The island’s only registered canine nutritionist has offered advice on how to keep dogs safe this Christmas.

Pamela Goldie, owner of Manx Canine Cuisine, has prepared a list of do’s and don’t’s for pet owners.

Mrs Goldie said: ’All dogs can benefit from a little healthy, fresh food added into their meal. Great festive options include turkey, boiled or steamed greens, carrot, and a few fresh or frozen cranberries. Rules of thumb are to keep the quantities appropriate to the size of your dog, watch out for hidden salt and sugar and if in doubt about a food double check its suitability before feeding.’

She has also warned about the dangers of many of our Christmas favourites.

She said: ’Christmas pudding contains raisins and sultanas that are a no no for dogs. Grapes on the cheeseboard are also a risk.

’From selection boxes to Christmas decorations, chocolate is everywhere at Christmas.

’Delicious for us, but dangerous to our dogs, the higher the cocoa content, the more damage it can cause.’

She added: ’Keep the nut bowl out of reach.

’Nut shells can cause intestinal blockages and some varieties, like Macadamia nuts, are poisonous to dogs.

’Onions feature in many festive recipes but even a little can cause an upset stomach for your dog and in larger quantities could be fatal to a smaller breed.’

And then there’s alcohol.

Mrs Goldie said: ’When the drinks are flowing, a little lap of beer for your pup might seem like harmless fun but the consequences for your dog can be unpleasant and harmful.’

She added that whilst well meaning guests to your home may want to treat your dog, they should check with you before feeding your pet to make sure the food and quantity is safe.

She said: ’Ask guests to keep plates and drinks out of reach when unattended.

’Keep an eye out for people leaving small objects like bouncy balls from crackers lying around that could be swallowed and cause intestinal blockages.’