During the festive holiday season, it’s easy to forget that what’s merry for us might be risky for our pets. This post is dedicated to all pet parents who want to navigate the holiday season without any visits to the emergency veterinary room. We’ll cover everything from food safety to decoration dos and don’ts, offering you the ultimate guide to pet-proofing your holiday celebrations.

Keep Your Tree Secure

The twinkling lights of a Christmas tree can easily catch the eye of a curious pet–and this can spell trouble. Whether it’s knocking the tree over on accident or ingesting tree water, your pets can get injured or sick without the right safety measures. Make sure your tree is stable and not easily tipped over. Ensure that the water is out of reach of pets, or opt for an artificial tree to remove this hazard entirely.

Watch the Weather

The holiday season also means winter weather conditions, so be sure to check temperatures and weather conditions when your pet goes outside. Dogs may need protection for their paws when the ground is icy, snowy, or wet and cold. Additionally, small pets may need some extra warmth with a sweater or fitted coat before heading into the backyard. 

Be Wary of Treats

During the festive season, our homes are filled with an array of tempting foods, many of which can pose serious risks to pets. Avoid feeding pets toxic items like chocolate, xylitol-sweetened goodies, and certain fruits and nuts. Also, be wary of food gifts; always verify their safety for pets. Keeping your pets on their regular diet and resisting the urge to share holiday treats can prevent potential health emergencies.

If your pet has ingested potentially toxic foods, become injured in icy conditions, or had an accident with the Christmas tree, don’t hesitate to head to the emergency animal hospital for immediate care.