The holiday season is a time for family, fun, and festivities, but it can also bring unique
challenges and hazards for our furry friends. From festive foods to seasonal décor, it’s important
to ensure your pets are safe while you celebrate. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you
navigate the holiday season with your pets in mind.
Be Mindful of Holiday Foods
The holidays often revolve around delicious feasts, but not all foods are safe for pets. Many
holiday treats and table scraps can be harmful or even toxic to your furry friends. For instance,
chocolate contains theobromine, which is dangerous for dogs and cats, and sugar-free candies
with xylitol can be life-threatening. Rich and fatty foods, like turkey skin and gravy, may cause
digestive upset or pancreatitis, while poultry bones can splinter and lead to choking or internal
injuries. Even small amounts of alcohol can lead to severe health issues for pets.
Key Foods to Avoid:
● Chocolate and candies (especially sugar-free options with xylitol)
● Rich or fatty foods like gravy and turkey skin
● Poultry bones that can splinter
● Alcohol and caffeine
To keep your pets happy and healthy, offer them pet-safe treats instead. Plain, cooked turkey
meat, carrot sticks, or store-bought treats designed for pets are great alternatives to share in the
holiday spirit.
Secure Your Holiday Decorations
Holiday decorations bring cheer to your home, but they can also pose risks to your pets.
Christmas trees, for example, are a source of fascination for many pets, particularly cats.
Ensure your tree is secured to prevent it from tipping over, and avoid using tinsel, which can
cause serious intestinal blockages if ingested.
Other decorations, such as ornaments, can be hazardous if broken or chewed. Opt for
shatterproof ornaments and place them higher on the tree, out of your pet’s reach. Electrical
cords and holiday lights are another potential danger—chewing on them can result in burns or
electrocution. Use cord covers or tape cords securely to the wall.
Tips for Pet-Safe Decorations:
● Secure your tree to prevent tipping.
● Avoid tinsel and fragile ornaments.
● Cover or secure electrical cords to avoid chewing hazards.
● Keep toxic plants like poinsettias, mistletoe, and holly out of reach.
● Manage Gift Wrapping Supplies
Gift wrapping can be a fun and creative activity, but it’s important to keep wrapping materials out
of reach of curious pets. Ribbons and string, while festive, can cause intestinal blockages if
swallowed. Similarly, ingesting large amounts of wrapping paper or tape may lead to stomach
upset. When wrapping gifts, set up a pet-free zone to keep your furry friends safe. Be sure to promptly discard any scraps and keep supplies like scissors and tape away from your pets.
Create a Safe Space
The hustle and bustle of holiday gatherings can be overwhelming for pets. Loud noises,
unfamiliar faces, and increased activity in the home can cause stress. Creating a quiet, safe
space for your pet to retreat to can help them feel more secure. Set up a cozy area with a comfortable bed, blanket, and favorite toys in a quiet room. Make sure guests understand your house rules for interacting with your pet, such as not feeding them table scraps or ensuring doors and windows remain closed to prevent escapes.
Be Prepared for Weather Changes
Cold weather brings additional considerations, especially for pets that spend time outdoors.
Limit your pet’s time outside during extreme cold, particularly for short-haired breeds or small
animals that are more sensitive to the elements. When taking your dog for a walk, wipe their
paws afterward to remove salt or deicers that may cause irritation or be toxic if licked.
Cold Weather Tips:
● Limit outdoor time in freezing temperatures.
● Wipe paws after walks to remove salt or chemicals.
● Use a sweater or jacket for pets sensitive to cold.
● Ensure access to warm, dry shelter and fresh water.
● Travel Safely with Pets
If you’re traveling with your pet this holiday season, take steps to ensure their comfort and
safety. Use a crate or carrier during car rides to minimize distractions and protect your pet in
case of an accident. Pack essentials such as food, water, bowls, toys, and any medications your
pet may need. Before hitting the road, make sure your pet’s identification tags and microchip information are up to date. If you’re flying, research the airline’s pet policies and consult your veterinarian to confirm your pet is fit for travel.
Plan Ahead for Fireworks
New Year’s Eve fireworks can be a source of anxiety for many pets. To help your furry friend
stay calm, keep them indoors in a quiet, secure space. Playing calming music or white noise
can help drown out the sound of fireworks. If your pet experiences extreme anxiety, consult your veterinarian about potential calming aids or medications.
Know Your Emergency Contacts
Despite your best efforts, accidents can happen. It’s essential to be prepared by keeping a list of
emergency contacts, including your veterinarian, the nearest 24-hour emergency clinic and the
poison hotline (888) 426-4435. Familiarize yourself with common pet toxins and stock a pet
first-aid kit to address minor injuries or issues.
Conclusion
The holiday season is a wonderful time to create lasting memories with your loved ones,
including your pets. By taking a few precautions and planning ahead, you can ensure your furry
friends stay safe, healthy, and happy throughout the festivities. Whether it’s keeping an eye on
holiday foods, securing decorations, or preparing for winter weather, these tips will help you and
your pets enjoy a stress-free holiday season.
Here’s to a joyful and safe holiday season for you and your four-legged companions!
