There are a few things we can do to make our animals' lives safer over the holiday period.

If you are travelling with your animals over the holiday period, consider the risk of tick paralysis.

Favourable weather conditions around coastal areas means there is record numbers of ticks found in these areas and your cat or dog could be susceptible to paralysis ticks.

These ticks may also travel with you on the return home so, if your dog or cat gets sick in the three weeks after you arrive home, please inform the vet if you have been away.

Ask us now about NEXGARD and the BRAVECTO tick preventions.

Heartworm is another fatal disease which can be picked up in both coastal areas as well as along the inland river systems. Just one bite from an infected mosquito is all it takes.

You can choose a once a year injections to prevent heartworm or you may decide tablets or spots on are a better option for your pet whilst on holidays.

If you are leaving your furry family members in kennels over the holidays, ensure they are vaccinated against Kennel or Canine Cough (same as whooping cough in children).

Kennel owners ensure the highest standards for those in their care by insisting on current and complete vaccinations.

It isn't easy finding a spot over Christmas so don't risk being turned away because you haven't done the right thing.

We see a lot of Liliums in our gardens and vases at this time of year.

This group of flowers is highly toxic to cats- just a lick of the pollen or the flower and they can die horribly.

So keep these flowers and your cats apart.

Christmas can spoilt if the pup eats the new child's toy, gets caught on the new fishing hook, gets in the way of the holiday shooter or accidentally escapes when friends and family come to visit.

Ensure your pets are microchipped if you are travelling- it is the best way to ensure your friend is found if they accidentally escape from the holiday house or caravan while you are far from home.

If you have changed addresses, make sure the council have your updated details on the microchipping register.

As far as Christmas dinner goes, well, moderation perhaps for all of us.

If you want to stear clear of the vets this holiday season, make sure your dog has;

1. No ham bones.

2. No ham fat.

3. No turkey bones.

4. Limited pudding.

Our Facebook site, https://www. facebook.com/blayneyvets, is running a competition at present with a $50 prize for cute Christmas themed photos of pets.

All purchases at the clinic between December 7 and December 23 will go in the running for a special Christmas present to go under the Christmas tree.