Our December newsletter!

 Hello everyone, and welcome to our December newsletter – the last newsletter of an amazing 2025!

As we step into the heart of winter and the festive season draws near, we at The Woodbridge Vets hope you and your pets are keeping warm, joyful, and ready for all the magic this time of year brings. December is a month filled with celebration, reflection, and togetherness - and as the temperature drops, it’s the perfect moment to make sure our furry family members are safe, healthy, and cosy.

National Christmas Tree Safety Day for Pets: Keep Christmas Merry and Safe

As we decorate our homes for Christmas, it’s easy to forget that festive decorations can pose hidden risks to our furry friends. National Christmas Tree Safety Day serves as an important reminder to ensure our pets stay safe during the holiday season. With just a few simple precautions, you can create a festive atmosphere while keeping your pets happy and healthy.

Tree Tips for a Pet-Safe Holiday

1. Choose the right location

Place your Christmas tree in a secure corner, away from furniture your pets might use as a jumping-off point. This helps prevent your tree from toppling and keeps decorations safely out of reach.

2. Anchor your tree securely

Both cats and dogs are known for their playful nature, so it’s essential to stabilise your tree. Use fishing wire or a tree strap to secure it to the wall or ceiling. A sturdy base is also key to preventing accidental falls.

3. Be cautious of tree water

The water in your tree stand may contain chemicals, such as preservatives, that can be harmful to pets if ingested. Always cover the tree’s water reservoir or opt for a pet-safe tree stand.

4. Skip toxic plants

Poinsettias, holly, mistletoe, and certain types of pine needles can be harmful to pets. If you’re using real greenery, be sure to keep it out of reach or consider artificial alternatives.

 Decorate with Pets in Mind

5. Avoid delicate or tempting ornaments

Keep fragile glass ornaments on higher branches where pets can’t reach. Consider using soft, non-breakable decorations for lower branches, and steer clear of anything too shiny or with dangling ribbons that might catch your pet’s eye.

6. Tinsel is a no-go

Tinsel may look beautiful, but it can be dangerous if swallowed, especially for cats. If ingested, it can lead to digestive issues or even blockages. Stick to ribbon or garland instead.

7. Mind the lights and cords

Pets may be curious about lights or cords, which can lead to chewing or even electrical shocks. Use cord protectors, keep wires well out of reach, and turn off the lights when you’re not around. 

Other Holiday Hazards to Watch For

• Gift wrapping hazards: Ribbons and gift wrap can be tempting chew toys. Keep presents stored safely away from your pets.

• Scented decorations: Many Christmas decorations contain essential oils or fragrances that can irritate pets’ respiratory systems or upset their stomachs.

• Pine needles (real or fake): Pine needles, even when artificial, can cause oral irritation or digestive problems if ingested.

 A Safe Holiday is a Happy Holiday 

Creating a pet-friendly Christmas environment ensures everyone can enjoy the festive season together. A little extra planning goes a long way to keep your pets safe, happy, and healthy - and your Christmas tree standing tall.

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A Heartfelt Thank You to Our Wonderful Clients

As the Christmas season approaches, we want to take a moment to express our sincere gratitude to each and every one of our clients. This year has been a fantastic journey, and none of it would have been possible without your continued support and trust in our services.

From all of us at The Woodbridge Vets, we want to thank you for allowing us to be a part of your pet's care. Whether it's been a routine check-up, an emergency visit, or simply providing advice and support, your loyalty means the world to us.

Celebrating The Woodbridge Vets Team

We are incredibly proud of the dedicated, passionate, and hard-working team that makes The Woodbridge Vets a place where pets receive the best possible care. Each team member plays an integral role in ensuring your pets are healthy, happy, and well looked after. 

We are so fortunate to have such a compassionate, skilled team dedicated to providing excellent care for your pets. This year, we’ve laughed, learned, and shared countless special moments with your furry companions, and we can’t wait for more of those happy experiences in the years to come.

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