Seasonal and everyday safety
Seasonal and
everyday safety
Explore safety tips for summer heat, car travel, toxic foods, plants and more, so you can help keep your dog safe and healthy all year round.
Wellness plans and pet insurance serve different roles in your pet’s healthcare — but they complement each other perfectly. Here’s how they work...
We’ve all seen it – dogs with their heads hanging out the window, paws on the dashboard or even curled up on their...
When things get a bit hairy, pet insurance can help Much like human family members, our pets can unexpectedly fall ill or get...
When you’re boarding your dog at a kennel or your cat at a cattery for the first time, it can be a daunting...
With the hustle and bustle of the holidays, it’s easy to forget that our pets can also get stressed and anxious. Family gatherings,...
The last thing anyone wants is a pet emergency during the festive summer season, the time we reserve for celebration, fun and relaxation. While...
Much like humans, dogs can experience the discomfort of sunburn, which not only causes pain but also increases the risk of skin cancer....
Wellness plans and pet insurance serve different roles in your pet’s healthcare — but they complement each other perfectly. Here’s how they work...
We’ve all seen it – dogs with their heads hanging out the window, paws on the dashboard or even curled up on their...
When things get a bit hairy, pet insurance can help Much like human family members, our pets can unexpectedly fall ill or get...
When you’re boarding your dog at a kennel or your cat at a cattery for the first time, it can be a daunting...
With the hustle and bustle of the holidays, it’s easy to forget that our pets can also get stressed and anxious. Family gatherings,...
The last thing anyone wants is a pet emergency during the festive summer season, the time we reserve for celebration, fun and relaxation. While...
Much like humans, dogs can experience the discomfort of sunburn, which not only causes pain but also increases the risk of skin cancer....
Quiz: Do you know your pet car safety?
Think you’re a pro at keeping your furry friend safe on the road? From seatbelts to travel tips, test your knowledge and find out if your car safety game is on point.
Quiz: Do you know your pet car safety?
Think you’re a pro at keeping your furry friend safe on the road? From seatbelts to travel tips, test your knowledge and find out if your car safety game is on point.
Household hazards and first aid
Household hazards and first aid
Simple dog-proofing tips to prevent accidents at home and what to do in the event of an emergency.
When your pet is unwell or hurt, it can feel overwhelming. Some situations can safely wait for your regular vet, while others call...
Do you know how to keep your dog or cat safe in a fire, flood or cyclone? We give tips on making an...
Bringing home a new puppy? Get ready for zoomies, cuddles, woopsies and… total chaos. Puppies are adorable little explorers, but their curiosity often...
Pets are naturally curious, often exploring their surroundings with their noses and mouths. While some of this curiosity can be harmless, certain plants...
Our pets often surprise us with their curiosity and occasional unpredictability. While we all hope to avoid emergencies, being prepared with basic first...
Chocolate is a big no-no for our pets. While we enjoy its rich, sweet taste, it contains ingredients our dogs and cats can’t...
When your pet is unwell or hurt, it can feel overwhelming. Some situations can safely wait for your regular vet, while others call...
Do you know how to keep your dog or cat safe in a fire, flood or cyclone? We give tips on making an...
Bringing home a new puppy? Get ready for zoomies, cuddles, woopsies and… total chaos. Puppies are adorable little explorers, but their curiosity often...
Pets are naturally curious, often exploring their surroundings with their noses and mouths. While some of this curiosity can be harmless, certain plants...
Our pets often surprise us with their curiosity and occasional unpredictability. While we all hope to avoid emergencies, being prepared with basic first...
Chocolate is a big no-no for our pets. While we enjoy its rich, sweet taste, it contains ingredients our dogs and cats can’t...
What to keep out of paw’s reach
What to keep out of paw’s reach
Dr Katrina Warren reveals 15 common dangers every dog owner should know – watch now to keep your pets safe!
Chocolate toxicity calculator
Worried your dog has eaten chocolate? Use our toxicity calculator to check the risk and find out what to do.
Chocolate toxicity calculator
Worried your dog has eaten chocolate? Use our toxicity calculator to check the risk and find out what to do.
FAQs
Your top dog safety questions, answered by the experts.
Common foods that are toxic to dogs include chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, alcohol and xylitol (an artificial sweetener). These can cause serious health issues like liver damage, kidney failure or digestive problems. Other harmful foods include cooked bones, certain nuts and avocados. Keep these well out of reach and avoid giving your dog anything not specifically made for pets. If your dog eats something you’re worried about, contact your vet immediately.
Many common plants can be harmful to dogs, including lilies, azaleas, daffodils and oleander. Rhododendrons, foxgloves and poinsettias are also risky. These plants can cause symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhoea, drooling or, in severe cases, organ failure. If your dog eats a toxic plant, seek veterinary care immediately. Keep unsafe plants out of reach or choose pet-safe varieties. If you are unsure whether a plant is safe, check with your vet.
Chocolate is toxic to dogs because it contains ingredients that they can’t metabolise, like theobromine and caffeine. Even small amounts can cause vomiting or diarrhoea, while larger amounts can lead to a fast heart rate, tremors or seizures. The effects will depend on the size of your dog and the type and quantity of chocolate they’ve eaten. Our chocolate toxicity calculator can help you work out whether your dog has eaten a dangerous amount. If you suspect your dog has eaten any amount of chocolate, contact your vet straight away. Early treatment gives your dog the best chance of a full recovery. Always keep chocolate out of reach.
It is strongly recommended that dogs are restrained in the car for their safety and yours. Unrestrained dogs can distract the driver and are at higher risk of injury in an accident. A seatbelt harness, crate or car barrier can help keep them secure. Many areas also have laws about safely securing dogs in vehicles, so it is a safety and legal concern.
No. Grapes, sultanas and raisins are toxic to dogs and can cause kidney failure. Even small amounts may lead to serious health problems. Signs include vomiting, diarrhoea, lethargy and loss of appetite. If your dog eats grapes, sultanas or raisins, contact your vet immediately. It is safest to keep them completely away from your dog.
To keep your dog cool in summer, provide plenty of fresh water and shade, and avoid exercise during the hottest part of the day. Keeping them indoors on very hot days is often best. Cooling mats, damp towels or sprays can also help. Regular grooming supports air flow through the coat. Never leave your dog in a parked car, even for a short time, as temperatures can rise quickly and lead to heatstroke.
Common foods that are toxic to dogs include chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, alcohol and xylitol (an artificial sweetener). These can cause serious health issues like liver damage, kidney failure or digestive problems. Other harmful foods include cooked bones, certain nuts and avocados. Keep these well out of reach and avoid giving your dog anything not specifically made for pets. If your dog eats something you’re worried about, contact your vet immediately.
Many common plants can be harmful to dogs, including lilies, azaleas, daffodils and oleander. Rhododendrons, foxgloves and poinsettias are also risky. These plants can cause symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhoea, drooling or, in severe cases, organ failure. If your dog eats a toxic plant, seek veterinary care immediately. Keep unsafe plants out of reach or choose pet-safe varieties. If you are unsure whether a plant is safe, check with your vet.
Chocolate is toxic to dogs because it contains ingredients that they can’t metabolise, like theobromine and caffeine. Even small amounts can cause vomiting or diarrhoea, while larger amounts can lead to a fast heart rate, tremors or seizures. The effects will depend on the size of your dog and the type and quantity of chocolate they’ve eaten. Our chocolate toxicity calculator can help you work out whether your dog has eaten a dangerous amount. If you suspect your dog has eaten any amount of chocolate, contact your vet straight away. Early treatment gives your dog the best chance of a full recovery. Always keep chocolate out of reach.
It is strongly recommended that dogs are restrained in the car for their safety and yours. Unrestrained dogs can distract the driver and are at higher risk of injury in an accident. A seatbelt harness, crate or car barrier can help keep them secure. Many areas also have laws about safely securing dogs in vehicles, so it is a safety and legal concern.
No. Grapes, sultanas and raisins are toxic to dogs and can cause kidney failure. Even small amounts may lead to serious health problems. Signs include vomiting, diarrhoea, lethargy and loss of appetite. If your dog eats grapes, sultanas or raisins, contact your vet immediately. It is safest to keep them completely away from your dog.
To keep your dog cool in summer, provide plenty of fresh water and shade, and avoid exercise during the hottest part of the day. Keeping them indoors on very hot days is often best. Cooling mats, damp towels or sprays can also help. Regular grooming supports air flow through the coat. Never leave your dog in a parked car, even for a short time, as temperatures can rise quickly and lead to heatstroke.
Still scratching your head?
Still scratching your head?
Pet safety starts with the right advice. Whether it’s about puppy proofing, household hazards or what to do when your pooch has eaten something they shouldn’t, get in touch with your vet.
Personalised advice.Straight to your inbox.
More ways to keep your dog healthy
More ways to keep your dog healthy
Check out vet-approved advice on dog safety, nutrition, parasite protection and more – because every tail-wag starts with good care.
The best diet for dogs at every age Dogs have different dietary needs at each life stage. From puppyhood to golden...
Seasonal and everyday safety Seasonal and everyday safety Explore safety tips for summer heat, car travel, toxic foods, plants and more, so you can...
Quiz: Find your pawfect match Big, small, fluffy or fearless? Answer these 10 quick questions to reveal your ideal fur-mate. Take...
Your guide to dog dental care Good dental care is so important for your dog’s overall health. From brushing hacks to spotting...
How to protect your dog from parasites Parasites may be small, but they can cause big problems if they slip under the...
The ultimate dog grooming guide Grooming your pooch is essential. From nail trimming to bathing, this guide breaks down everything you need...
Puppy training and early learning Puppy training and early learning Practical advice and expert guidance to help you manage behaviour, avoid mistakes, and build...
The best diet for dogs at every age Dogs have different dietary needs at each life stage. From puppyhood to golden...
Seasonal and everyday safety Seasonal and everyday safety Explore safety tips for summer heat, car travel, toxic foods, plants and more, so you can...
Quiz: Find your pawfect match Big, small, fluffy or fearless? Answer these 10 quick questions to reveal your ideal fur-mate. Take...
Your guide to dog dental care Good dental care is so important for your dog’s overall health. From brushing hacks to spotting...
How to protect your dog from parasites Parasites may be small, but they can cause big problems if they slip under the...
The ultimate dog grooming guide Grooming your pooch is essential. From nail trimming to bathing, this guide breaks down everything you need...
Puppy training and early learning Puppy training and early learning Practical advice and expert guidance to help you manage behaviour, avoid mistakes, and build...
