pets a very Merry Christmas and a Happy and Healthy New Year!