The holidays feel magical with twinkling lights, festive foods, joyful chaos, but for dogs, that magic can hide some surprising dangers. Even the most seasoned pet parents overlook a few.
Sure, you probably know about the basics like keeping chocolate and tinsel out of reach. But there are more unexpected holiday hazards lurking in decorations, plants, party foods, and even the way we gather. Most dog parents have no idea how many risks pop up this time of year.
Before the celebrations begin, let’s dig into the hidden holiday dangers your pup needs you to know about. A few simple precautions can keep the season merry, bright, and completely dog-safe.
Budget tip:
Keeping your curious pets safe during the holiday season, isn’t difficult. Generally, it doesn’t even cost you any additional money. But when you ignore them, you could end up with a surprise emergency vet visit or worse. Being safe and avoiding dog holiday hazards is a win-win for your pup and your wallet.
What we love for holiday dog safety:
Pet savings account - good anytime for your buddy
Emergency vet fund - always a good to create an emergency slush fund
Go-to grab pet bag - keep one ready to go for any emergency
Pet poison hotlines - while they may cost it bit, it could be a lifesaver and it's great to have them in your phone.
Pet safe zone - for your buddy to escape the festive follies
Pet first aid kit - always good to have one on hand and this is a great one!
What are the Dog Holiday Food Hazards to Avoid This Season?
I love all the yummy treats and eats during the holidays. My waistline might not be so much. Even more importantly, my dog, Henry, could get very sick with all the delicious holiday treats. So, I make sure he’s safe from hazards and toxic food. Even a small amount could mean a frantic visit to the emergency vet or worse.
Dogs can be super if something is dropped or left unattended. Don’t let your pup outsmart you and be at least one step ahead.
- Chocolate
- Grapes
- Raisins
- Chocolate
- Coffee
- Caffeine items
- Xylitol – found in sugar-free candies, gums, and processed peanut butter
- Onions
- Garlic
- Chives
- Gravy
- Cheeses
- Fatty meat trimmings
- Salty treats like pretzels (too much can cause salt toxicity)
- Nuts (walnuts, hazelnuts, macadamia nuts, heck, most nuts)
- Alcoholic drinks and treats
- Dressing or stuffing
- Seasoned turkey
- Turkey bones
Holiday Hacks: Create a “no-no” holiday list and tape it to the fridge so guests and visitors know what your dog can’t eat.
What Holiday Decorations are Hazardous to Dogs?
Who doesn’t love a beautifully decorated home during the holidays? But knowing what could be dangerous to your four-legged family member is key to avoiding a mishap and pricey vet bill. Watch out for these possible decoration hazards.
- Christmas tree tinsel
- Garlands
- Ornaments
- Lights
- Electrical cords
- Candles
- Tree water
- Pine needles
- Tree sap
- Pinecones
- Snow globes
- Batteries
- Ribbon and strings (which could be ingested and cause stomach issues if not supervised)
- Holiday costumes that scare your buddy or make it more difficult to see or move
Which Holiday Plants are Hazardous to My Pets?
I used to always buy a poinsettia every year for my mom. I made sure it was visible, yet out of the reach of my furry friends, and especially my curious cats. These holiday plants can be very toxic to pets.
- Poinsettia
- Holly
- Mistletoe
- Lilies
What Hazards Should I Avoid For My Dog With Holiday Gatherings?
Unfortunately, while a holiday party can be fun, it can also pose a hazard to your buddy. Watch out for these possible hazards.
In this article, discover how to host a holiday party and have a calm dog.
- Open doors or open gates leading to a lost dog
- Children being rough with your dog
- Toxic food dropped on the floor
- Open purses or bags with toxic food like candy
Holiday Hacks: Place a sign on your door that says, “Please keep the door shut to keep my pets safe.”
Easy Dog Holiday Emergency Prep is Key
Unfortunately, accidents happen at any time of year. That means it’s best to be prepared. Consider the following:
- Have a pet savings account
- Create an emergency vet account
- Add your vet and emergency vets to your phone (I have two emergency vets in my phone, just in case one is not available, I have another option)
- Put the pet poison hotlines in your phone. You don’t want to search for those numbers if you need them. Keep in mind, they charge for the calls. But that’s a small price when you have to act quickly to save your buddy.
- Keeping a pet first aid kit handy and let everyone know where it is located.
- Create a pet grab bag (fire and disasters happen when you least expect it.)
- Have a list of toxic foods and plants to avoid for your fur kid.
- Give your dog a safe zone to escape loud or energetic party guests
Pro Tip: If you’re not 100% sure something is safe for your buddy, simply avoid it so you don’t regret it later.
How Does Avoiding Dog Holiday Hazards Save Me Money?
These tips are all easy and doable. They keep your pup safe and bills down. Consider the following for a moment.
| Issue | Estimated Cost |
| Pet poisoning | $100 – 5,000 |
| Swallow small or large items/intestinal blockage | $2,000 – 10,000+ |
| Injured furry buddy | $200 – 8,000 |
| Lost dog | $25 – 8,000 |
| Happy and healthy holidays with your pup | PRICELESS!!! |
Related articles:
- Cool free tool to create dog cookies
- Other household hazards
- How to Have a Party and a Calm Dog
- Yard Hazards Lurking In Your Backyard
- How to Remove Sap From Dog Fur
- Lost Dog Strategy For Successful Reunion
- How to Have a Calm Dog Even With Fireworks
- Create a Pet Savings Account
- Why an Emergency Vet Account is Essential
- What Pet Numbers You Need in Your Phone
- How to Create a Pet Grab Bag
- A Simple Way to Create a Dog Safe Zone
Ho, Ho, Howlidays Are Fun Days!
If you’re like me, your holidays include your furry four-legged family member. But making the season fun and safe is essential when you’re a dog parent. Also, learning how to avoid any seasonal risk is always a great idea. It can take a few more steps, but keeping your pup healthy and avoiding an emergency vet visit is worth every ounce of effort. Henry loves the festive holiday season and looks for the jolly man’s visit each year.
