A Season for Pet Safety

The holiday season is a time of joy, laughter, and celebration—but for our pets, it can also bring potential risks. From decorations and holiday treats to plants and gatherings, there are plenty of pet hazards to watch out for. Whether you’re celebrating Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, or any other holiday, it’s essential to pet-proof your home and make sure your fur kids stay safe throughout the festivities. Here’s everything you need to know to ensure your pets are safe, comfortable, and included in the fun.

Common Risks & Safer Alternatives for Decorations

From shiny tinsel to flickering candles, holiday decorations can be hazardous for your pets. Learn how to keep your home festive and safe with these pet-friendly alternatives:

Tinsel, Ribbons, and Candles
Tinsel and ribbons are tempting to cats, who love to bat at and sometimes swallow shiny, string-like objects. These can cause choking or intestinal blockages. Instead of tinsel, try using pet-safe garlands or decorative fabric that won’t pose a hazard if chewed or swallowed.

When it comes to candles, open flames can be a risk—whether from a traditional Christmas tree light or menorah candles. Consider flame-less LED candles that mimic the glow of real candles but are safe for homes with curious pets.

Fragile Ornaments and Decor
Glass ornaments and delicate decor are beautiful but can easily break and cause cuts or be ingested by pets. Opt for unbreakable, pet-safe ornaments made from felt, wood, or rubber. You can also go for larger, shatterproof ornaments and place them higher up on the tree or out of reach.

Electrical Cords
Pet-safe holiday lighting is a great way to brighten up your home, but make sure the cords are out of reach. If your pet likes to chew, use cord protectors to prevent any electrical accidents. You could also try battery-powered or solar lights that are easier to secure.

 

Keep Your Pets’ Bellies Happy 

Holiday treats can be tempting, but many are harmful to pets. Find out what foods to avoid and how to share the holiday spirit with your pets safely:

Chocolate, Alcohol, and Caffeine
Chocolate is a classic holiday treat, but it's a serious hazard for pets. Dark chocolate contains theobromine, which can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and seizures in pets, and in severe cases, it can be fatal. Even milk chocolate is a risk, so always keep chocolate out of reach. Similarly, alcohol—even in small amounts—can cause dangerous symptoms in pets, including vomiting, difficulty breathing, and even coma or death. Keep drinks, especially those with alcohol or caffeine, safely away from your furry friends.

Fatty and Seasoned Foods
Holiday meals often include rich, fatty foods like turkey skin, gravy, and ham, which can cause stomach upset or more serious conditions like pancreatitis. These foods are hard for pets to digest and can lead to vomiting, pain, and loss of appetite. Avoid giving your pet table scraps, and be sure to keep foods that contain onions, garlic, or certain herbs out of reach, as they can be toxic to both dogs and cats.

Holiday Spice Alternatives
Certain spices like nutmeg and cinnamon can be harmful to pets if consumed in large amounts. However, there are many safe alternatives you can use to add a little holiday cheer to your pet’s diet, such as sweet potato or pumpkin (without added sugar or spices). If you want to share a festive drink, make sure it’s pet-safe, such as bone broth or a pet-friendly “puppuccino.”

 

Hidden Plant Risks and How to Avoid Them

Common holiday plants can be toxic to pets, but there are safe and beautiful alternatives. Here’s how to decorate your home with greenery without putting your pets at risk:

Toxic Plants to Avoid
Many common holiday plants, such as poinsettias, mistletoe, and holly, are toxic to pets. While they may add beauty to your holiday decor, these plants can cause anything from mild digestive upset to severe poisoning if ingested. Consider pet-safe plant alternatives like non-toxic orchids, bamboo, or artificial holiday florals.

Keep Plants Out of Reach
If you’re unable to avoid some of these plants, be sure to keep them in areas where your pets can’t access them. High shelves, hanging planters, or terrariums are all good options for keeping plants safe.

 

Creating a Comfortable and Calm Holiday Atmosphere

The holiday hustle and bustle can be overwhelming for pets. Here’s how to create a peaceful space where your pets can relax and enjoy the season too:

Set Up a Quiet Space
The holidays can be busy and noisy, with guests coming and going, which can be overwhelming for some pets. Create a designated “pet zone” where they can relax, away from the hustle and bustle. This area should include their favorite bed, toys, and maybe a cozy blanket. If you're hosting a gathering, make sure there’s a quiet place for your pet to retreat to if they get stressed.
Pro Tip: An easily collapsible crate, like this one from Diggs, make it super easy to create a safe "den" like space for your pup.

Managing Holiday Stress for Pets
If your pets get anxious around new people, loud noises, or unfamiliar situations, consider providing them with anxiety-relieving products. Pet-safe calming sprays, diffusers, or CBD chews designed for pets can help ease their nerves. You can also help by maintaining their regular routine as much as possible, even during the busy holiday season.

 

Fun, Festive and Pet-Safe Gifts

Holiday shopping for your pets can be fun, but safety is key. Discover safe, durable toys and treats that will keep your pets entertained and healthy this season:

Durable Holiday-Themed Toys
Toys designed for pets can also be holiday-themed, so your fur kid can enjoy a festive season too! Look for durable toys that are built to last, such as rubber chew toys, plush squeaky toys, or interactive puzzle toys that engage your pet’s brain. For a holiday twist, many brands offer Christmas- or Hanukkah-themed toys with fun designs like snowflakes, gingerbread men, and more.

Avoid Small Parts
Be cautious when selecting toys—avoid those with small, removable parts that could be a choking hazard. Instead, go for solid, chew-friendly options. And remember, always supervise your pets with new toys to make sure they’re playing safely.

Edible Gifts for Pets
If you’re looking to give your furry friend a tasty holiday gift, edible treats are a great option—just make sure they're safe and healthy! There are plenty of dog-safe chews and natural treats made with high-quality ingredients like sweet potatoes, chicken, and peanut butter that are perfect for the season. Consider antler chews, which are a natural and long-lasting option that dogs love to gnaw on. You can also find advent calendars for pets, filled with small, nutritious treats to enjoy each day. Cats can also get in on the fun with catnip-infused treats or dental chews, which help keep their teeth clean while satisfying their cravings. Be sure to avoid treats with harmful ingredients like xylitol or excess salt, and always check labels to ensure you're choosing pet-safe options.

Pro Tip: Subscription boxes, like BARK's BarkBox & Super Chewer make great gifts for any of the pups in your life! Subscribe today to Sleigh the Holidays with the Rudolph Double Deluxe Box.

 

Keeping Your Pets Secure While on the Go

Whether you're traveling by car or plane, keeping your pet safe while on the move is essential. These travel tips will ensure your furry friend stays secure and comfortable:

Car Travel Safety
If you're traveling with your pet, make sure they are properly secured in the vehicle. Use a pet seatbelt harness or a secure crate to keep them safe during the trip. Never let your pet ride in the front seat or on your lap, as sudden stops can lead to injuries.

Air Travel with Pets
If you're flying, check with the airline about their pet policy, and make sure you have the appropriate carrier. Also, remember to pack your pet’s essentials—like food, water, and medications—so that they stay comfortable throughout the journey.

 

Prevent Your Pet From Getting Lost in the Holiday Shuffle

With doors opening for guests and the holiday hustle, it’s easy for pets to slip out unnoticed. Use these tips to keep your fur kids secure this season:

Up-to-date PetHub Profile and QR ID Tags
Before the holiday rush, make sure your fur kids PetHub profile is up-to-date, including any recent changes in contact details or address. Confirm that their QR code tag is readable and securely attached to their collar or harness—this way, if they slip out, anyone who finds them can quickly scan the tag to contact you.

Leash Up Before Guests Arrive
If you’re expecting visitors, keep your dog leashed in the moments leading up to their arrival. This way, you have control over your dog’s movements as guests come in, reducing the chance of any door-dashing.

Train a Reliable “Wait” or “Stay” Command
Teaching your dog a “wait” or “stay” command near the door can work wonders in preventing sudden escapes. Practice with treats and positive reinforcement, and make sure to reward them when they wait calmly as the door opens.

Place a Visual Reminder for Guests
A simple sign on or near the door—like, “Watch for the Dog!” or "Look out for Cat!"—serves as a friendly reminder for visitors to be careful when entering and exiting. Brief guests beforehand, if possible, to close the front door as quickly as possible upon entering the home.

Set Up a Two-Door System
If feasible, create a “double barrier” by closing off a second door or hallway (a well-placed baby gate will do the job!) leading to the front entrance. This adds an extra layer of security in case your little escape artist gets close to the front door, giving you time to stop them before they reach it.

 

Bringing It All Together for a Safe Holiday

With these simple steps, you and your fur kids can enjoy a safe, joyful season, no matter what or how you celebrate. From choosing pet-safe decorations and treats to creating a calming environment for them, these small changes can make a big difference. Wishing you a safe and joyful howliday season with your furry family members!