The Big No-No Foods & Toxins

• Chocolate – Dark is the worst; even small amounts can cause vomiting, tremors or seizures in dogs.
• Macadamia nuts – Unique to us Aussies and super toxic; weakness and vomiting can start within hours.
• Xylitol (in sugar-free lollies & gum) – Sends blood sugar crashing fast, especially in dogs.
• Onions, garlic, grapes & raisins – Hide them well; even tiny bits in stuffing or fruit mince pies can damage red blood cells.
• Fatty scraps & bones – Hello pancreatitis and splinter risks.

Golden rule: If it drops on the floor, assume your pet will hoover it up. Keep bins locked and guests briefed!

Heat & Car Dangers

• Never leave pets in the car – not even “for five minutes”. On a 30 °C day the inside hits 50 °C in under 10 minutes.
• Walk only in the early morning or late evening; hot pavement burns paw pads.
• Always carry water and a collapsible bowl on outings.

Travel & Motion Sickness Tips

• Do short practice drives before the big family road trip.
• Feed a light meal 3–4 hours before leaving.
• Ask us about safe anti-nausea meds if your dog drools at the sight of the car.

Fireworks & Noise Phobia

• Create a quiet “safe zone” with their bed, favourite toys and background music.
• Try calming treats, pheromone diffusers or anxiety wraps – start a few days early.
• Keep walks well before dark on big firework nights.

Quick Checklist Before the Festivities

• Is your pet microchipped and are details up to date?
  
• Have Pet Poison Line saved: 1300 869 738 (Animal Poisons Centre)
• Book a pre-holiday health check if they’re due – we’ve got appointments right up to Christmas Eve.

Here’s to a summer full of zoomies, not emergencies! What’s your go-to trick for keeping pets calm during storms or fireworks?