Balancing Fun and Safety for Pets over the Holidays

Header Photo: Dr. Clayton Siegle and Rhys getting into the Holiday spirit!

The winter holidays are a time to celebrate and create joyful memories—and your pets can be part of the fun! However, holiday gatherings and decorations also bring potential hazards. At Cascade Hospital for Animals and Breton Village Animal Clinic, our priority is to help include your pets in the festivities while keeping them safe.

Festive Fun!

The holiday season offers wonderful opportunities to create special memories with your furry family members. Consider dressing your pets in adorable festive collars, bandanas, or cozy sweaters for memorable family photos, making sure any attire is comfortable and safe for them to wear. You can also make the season extra special by baking pet-friendly holiday treats, being careful to avoid dangerous ingredients like chocolate, xylitol, and nutmeg that could harm your animals.

Gift-giving can be a delightful experience for pets too. Fill a special stocking with their favorite toys, treats, and chewables, and enjoy the excitement of watching them unwrap and explore their presents. This can become a cherished holiday tradition that strengthens your bond. For pets who love the outdoors, snowy days provide fantastic opportunities for play. If your pet enjoys cold weather, spend time together building snow forts or playing fetch, just remembering to dry them off and warm them up afterward to prevent chills.

When the weather keeps you inside, interactive games can keep your pets entertained and engaged. Holiday-themed puzzle toys or indoor games can provide mental stimulation and prevent boredom, ensuring that your pets remain happy and active during the festive season. These activities not only provide fun but also help maintain your pet's physical and mental well-being during what can sometimes be a stressful time of year.

Holiday Concerns and Dangers

A joyful season including holidays of Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa and others present numerous potential hazards for pets that require careful attention and proactive management.

Decorations and greenery can be particularly dangerous, with seemingly festive plants posing significant health risks. Holly and mistletoe are highly toxic to pets, potentially causing severe digestive issues and other serious symptoms. Poinsettias, while less toxic, can still irritate your pet's mouth and stomach. Even real Christmas trees can create problems, as pine needles can shed and potentially puncture your pet's intestines if ingested. Pet owners should be vigilant about keeping decorations out of reach and considering pet-safe alternatives.

Holiday foods present another critical area of concern for pet safety. Table scraps can be incredibly dangerous, especially dishes containing chocolate, onions, garlic, or high-fat ingredients. Poultry bones are particularly risky, as they can splinter and cause serious internal injuries. To protect your pets, it's crucial to secure trash cans and prevent them from scavenging leftovers, no matter how tempting the food might seem to them.

Crowded gatherings can be overwhelming for pets, creating additional stress and potential risks. During holiday parties and family gatherings, it's essential to provide a quiet, safe space where pets can retreat and relax. Pay extra attention during arrivals and departures to prevent accidental escapes, as open doors and excited guests can create opportunities for pets to slip away unnoticed.

Wrapping paper and gift materials pose their own set of dangers. Strings, ribbons, and plastic wrap can become choking hazards or cause intestinal blockages if ingested. Prompt disposal of these items is critical to preventing potential emergencies. Similarly, holiday lighting and candles require careful management. Ensure candles and string lights are kept out of your pet's reach to avoid burns or electrical shocks. Consider using battery-operated candles as a safer alternative that still provides festive ambiance.

By staying aware of these potential hazards and taking proactive steps to mitigate risks, pet owners can ensure a safe and enjoyable holiday season for their beloved animal companions. Careful supervision, creating safe spaces, and being mindful of potential dangers will help keep pets healthy and happy throughout the festivities.

Tips for a Joyful Holiday Season

Maintaining your pet’s routine during the holidays is key to keeping them happy and stress-free. Stick to their regular feeding, walking, and playtime schedules as much as possible, even amid the festive chaos. If gatherings get overwhelming, provide a safe, quiet space with their bed, favorite toys, and water where they can relax. For those traveling with pets, ensure you pack all their essentials—including food, water, medications, and comfort items—and plan for frequent breaks to keep them comfortable and at ease.

By including your pets in holiday plans and taking necessary precautions, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable season for the entire family. Pay attention to their comfort, watch for signs of stress, and don't hesitate to contact your veterinarian if you have concerns.

Want to make your pet's holiday extra special? Check out our Holiday Pet Gift Guide for safe ideas to fill the stockings. Stop by and pick some up for your furry family members.

From all of us at Cascade Hospital for Animals and Breton Village Animal Clinic, we wish you and yours a joyful and safe holiday season!