The holiday season brings joy, family gatherings, and plenty of festive décor—but it also brings a unique set of hazards for our pets. From tempting treats to twinkling decorations, your home becomes a wonderland of potential dangers. The good news? With a little preparation, you can keep your furry family members safe, healthy, and included in the celebration.

Here’s your guide to holiday pet safety so you and your pets can enjoy the season stress-free.

1. Watch Out for Dangerous Holiday Foods

Many classic holiday dishes are harmful—or even toxic—to pets. Keep these foods out of paw’s reach:

• Turkey skin & fatty foods: Can trigger pancreatitis.

• Cooked bones: Splinter easily and cause choking or internal injuries.

• Onions, garlic & chives: Toxic to both dogs and cats.

• Grapes & raisins: Can cause kidney failure in dogs.

• Chocolate & sugar-free sweets: Chocolate contains theobromine; sugar-free treats may have xylitol.

• Alcohol: Even small amounts can be dangerous.

Tip: Make a pet-safe treat board with plain turkey, carrots, pumpkin puree, apples, or green beans so they don’t feel left out.

2. Secure Your Christmas Tree & Decorations

Holiday décor is beautiful—but irresistible to curious pets.

Tree Safety

• Secure your tree to prevent tipping.

• Block access to the tree water—fertilizers, mold, and bacteria can make pets sick.

• Avoid breakable ornaments near the bottom of the tree.

Lighting & Cords

• Keep wires covered or out of reach.

• Unplug lights when you’re not home.

Tinsel

• Especially dangerous for cats—can cause life-threatening intestinal blockages. Skip it if you can.

3. Be Careful with Holiday Plants

Some festive plants are mildly to moderately toxic to pets:

• Poinsettias – Usually only mildly irritating but still best avoided.

• Mistletoe & holly – More concerning; can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and heart issues.

• Lilies – Extremely toxic to cats; avoid entirely.

Opt for pet-safe alternatives like Christmas cactus, roses, orchids, or faux décor.

4. Manage Stress from Holiday Guests

More people + more noise = more stress for pets.

• Create a quiet “safe space” with their bed and favorite toys.

• Keep routines (meals, walks, playtime) as normal as possible.

• Remind guests not to feed your pets table scraps.

• For escape artists, make sure doors/gates are secure when guests arrive.

Bonus: Update ID tags and microchip information before hosting or traveling.

5. Travel Safely With Pets

Whether you’re flying or driving:

Driving Tips

• Use a crash-tested harness or travel crate.

• Never let a pet ride in your lap or roam freely.

• Bring familiar bedding and toys.

Flying Tips

• Check airline pet policies early.

• Avoid sedating pets unless your vet instructs otherwise.

• Use an airline-approved carrier.

6. Prepare for Fireworks & New Year’s Noise

New Year’s Eve can be stressful for pets due to loud noises.

• Bring them indoors before dark.

• Close blinds, turn on the TV, and create a cozy space.

• Consider calming aids like anxiety jackets, pheromone diffusers, or vet-approved supplements.

Celebrate Safely with Your Furry Family

The holidays are a time for celebration, and with a little planning, your pets can be part of the fun without the risks. By watching what they eat, protecting them from decorations, and keeping stress levels low, you’ll help ensure a safe and joyful season for every member of your family—two-legged and four-legged.