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Christmas is an exciting time, and not just for humans! There are many additional hazards and points to consider if you are caring for a Holidays 4 Dogs canine over the festive period so we have put together a list, in order to ensure that their stay and your time with them is happy and stress free.

Christmas often means a change of routine in one form or another. If you have children, they will be on holiday from school and will invariably be excited, possibly noisy and often bored towards the end of their break. Make sure that they know how to behave around your canine guest (including any of their friends who may come to visit) and try to minimise additional noise, or provide a quiet place for the dog to retreat to in another room.

Remember that if you have visitors, they may not be as fond of dogs jumping all over them as you are, particularly if they are wearing smart Christmas clothes. Your dog may be wary of some strangers, particularly if it is the first time they have stayed away from home. Visitors may not also be as switched on when it comes to leaving external doors open. Consider your dog`s personality and needs and make sure they feel safe and are not left out.

Ensure that party nibbles and other food are not left at nose height on a coffee table. The biggest cause of stomach upsets is dogs eating food which is unsuitable for them.

Remember that many dogs are unused to excessive noise such as loud party music and even things such as charity Santa floats, usually playing loud Christmas songs and followed by a knock at the door, which visit many areas during December. Also be aware if your immediate neighbours are throwing a party as there may be additional noise and car doors banging late at night outside.

Be especially careful about leaving presents underneath your Christmas tree if this is in an room your dog has access to. They are experts in sniffing out edible presents and chocolate is one of the most common causes of poisoning in canines.

Be wary of leaving dogs unattended if decorations are within their reach. Many dogs have been known to apparently ignore a tree, tinsel, shiny tennis ball sized baubles and wrapping paper for days and then take a sudden interest when left alone for just a few moments.

If your canine guest is male, be aware that they may not know the difference between an indoor and an outdoor tree when it comes to cocking their leg, especially if your tree is real and smells interesting!

On Christmas morning, dogs will instinctively pick up on a change of mood if your family are excited, bustling about in the kitchen and opening presents. Try to keep their routine as normal as possible in terms of feeding and walking times, even if you have had a late night and would prefer a lie-in!

Never leave presents lying around on the floor, particularly children`s toys, as this can prove far too tempting for a dog who is inclined to chew. They may not understand the difference between a child`s toy and a dog toy, which could cause them harm if swallowed and will undoubtedly end in tears for the recipient of the gift!

Never give dogs turkey bones as a treat, as small splinters can easily be swallowed and cause an obstruction in the intestines.

Fireworks are now commonplace on New Year`s Eve and many people turn up the volume on their television to countdown to midnight, followed by a loud cheer. All of these factors may prove too much for your guest so plan ahead and if you think they are likely to become stressed, follow the tips in our noise phobia advice section, allow them access to a quiet room with gentle continuous background music and remain calm around them at all times.

If you should have any problems or questions, you can always reach us by telephone. Claire and the team at Holidays 4 Dogs would like to wish all of our carers and families a very happy and peaceful Christmas.