The holidays bring twinkling lights, festive gatherings, and snowy adventures with pets as happy as Ghost (pictured above) in their winter wonderland. While this season is full of cheer, it also brings unique hazards for our four-legged family members. A little preparation goes a long way in keeping them safe, comfortable, and part of the celebration.
Food Safety:
Many holiday traditions revolve around food, but what’s safe for people isn’t always safe for pets. Keep your pet away from the table and unattended plates, and make sure garbage cans or compost bins are securely covered.
- Leftovers: Fatty or spicy foods, nuts, and bones can cause gastrointestinal issues or serious injury. Bones can splinter and lead to life-threatening blockages.
- Candy, sweets & substitutes: Chocolate is toxic, and sugar substitutes like xylitol (found in sugar-free candy and gum) can be extremely dangerous.
- Adult beverages: Alcohol and liquor-infused desserts can cause seizures, respiratory distress, and poor coordination.
- Caffeine: Coffee, tea, and some holiday desserts can cause hyperactivity, seizures, or tremors in pets.
- Fruits & veggies: Grapes and raisins can cause kidney failure in dogs. Citrus peels and seeds can irritate the stomach. Onions, garlic, chives, and shallots damage red blood cells.
Tip: Remind guests not to feed your pet human food, no matter how cute those holiday puppy-eyes may be.
Holiday Décor & Plants:
Decorations add magic to the season, but also risk.
- Secure your tree and ornaments to prevent toppling, chewing, or breakage.
- Tree needles can puncture internal organs or cause blockages, and tree-stand water may contain fertilizers or bacteria that make pets sick.
- Toxic plants: Mistletoe, holly, poinsettias, and lilies can cause anything from mild irritation to severe illness.
- Candles, fireplaces, and electrical cords pose burn or shock hazards.
- Gift wrap hazards: Ribbons, bows, and string can cause intestinal blockage if swallowed.
- Seasonal lighting: Secure cords and avoid dangling or chewable wires.
Tip: Use LED candles and keep fragile ornaments higher up where curious paws can’t reach.
Travel & Guests:
The bustle of travel and visitors can be stressful for pets.
- Secure your pet in a crate, carrier, or harness while traveling. Pets should never ride loose or sit in the front seat.
- Never leave your pet alone in a parked car. Even in winter, temperatures can drop dangerously fast.
- Bring familiar toys, blankets, and water to help keep your pet comfortable.
- Ensure your pet has a collar on with identifying information, a microchip, and an updated license.
- When hosting, Let guests know your pet’s routines, boundaries, and foods they must avoid.
- Provide a quiet escape room for your pet if festivities get overwhelming.
Tip: Play calming music or provide enrichment toys in their retreat space.
Cold Weather & Outdoor Safety:
If Ghost’s playfulness in the snow is any indicator, many pets love winter, but cold weather still brings risks.
- If it’s too cold for you, it’s too cold for your pet. Limit time outdoors during freezing temperatures.
- Outdoor pets need a warm, insulated, waterproof shelter elevated off the ground.
- Wipe paws after outdoor time to remove ice, snow, and salt that can irritate their skin.
- Bang on your car’s hood before starting it. Wildlife or stray cats may be hiding inside for warmth.
- Store antifreeze securely. Its sweet scent attracts pets, but even small amounts are deadly.
Tip: Paw balm or booties can help protect sensitive paws on icy days.
Emergencies & Preparedness
A little planning ahead can help prevent a future emergency.
- Keep important numbers handy: your veterinarian, emergency vets, Animal Law Enforcement, and the pet poison hotline.
- Create a quick-grab information sheet with your pet’s microchip number, medications, and medical needs.
- Report animals kept outside in unsafe winter conditions to local Animal Law Enforcement.
If you have concerns about the conditions in which a pet is being kept, please call Animal Law Enforcement at 719-302-8798 (for both Colorado Springs and Pueblo). We’re here to help!
Tip: Assemble a small “holiday pet safety kit” with bandages, an extra leash, ID tag, and emergency contacts.
With a little foresight, your pet can enjoy a safe and festive season right by your side. By staying mindful of potential hazards, you’ll ensure the holidays remain full of joy, comfort, and warm memories for every member of the family.
