The holiday season is a time for joy, family gatherings, and festive celebrations — but it can also pose hidden risks for your pets. From decorations to seasonal treats, many common holiday items can be dangerous if not monitored carefully. Whether you have a playful pup or a curious cat, keeping your pets safe during the holidays should be a top priority. Here’s a complete guide to holiday safety for pets, so you can celebrate together without worry.
Keep Decorations Out of Reach
Holiday decorations like tinsel, ribbons, ornaments, and candles can be tempting for pets to chew, knock over, or ingest. Tinsel and ribbons can cause serious intestinal blockages if swallowed, while lit candles are a fire hazard. Place decorations where pets can’t reach them, or consider using pet-safe alternatives like felt or plush ornaments.
Protect Pets from Toxic Foods
Many holiday foods are toxic to pets, including chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, and alcohol. Rich foods and fatty leftovers can also cause upset stomachs or pancreatitis. Keep human treats out of reach and educate guests not to feed your pets. Offer pet-safe treats during gatherings to keep them included safely.
Create a Safe Space for Pets
With more visitors, noise, and activity, pets can become stressed or anxious. Provide a quiet, comfortable area with their bed, toys, and water where they can retreat when overwhelmed. This helps prevent stress-related behaviors like chewing, hiding, or excessive barking.
Keep Pets Visible During Holiday Preparations
Busy kitchens, wrapping stations, and parties can increase the risk of accidents. Keep pets out of high-traffic areas, and be mindful of hot stoves, open flames, and sharp objects. Supervision is especially important for curious cats and dogs who may explore underfoot.
Use Pet-Safe Holiday Plants
Seasonal plants like poinsettias, mistletoe, holly, and lilies are toxic to pets if ingested. Consider using artificial or pet-friendly alternatives. If you do have real plants, place them on high shelves or behind barriers.
Monitor Stress and Anxiety
Some pets get anxious with changes in routine, noise, or new people. Watch for signs of stress like pacing, drooling, trembling, or aggression. Calming strategies include soft music, familiar scents, chew toys, or pheromone sprays.
Keep Identification Updated
Holidays can increase the risk of pets getting lost due to doors opening frequently or outdoor festivities. Make sure your pet has an ID tag, microchip, or collar with current contact information. This simple step can be life-saving in emergencies.
Be Careful with Outdoor Decorations
Lights, wires, and small decorative objects can be chewed or tangled, causing injury or electrical hazards. Use protective covers, hide cords, and ensure any outdoor decorations are secured away from curious pets.
Travel Safety
If traveling with pets during the holidays, use secure carriers or seatbelts in vehicles. Keep them hydrated, avoid leaving them in hot or cold cars, and maintain familiar routines as much as possible.
Emergency Preparedness
Accidents can happen despite precautions. Keep your veterinarian’s contact info, local emergency clinic numbers, and a pet first-aid kit handy. Quick response can prevent minor accidents from turning serious.
Final Thoughts
The holidays are meant to be joyful for everyone — including your pets. By taking a few precautions, monitoring their environment, and keeping their needs in mind, you can ensure a safe, happy, and stress-free holiday season.
For pet-friendly products and tips to make the holidays safer and more enjoyable for your pets, explore our ProPetSet collection. From cozy beds to safe toys, we have everything to keep your furry friends happy and healthy this holiday season.