Holiday Safety Tips for Pets: Keeping Your Pet Safe During Celebrations

Holidays bring family, food, and fun—but they can also introduce unexpected risks for pets.

From rich foods to decorations and increased activity in the home, it’s important to take a few extra precautions to keep your pet safe and stress-free during gatherings.

At River Mill Animal Hospital, we recommend the following tips to help protect your pet during any celebration.

Keep Food Away from Pets

Many holiday foods can be harmful—even in small amounts.

Avoid giving pets:

• Fatty foods (like turkey skin) – can lead to pancreatitis 
• Bones – can splinter and damage the digestive tract 
• Onions, grapes, and raisins – toxic to pets 

Signs of pancreatitis may include vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, and dehydration.

👉 If you want to include your pet, choose treats made specifically for pets.

 

Skip the Desserts

Sweets can be dangerous:

• Chocolate is toxic to pets 
• Xylitol (found in sugar-free foods and gum) can be deadly 

Keep desserts and baked goods safely out of reach.

 

Avoid Raw Dough

Uncooked yeast dough can expand in the stomach, causing:

• Painful bloating 
• Gas buildup 
• Potentially life-threatening complications 

 
Secure the Trash

• Food scraps and leftovers can be just as dangerous as food on the table.
• Dispose of bones, carcasses, and food wrappers in sealed bags 
• Keep trash containers closed and out of reach 

 

Watch Decorations & Plants

Holiday decor can pose hidden dangers:
 

• Certain plants (like amaryllis, hydrangeas, and decorative florals) can be toxic 
• Candles can cause burns or fire hazards 
• Pinecones, needles, and decorations can cause intestinal blockages 

Never leave pets unattended around decorations or open flames.

 

Manage Guests & Noise

Gatherings can be overwhelming for some pets.

• Provide a quiet space if your pet is anxious 
• Use a crate or separate room if needed 
• Let guests know not to feed your pet 

 

Be Careful with Open Doors

With guests coming and going, pets can easily slip out.
Ensure your pet has: 

• An ID tag with current contact information 
• An up-to-date microchip 
• These are critical for a safe return if your pet gets out.

 

Traveling with Your Pet

If your pet is joining you:

• Use a secure carrier or harness 
• Never leave pets unattended in a vehicle 
• Bring food, medications, and medical records 

Proper restraint keeps both your pet and your family safe.

 

We’re Here to Help Keep Your Pet Safe

A little preparation goes a long way in preventing emergencies and keeping your celebrations enjoyable for everyone—including your pet.

At River Mill Animal Hospital, we’re here to support you and your pet through every season.

📞 Call us at (813) 501-4985 if you have any concerns or questions.