Holiday tips!

As the holiday season approaches, it’s time for festive decorations, delicious meals, and joyful gatherings. Amidst the excitement, it’s important to consider the safety of our furry friends. Holiday pet safety tips are essential to ensure your pets remain healthy and happy during this busy time. From the dangers of tinsel and toxic plants to the risks posed by rich holiday foods, being informed can prevent accidents and emergencies. Did you know that veterinary clinics often report a surge in pet emergencies during the holidays? Many of these incidents are preventable with a bit of foresight and planning. In “Holiday Tips!”, we’ll provide evidence-based advice on how to protect your pets from common holiday hazards. By following these holiday pet safety tips, you can enjoy the season knowing your pets are safe and content.

Please do not feed the dog (or cat)!

Even if Buster stares at you with big, sad eyes, be strong, and give him a toy to nibble on instead of a turkey bone or food scraps. Chewing on bones can cause splinters resulting in serious injuries, while chocolate and other sweets are a big NO NO! For more detailed information on the dangers of chocolate for dogs, check out our article on Your Dog and Chocolate. Not to mention how overindulging on holiday goodies can give your furry friend acute indigestion. So share the love this holiday season, but not the buffet. And call us if your pet accidentally chows down on some holiday treats!

Paws off the tinsel

Holiday pet safety tips are essential to consider, especially if your cat has a penchant for shiny objects. While it’s common for cats to be attracted to tree decorations, these can pose serious hazards. For instance, angel hair tinsel, though captivating, can obstruct your cat’s digestive system if ingested, potentially requiring surgical removal. To keep your beloved feline safe during the holidays, opt for cat-safe toys and steer clear of tinsel in your decorations. If you’re looking for toy recommendations that ensure your cat’s safety and enjoyment, feel free to reach out to us!

Not a party animal

Holiday gatherings can be stressful for your pet! Give your cat or dog a safe and quiet place to escape from the noise, strangers and unusual odours, and make sure your furry bestie has a good time too. Natural supplements can also help your pet to cope with stressful events. Plan ahead and ask us about your options today!

Curiosity killed the cat

To ensure your pet’s well-being during the festive season, it’s crucial to prioritize holiday pet safety tips by keeping holiday decorations away from curious paws and noses. Many common holiday plants, including lilies, mistletoe, poinsettias, and hollies, pose serious risks to dogs and cats if ingested. Should you notice any signs that your pet may have consumed these toxic plants, reach out to our Emergency Veterinary Care without delay. We are prepared to provide prompt and effective care to safeguard your pet’s health.

Holiday Pet Safety Tips: Comprehensive 2025 Guide for Pet Protection During Festivities

How should pets be protected from electrical hazards (wires, lights)?

To protect pets from electrical hazards like wires and lights, ensure all cords are securely hidden or out of reach. Pets may chew on exposed wires, risking electrical shock or burns. Using cord protectors or concealing wires behind furniture can reduce this temptation. Unplugging decorative lights when not supervised can prevent accidents. Providing safe toys can divert attention away from hazardous items. Additionally, applying pet-safe deterrent sprays on cords can discourage chewing. Regularly inspecting electrical decorations for damage and supervising pets around them helps maintain a safe environment.

What training classes might help prepare for holiday situations?

Obedience and behavior training classes can help prepare pets for holiday situations. These classes teach commands like ‘leave it’ or ‘stay,’ preventing dogs and cats from ingesting harmful foods or decorations. Socialization classes reduce anxiety during gatherings by acclimating pets to new people and environments. Stress management training equips pets with coping mechanisms for noisy or crowded settings. Enrolling your pet in these classes before the holidays promotes safety and well-being during festive activities, ensuring a happier experience for both you and your furry friend.

How can you identify signs of stress in pets during celebrations?

During festive gatherings, pets may show stress through unusual behaviors such as hiding, excessive panting, or shaking. A decrease in appetite or a sudden change in activity levels can also indicate discomfort. Additionally, cats and dogs might vocalize more than usual or display aggression towards humans and other animals. To ensure their well-being, observe any deviations from their normal demeanor and provide them with a calm retreat away from the noise and bustle of celebrations.

How should guests be informed about pets in advance?

When hosting holiday gatherings, it’s advisable to inform guests beforehand about your pet’s needs and any house rules regarding interactions with them. Explain that while pets may be present, feeding them table scraps or holiday treats can be harmful. Highlight the availability of specific pet-safe toys and treats, and mention that the pet may need space or a quiet retreat from the party atmosphere. This proactive communication helps ensure the safety and comfort of your pets and prevents any unintentional mishaps during festivities.

How can Christmas trees be secured to prevent tipping?

To prevent Christmas trees from tipping and posing a hazard to pets, ensure the tree base is sturdy and well-balanced. Choose a tree stand with a wide, heavy base for added stability. Secure the tree to a wall or ceiling using strong hooks and fishing line or clear string, which provides extra support without being too visible. Position the tree in a corner if possible to reduce the risk of tipping from pets bumping into it. Avoid placing pet attractants like food-based ornaments or tinsel within reach to discourage pets from playing with or pulling on the tree.

Contact us, your local animal hospital in Peterborough, ON!