Holiday Harmony: Pet Safety Tips for a Stress-Free Season

The holidays bring warmth, joy, and celebration, but for pets, they can also introduce unexpected risks. At Tender Touch Animal Hospital in Kingston, WA, we want to ensure you and your pet have a safe and enjoyable holiday season. Below, we’ll cover common holiday hazards for pets, provide tips for preventing accidents, and share behavioral advice to keep pets and guests safe.

1. Food Hazards

During the holidays, delicious foods are everywhere, but many are toxic or harmful to pets. To avoid an emergency:

  • Avoid Toxic Foods: Chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, and certain spices are toxic to pets. Keep dishes that contain these ingredients out of reach, and be cautious with leftovers.
  • Beware of Fatty Foods: High-fat foods like turkey skin and gravies can lead to pancreatitis in pets, a painful and potentially serious condition. If you want to treat your pet, stick to pet-safe options like small amounts of plain, cooked vegetables.
  • Ask Guests Not to Feed Pets: Guests might not know which foods are safe for pets. Politely inform them not to give any treats or leftovers to your pet, and provide a designated pet treat jar if they want to share a safe treat.

For more detailed information on food hazards, refer to this article from Tufts on holiday foods to avoid.

2. Decorations and Ornaments

Decorative items bring festive cheer but can present significant risks to pets.

  • Avoid Tinsel and Ribbon: Cats, especially, are drawn to tinsel and ribbon, but ingesting these materials can cause severe intestinal blockages.
  • Secure Christmas Trees: A climbing or curious pet can easily knock over a tree. Anchoring the tree to the wall can prevent accidents. Place delicate ornaments higher up, and consider shatterproof ornaments.
  • Skip Candles and Potpourri: Pets may brush against candles, risking burns or fire. Electric candles are a safer option. Liquid potpourri is also harmful if ingested and should be kept out of reach.

3. Plants to Avoid

Some seasonal plants can be dangerous for pets:

  • Poinsettias: Though not highly toxic, poinsettias can cause mild irritation if ingested.
  • Mistletoe and Holly: These can be more harmful, causing stomach upset and, in severe cases, cardiovascular issues.
  • Lilies: Extremely toxic to cats, lilies can cause kidney failure. If you have cats, consider alternative flowers for the holidays.

More plant-related toxicity details can be found at Pet Poison Helpline, which offers a full list of holiday plants to avoid.

4. Behavioral Concerns: Training Tips for Holiday Manners

Alongside environmental risks, pets can also experience stress and excitement during the holidays. Addressing and preventing behavioral issues can help keep everyone calm and safe.

  • Counter-Surfing: Pets, particularly dogs, might be tempted by food left on counters or tables. Training them not to “counter-surf” can prevent accidental ingestion of dangerous foods. Start by keeping food out of reach and using commands like “leave it” or “off” to discourage this behavior.
  • Door-Dashing: The holiday season means more guests, increasing the chance your pet might slip out the door. Practice recall commands like “come” or “stay,” and consider creating a designated pet area during gatherings.
  • Educating Guests: Some guests- especially kids- might not know pet etiquette or body language. Politely ask guests not to force an interaction, follow or chase pets, or let pets out unsupervised. Inform guests if your pet has any triggers or fears to help prevent any problems before they start.
  • Provide a Safe Space: Many pets feel overwhelmed by the noise and activity of holiday gatherings. Designating a quiet room or secluded area as their safe space can help them feel secure. This space should include comfortable bedding, favorite toys, and access to water. Consider using a baby gate or closing the door to give your pet a calm retreat away from the commotion.

If you need support with behavior training, the Tender Touch Animal Hospital team can recommend resources to address specific training needs.

5. Holiday Travel with Pets

Whether you’re traveling with your pet or boarding them, planning ahead is key to a stress-free experience.

  • Travel Safety: Secure pets in a carrier or harness while driving, and never leave them unattended in a vehicle. Keep familiar items like toys or blankets with your pet to reduce anxiety.
  • Pet Identification: If you’re visiting family or friends, make sure your pet has a collar with updated identification tags. Microchipping is vital as a backup if they slip out the door- be sure your microchip information is up to date.
  • Boarding Options: Boarding can be a safer option than leaving pets home alone. At Tender Touch Animal Hospital, we can help guide you to reputable boarding facilities or advise on keeping your pet comfortable at home.

6. Fireworks and Loud Noises

New Year’s Eve and other festivities often include fireworks, which can be frightening for pets.

  • Create a Safe Zone: Designate a quiet space in your home where your pet can retreat during noisy celebrations. Keep the room dimly lit, play soothing music, or use white noise to help mask loud sounds.
  • Calm Training Techniques: Desensitizing pets to loud noises over time can reduce their anxiety. Using treats, positive reinforcement, and gradual exposure to recordings of fireworks can help them feel less fearful.
  • Consult a Veterinarian: For pets with severe noise anxiety, consult with a veterinarian about anti-anxiety aids or medications that can help keep your pet calm.

The holidays should be a time of joy for the whole family, including your pet. By taking precautions, you can ensure a safe, low-stress season. For any holiday-related questions or concerns, reach out to our team at Tender Touch Animal Hospital, where we’re here to help you and your pet enjoy a safe and joyful holiday season.