12/20/2025
Great advice! Keep your pets safe!
It’s the most wonderful time of the year. And by wonderful, we mean your house is full of food, decorations, guests, and at least one pet actively plotting something evil.
Between the mystery foods, the sparkly decorations, and Aunt Linda’s purse full of random pills (Is it Benadryl? Is it a vitamin? Is it codliver oil? Who’s to say?), the holidays are basically one long obstacle course for animals. So here’s your festive reminder to keep the season merry and vet-visit-free.
Let’s talk about the food.
Yes, your pet would like to help with dinner. No, they should not. Fatty foods, bones, chocolate, grapes, sweets, and anything with xylitol are a hard no. Alcohol and caffeine are also off-limits (obviously). And please, for the love of all things holy, secure the trash can, so it doesn’t turn into a late-night snack bar.
Decorations are not toys.
We know. They sparkle. They dangle. They look like they were especially made to tempt pets. But ornaments, tinsel, string lights, candles, and holiday plants like mistletoe or lilies can be dangerous if chewed, swallowed, or knocked over. Make sure they’re out of reach and that you supervise your pets around them.
Travel smart.
If your pet is coming along for the holiday chaos at Grandma’s house, they should be secured in a carrier or harness. Never leave them in a parked car. And with all the doors opening and closing, make sure collars, ID tags, and microchip info are up to date.
Escape the Guests.
Some pets live for company. Others would prefer to be perceived from a distance. Let guests know how to interact respectfully, and give pets a quiet place to escape if the noise gets overwhelming. And please lock up guests’ toiletries and medications, curiosity does not come with common sense.
Be prepared.
Keep emergency vet info handy, just in case the holiday spirit gets a little too spirited.
That’s it. Do these things and your holidays will be filled with joy, laughter, and significantly fewer panic attacks.
