11/20/2025
Pet-safe holiday gatherings.
The holidays are a time for gratitude, family gatherings, and celebrations, but while you’re busy preparing for the holiday; you can easily overlook the potential dangers for your pet.
Keep the feast on the table. Do not let guests slip food to your pets under the table. Turkey, or other greasy or fatty foods, garlic, onion, leeks, and chives, unbaked dough containing yeast, desserts and chocolate may be inviting to pets, but will cause problems in their digestive system.
Put the trash away where your pet can’t find it. Bones and decomposing foods in the trash can sicken your pet.
Watch increased foot traffic and open doors. Guests coming and going may give your pet an opportunity to slip out the door. Be sure your pet is wearing proper ID. Identification tags and microchips reunite pets and families.
Avoid decor disasters. Pets may be afraid of inflatables or other decorations. Be careful with decorative plants as some may be toxic and poisonous to pets.
Never leave pets alone in vehicles. Always safely restrain pets in vehicles using a secure harness or a carrier during travel.
If you want to share a meal with your pet over the holidays, offer them some veggies such as carrots and cucumbers, apples, pumpkin, and sweet potatoes or mashed potatoes.
Being a smart pet parent helps you and your pets enjoy the holidays!