Keeping Pets Safe During the Holidays

The holidays are here, and with all the joy comes a little chaos. Have you ever turned your back for just a moment only to find your pet chewing on a string of lights or sniffing suspiciously at the discarded wrappers near the chocolate stash? Or finished decorating your tree, only to hear a CRASH and see your cat zooming to the next room? It’s stressful when the excitement of the season creates unexpected hazards for your animal. Knowing the seasonal risks- like chocolate, tinsel, candles, and electrical cords- and being prepared means you can relax and truly enjoy a worry-free celebration with your whole family.

At Mission Veterinary Clinic, we understand that life with pets can be unpredictable- especially during the holidays. Our AAHA-accredited hospital provides emergency and urgent care every day, ensuring that when care can’t wait, your pet always has a place to turn. Through preventive education, routine wellness care, and a compassionate triage system, we’re dedicated to helping families keep their dogs and cats safe, happy, and healthy all season long.

The Joy- and Hidden Risks- of Holiday Celebrations

Decorating, baking, and gathering with loved ones are hallmarks of the holidays- but they can also introduce unexpected dangers for curious pets. Many owners don’t realize how quickly a small accident can escalate into a medical emergency. Keeping safety in mind during the excitement ensures everyone enjoys the festivities together.

Simple holiday pet-safety tips– like pet-proofing your décor and securing tempting foods- go a long way in preventing accidents. Our team recommends scheduling a preventive wellness exam before the holidays to discuss your pet’s unique risks and behaviors, ensuring they’re ready for the fun to come.

Common Holiday Hazards for Pets

Decorations and Electrical Dangers

Tinsel, ribbon, and ornaments may look magical, but they can be dangerous if chewed or swallowed. Cats are often obsessed with tinsel, which can easily cause a blockage of their intestines which requires surgery to treat. Shards from broken glass ornaments can injure paws or mouths, while electrical cords pose a risk of burns or shocks. Battery-operated decorations can also leak corrosive chemicals if punctured. Secure décor, block access to Christmas trees, and keep fragile items out of reach to prevent curious paws from exploring.

Don’t forget candles- flames can easily catch whiskers or tails, and spilled wax can cause burns. A wagging tail can knock a candle onto a tree, causing a major fire risk. Choose flameless candles for a safer, cozy glow. Even snow globes can be risky, as some contain toxic antifreeze that is deadly if ingested.

Toxic Plants

Festive plants like poinsettias, holly, lilies, and mistletoe are classic holiday decorations, but many are harmful if ingested. The toxic and non-toxic plants list from the ASPCA is a great resource to help you identify safe alternatives. Silk or pet-friendly versions can add holiday cheer without the risk.

Even seemingly harmless greenery like pine needles can irritate the mouth and stomach, while tree water may contain fertilizers or bacteria. Cover the water reservoir and vacuum regularly to remove fallen needles before they’re tasted.

Festive Foods

Rich holiday meals and desserts may smell irresistible to pets, but many contain dangerous ingredients. Chocolate, grapes, raisins, alcohol, and sugar free candy containing xylitol can be deadly. Even unbaked dough can cause severe illness. Fatty table scraps can trigger painful digestive inflammation called pancreatitis. If you’re having a feast, consider baby-gating your kitchen to prevent pets from accessing your countertops.

If your pet consumes something harmful, consult poison control for pets immediately, or call our team for urgent evaluation. Keep trash cans secured, monitor tables and counter tops that are full of snacks, and make sure your guests know not to slip treats to your pets.

Holiday Gatherings: Keeping the Party Pet-Friendly

The holidays can be loud, busy, and overwhelming for pets used to a quieter home. Help them stay calm and comfortable with a few simple adjustments:

  • Set up a quiet retreat with their bed, toys, and water bowl.
  • Maintain consistent feeding and walking routines.
  • Offer enrichment activities or calming pheromone sprays.
  • Remind guests- especially children- not to disturb resting pets.

Understanding how to recognize signs of anxiety– like pacing, panting, or hiding- can help prevent behavioral issues or escape attempts during the busiest time of year. Make sure your pet’s microchip is up to date- guests coming in and out increases the risk of pets darting out the door.

If your pet is nervous, consider background music or white noise to soften unfamiliar sounds. Don’t force your pet to be a part of the festivities if they are overwhelmed. Busy homes can heighten stress for anxious animals. Our team can also recommend behavior management strategies for pets prone to anxiety during large events.

Holiday Treats and Gift Safety

Celebrate your pet with holiday fun- but safely! Instead of table scraps, consider healthy, pet-safe holiday treats or long-lasting chews- the Veterinary Oral Health Council has a great list of chews that are safe and great for dental care. While those giant bones or red and green dyed rawhides seem fun, the risk of fractured teeth and intestinal blockages aren’t worth it.

Some pets will keep a stuffed toy for life, while others will rip out the stuffing and swallow it in a blink. Avoid buying toys that your pet will shred or consume- knowing your pet’s chewing and play style should guide your shopping choices. If you’re shopping for your pet, check out this guide to pet-safe holiday gifts for ideas that balance fun and function. You can even try DIY toys using materials you already have at home. For inspiration, explore fun ways to include your pet in the festivities– from homemade treats to personalized stockings.

Always supervise play with new toys, and check labels for small parts that could break off and be swallowed. A few thoughtful choices can make your pet’s holiday both fun and safe.

Traveling with Pets During the Holidays

Whether you’re driving to visit family or flying across the country, planning ahead ensures your pet’s comfort and safety on the road.

  • Use crash-tested carriers or seatbelt harnesses.
  • Keep microchip and ID tag information up to date.
  • Pack medications, food, and familiar bedding.
  • Avoid leaving pets unattended in vehicles.

Follow stress-free holiday travel with pets tips for smooth and comfortable trips. If your pet has travel anxiety, consider scheduling a wellness consultation before your trip to discuss calming options or motion sickness medication. Also, research nearby veterinary hospitals at your destination, just in case unexpected issues arise.

Emergency Preparedness During the Holidays

Emergencies don’t take holidays off- and neither do we. At Mission Veterinary Clinic, our emergency and urgent care services are available every day of the week for pets who need immediate attention. We recommend every family prepare a simple pet emergency kit with essentials like food, water, medications, and your veterinarian’s contact information.

Be aware of warning signs such as vomiting, bloat, lethargy, or respiratory distress. When these symptoms appear, time is critical. Our triage-based walk-in system prioritizes pets needing life-saving treatment, ensuring each patient receives the fastest possible care. And remember- always call ahead if you suspect an emergency, as capacity limits can vary during peak holiday hours.

Celebrating Safely with the Ones You Love

A joyful holiday season is one where everyone- two- and four-legged alike- feels safe and included. By taking a few extra precautions and keeping common hazards in mind, you can prevent emergencies and keep your celebration stress-free.

If you have questions about your pet’s safety, schedule a visit with our team or contact us for personalized guidance. Whether it’s a preventive exam or a sudden emergency, you can count on Mission Veterinary Clinic for skilled, compassionate care- any day, any hour, whenever your pet needs it most.