12/15/2025
Here at Kessen Vet Clinic we understand how important your pets are. You and your pets are our top priority, and we want to help you keep your pets safe and happy this Holiday Season. Here are a few tips to help the Holidays run smoothly for you and your pets.
Did you know that a few of our favorite Holiday foods are toxic to pets. Here are a few foods to be sure to keep your pets away from: bones, rich gravies, onions, garlic, grapes/raisins, and chocolate.
While they are not foods, it is important to also keep your pets away from holly and mistletoe as these plants are highly toxic to pets. If your pet ingests holly or mistletoe, even in small amounts, please contact Pet Poison Control as soon as possible.
Decorations are a treasured favorite during the Holidays. Some types of decorations pose a risk to your pet. Observing the following tips can help to keep your pet safe from some common Holiday decorating hazards. Keep glass or breakable decorations out of your pet’s reach. Place glass ornaments higher on the tree, or opt for plastic ornaments instead of glass. Keep pets away from tinsel and ribbon, or decorations with string. These items can be particularly alluring to cats who love to play with ribbon, string, and other hanging decorations.
While we often look forward to spending time with friends and loved ones during the Holidays, our pets may not feel the same. Pets may not be welcoming of Little Tommy coming in for a quick hug, or Uncle Jim’s big boisterous laugh. Here are some tips that can help keep everyone happy during Holiday gatherings, including your pet.
Introduce pets to guests gradually while paying close attention to your pet’s reaction. Hissing, growling, showing the whites of the eyes, attempting to hide or run away, or a hunched, tail tucked posture all indicate that your pet is stressed or unhappy and needs time away from the action. Offer your pet a quiet room or location away from the noise and hustle of house guests. This helps keep everyone safe and helps prevent stress related behavior in your pet.
Have questions or concerns about your pet this Holiday season? We are just a phone call away, and happy to help. Give us a call at 419-692-5946.