Christmas is a time for generosity, and the ManxSPCA has been given a wonderful early gift of a new roof for the small animals unit’s conservatory, replacing the old plastic one which used to make the room too hot in summer and too cold and draughty in winter.

The new felt roof was paid for by the owners of Thumper Stone, a diminutive little rabbit who spent two years at the ManxSPCA because he was so grumpy.

Several years on, Thumper is a changed rabbit. He is affectionate and funny, and absolutely loves being the centre of attention.

He spends his holidays in the small animals unit when his owners are abroad, and because they refer to him as ’HRH’ we regard his visits as royal ones, and the conservatory is now called ’Thumper’s Palace’.

Thumper is an indoor rabbit, and so he will need to be kept safe, like all our pets, from the seasonal hazards that Christmas brings.

Here are some guidelines for you to follow.

Plants: although the toxicity of the poinsettia has often been exaggerated it can cause irritation to the mouth and stomach if it’s ingested, as can holly and mistletoe berries.

Pine needles can also damage the delicate lining of the oesophagus, and ivy leaves can cause skin irritation.

Silica gel: this often comes in little white sachets and is found in the packaging of clothes, electrical goods and other gifts we might be wrapping (and then unwrapping) for Christmas.

Make sure you dispose of the sachets in a bin so that your pet isn’t tempted to play with them and ingest the gel, which will cause a stomach upset.

Christmas decorations: tinsel can be irresistible to a playful pet, but it may obstruct the stomach if it’s swallowed; and glass and plastic baubles can break in an animal’s mouth and cause considerable damage.

Cigarettes: nicotine is toxic if ingested in sufficient quantity and so it’s important to keep ashtrays out of reach. Nicotine replacement patches and e-cigarette refills can also pose a risk.

Alcohol: pets are naturally inquisitive and may help themselves to any unattended alcohol left lying around over the festive period, and so make sure it is always out of their reach. Too much alcohol can cause low blood sugar and lead to an animal becoming comatose.

The following foods are particularly hazardous for dogs:

Chocolate - the chemical theobromine is found in chocolate and it is toxic to dogs. The darker the chocolate the more potent the levels of theobromine become - with baker’s chocolate being the most dangerous. Avoid putting any chocolate on or under the Christmas tree, even if it’s sealed in foil or in a box, and wrapped with paper, because most dogs will succumb to temptation.

Grapes and their dried products (currants, sultanas and raisins) - these are also toxic to dogs and they are found in so many Christmas treats, from puddings to pies, and ingestion of even a small quantity can cause severe kidney failure.

Onions, garlic, leeks and chives - these vegetables are poisonous for dogs whether cooked or uncooked, but their effects may not be noticed straight away because they cause anaemia which may take several days to become apparent.

If you suspect your pet has been poisoned or has ingested something harmful (symptoms include vomiting, excess salivation, panting, and either extreme restlessness or lethargy) then you need to seek emergency advice from your veterinarian. Prompt action will save your pet’s life but, as the saying goes, prevention is better than cure.