Holiday Pet Safety

Published: 12/10/25

The holidays can bring so much joy into our homes, and our pets feel that energy along with us. But with all the new sights and smells, they may encounter things that aren’t safe for them. Review these winter holiday tips to help keep your pets protected so everyone can enjoy the season together.

Winter Holiday AMC Schwarzman Animal Medical Center Usdan Institute for Pet Safety Tips Skip Table Treats Avoid sharing holiday foods with pets. Rich dishes can upset their chocolate, grapes, and onions are toxic. SINCE 1910 Avoid Toxic Plants Poinsettia, mistletoe, holly, amaryllis, lilies, and cyclamen are toxic and securely. Pets stomachs, and items like to pets. Keep them out can turn trash into of nibbling range. Animal Health Education Guard the Garbage Dispose of food waste promptly a dangerous snack. Watch the Wires Hide cords and wires behind furniture to prevent chewing injuries and electrical burns. Be Candle Cautious Keep candles, menorahs, and kinaras where pets and cover the stand. can't reach. Consider Avoid edible décor; flameless candles for a choose shatterproof worry-free glow. Secure the Tree Anchor your tree ornaments. Check Guest Bags Houseguests' bags can contain medications, xylitol gum, or toxic snacks. Keep them zipped and stored where pets can't get to them. Discard Gift Wrap Wrapping paper, bows, and ribbons are fun for pets to bat around but can cause choking or an obstruction if swallowed. Create Calm Give pets a quiet space to relax. Make sure their microchip details and ID tags are up to date in case they slip out.