The Ultimate Holiday Survival Guide for Pet Owners to Keep Their Furry Friends Safe

The holiday season brings joy, family gatherings, and festive decorations. But it also brings unique challenges for pet owners. Pets can easily get stressed, injured, or sick during this busy time. Knowing what to watch for and how to protect your furry friends can make the difference between a happy holiday and an emergency visit to the vet. This guide shares practical tips and important advice to help you keep your pets safe and calm throughout the season.

The Top 7 Holiday Emergencies and How to Avoid Them

Veterinarians see a spike in certain emergencies every December. Being aware of these common issues helps you prevent them:

• Chocolate and toxic food ingestion

Chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, and alcohol are among the foods that can cause severe poisoning. Keep all holiday treats out of reach and educate guests not to feed your pets table scraps.

• Foreign object ingestion

Tinsel, ribbons, ornaments, and wrapping paper can cause blockages if swallowed. Secure decorations and dispose of wrapping materials promptly.

• Burns and electrical shocks

Candles, string lights, and heated decorations pose risks. Use flameless candles and keep cords hidden or covered.

• Falls and injuries from decorations

Curious pets may knock over trees or decorations, leading to cuts or fractures. Anchor trees securely and avoid fragile ornaments at lower levels.

• Stress-related behavior changes

New guests, loud noises, and disrupted routines can cause anxiety, leading to destructive behavior or escape attempts.

• Cold-related issues for senior pets

Older pets may suffer from joint pain or mobility problems worsened by cold weather. Provide warm bedding and consider heating pads designed for pets.

• Fireworks and loud noises

Fireworks can cause panic and disorientation. Create a quiet, safe space for your pet and use calming aids if needed.

Foods That Land Pets in the ER Every December

Many holiday foods are dangerous for pets. Some common offenders include:

• Chocolate: Contains theobromine, toxic to dogs and cats. Even small amounts can cause vomiting, seizures, or death.

• Grapes and raisins: Can cause kidney failure.

• Onions and garlic: Damage red blood cells, leading to anemia.

• Alcohol: Even small amounts can depress the nervous system.

• Xylitol: A sweetener found in sugar-free gum and candies, causing rapid insulin release and liver failure.

  
  

Keep these foods out of reach and remind guests not to share their treats.

How Guests, Travel, Noise, and Routine Changes Affect Pet Behavior

Pets thrive on routine. The holiday season often disrupts their normal schedule, which can cause stress and behavioral changes:

• New people and pets: Some animals become territorial or fearful. Introduce guests slowly and provide a safe retreat.

• Travel stress: Car rides and unfamiliar places can cause anxiety. Bring familiar toys and blankets.

• Noise and crowds: Loud music, parties, and fireworks can frighten pets. Use white noise machines or calming pheromone diffusers.

• Changes in feeding and walking times: Keep feeding and exercise schedules as consistent as possible.

  
  

Watch for signs of stress such as pacing, whining, hiding, or aggression.

Senior Pet Winter Care Tips

Older pets need extra care during the colder months:

• Joint pain and arthritis: Cold weather can worsen stiffness. Provide soft, warm bedding and consider gentle massage or vet-recommended supplements.

• Mobility issues: Use ramps or non-slip mats to help pets move safely.

• Heating pads: Use pet-safe heating pads to provide warmth, but never leave pets unattended with electric devices.

• Regular vet check-ups: Monitor for any changes in behavior or health.

  
  

Keeping senior pets comfortable helps them enjoy the holidays too.

Holiday Plants That Can Harm Pets

Many festive plants are toxic to pets. Here are some to avoid or keep out of reach:

• Poinsettias: Mildly toxic, causing irritation and vomiting.

• Mistletoe: Can cause severe gastrointestinal upset and cardiovascular problems.

• Holly: Berries are toxic and can cause vomiting and diarrhea.

• Lilies: Extremely toxic to cats, causing kidney failure.

• Amaryllis: Causes vomiting, diarrhea, and tremors.

  
  

If you use these plants, place them where pets cannot reach or substitute with pet-safe decorations.

Tips for Keeping Pets Calm During Gatherings and Fireworks

Holiday celebrations can overwhelm pets. Here are ways to help them stay calm:

• Create a quiet, comfortable space with their bed, toys, and water.

• Use calming pheromone sprays or diffusers.

• Play soft music or white noise to mask loud sounds.

• Avoid forcing pets to interact with guests if they seem stressed.

• Exercise pets before events to help reduce anxiety.

• Consult your vet about safe calming supplements or medications if needed.

  
  

When to Call Your Vet and When It’s a True Emergency

Knowing when to seek veterinary care can save your pet’s life:

Call your vet if your pet shows:

• Vomiting or diarrhea lasting more than 24 hours

• Lethargy or weakness

• Difficulty breathing or coughing

• Signs of pain or limping

• Unusual behavior or seizures

  
  

Go to the emergency vet immediately if your pet:

• Ingested chocolate, grapes, or toxic plants

• Has difficulty breathing or collapses

• Shows severe bleeding or trauma

• Has seizures lasting more than a few minutes

• Is unresponsive or unconscious

  
  

Keep your vet’s contact information and the nearest emergency clinic’s number handy during the holidays.

If you are in the Phoenix, AZ area and would like to learn more about Valet Vet and our mobile veterinary services, give us a call! 623-738-2738 Or, visit us at www.valetvet.com