Our latest Dog Days of Christmas looks at the hidden dangers of wrappings, in particular silica gel packs and those tiny plastic wrappings that seem so common nowadays.
Why today’s a big day
Today is a momentous day.
I’m putting my tree and decorations up, wrapping presents for my Academy members and our wonderful Devotees – and Himself and I are getting our Covid boosters.
Which is why I want to get the decorations up and wrap some presents today, in case I feel under the weather tomorrow.
My study is currently crammed with boxes, bags and envelopes of different kinds. I’ll be able to recycle most of the wrapping, but some things I need to be careful with – and keep Gus away from.
Excessive Christmas packaging is so common nowadays
Many things nowadays seem to come with those tiny silica gel sachets. I think they’re added to prevent any moisture from damaging the contents, but I do wonder if they are really necessary sometimes. These small sachets are commonly found in the packaging of items
such as new shoes, electrical items, or handbags.
Silica gel is non-toxic, but the sachet is often labelled “do not eat”, not because it is poisonous, but because it is not a food item and therefore should not be eaten. Although silica gel sachets are not poisonous to dogs, they could still cause a dangerous obstruction in the gut, so make sure you dispose of them carefully.
I’ve also bought a few small knick-knacks to add to Christmas parcels as little extras. These often come in tiny plastic wrappings or have small parts. Your dog may be attracted to these tiny but fascinating (to them) fragments, especially if they come in garish colours. If swallowed they may cause a potentially dangerous blockage in your dog’s gut, so keep your wrapping area tidy to avoid this potential hazard.
Right, I’m off to look out the decorations.
Wrap safely!
Keep training and stay safe,
Carol
