Christmas is usually a time of overindulgencefor the whole family, with many good foods and fine wines being consumed inlarge quantities. With Fido or Felix looking on with hungry eyes, it's temptingto toss them a tasty morsel every so often.

But did you know that this could be fatalto your beloved pet? Nuts, onions, chocolate, fatty foods and alcohol may formpart of most Christmas feasts, but can be the cause of a visit to the animalemergency hospital for your pet.

Bones from cooked meats can tear dogs andcats internal organs, with cooked turkey bones topping the list of hazards atChristmas time. It's best to firmly secure all leftover scraps so that yourpets, and scavenging dogs in the neighbourhood cannot rummage them from thebins.

Onions and nuts can cause weakness and evenparalysis in dogs, and it is common knowledge that in any form is highlypoisonous to dogs, as they cannot properly digest certain enzymes in chocolate.

Pancreatitis is also a common threat duringthe festive because pets are fed fatty Christmas leftovers. Even alcohol, inthe form of brandy soaked raisins given to your parrot for example, can quickltturn into a distressing health problem.

Keep your young pets such as puppies, whichlike to chew or kittens which like to chase sparkly baubles, away from theChristmas tree and decorations. They could swallow a sharp object or chew atoxic tree decoration and then need an emergency visit to the vet in the middleof the family festivities.

 BuyingChristmas gifts for your pets is a great way to include them in the Christmasspirit, and the best gift you can give your pet is the gift of . This willensure your peace of mind should anything befall your dear animal, and ensurethat they get the medical treatment they need and deserve. does notcost very much and is well worth it in the long run, and in an emergency.