Preparing for a Safe & Joyful Holiday Season
The holidays bring a special kind of magic — twinkling lights, festive music, delicious meals, and gatherings with loved ones. Our dogs feel that excitement too, but they also experience the stress, noise, and unpredictability that come with the season. As pet parents, it’s important to make sure the holidays are not only joyful but safe and comfortable for our furry family members.
Holiday décor is one of the biggest sources of concern. Christmas trees can hide risks like electrical cords, breakable ornaments, and tempting tinsel. Dogs may chew cords or knock over fragile decorations, so securing wires and placing delicate ornaments higher on the tree can help. Tree water can contain sap or preservatives that upset a dog’s stomach, so covering the basin is a necessary precaution.
Some other decorations can pose risks include: snow globes as they contain toxic liquids, holiday plants like mistletoe and lilies can cause stomach upset, and candles can be knocked over by a curious nose or wagging tail. Even gift wrap can become a chew toy if left on the floor too long. And if you’re placing gifts under the tree, keep chocolate or food gifts out of reach — dogs have an uncanny ability to sniff out the yummy stuff.
If you’re traveling, packing a small “dog holiday kit” with their food, medications (speak with your vet if your pup is an anxious traveler), familiar bedding, and updated ID tags can help your dog feel secure and prevent travel mishaps.
Holiday Foods: What’s Safe and What’s Not
Sharing holiday meals with our pups is tempting, but most festive foods aren’t safe for them. Many favorites including chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, macadamia nuts, xylitol-containing sweets, and heavily seasoned dishes can cause anything from stomach upset to serious illness. Even seemingly harmless foods can be toxic for dogs.
A safer approach to sharing pet-healthy treats is to create a yummy, pup-safe “snack bowl” for guests to offer instead of sharing potentially dangerous human goodies. You can also make your dog’s holiday dinner feel special by adding a small amount of high-quality canned dog food as a topper. It’s festive, delicious, and far safer than sharing from the table. Keeping your veterinarian and nearest emergency clinic saved in your phone under ICE (In Case of Emergency) is always wise — quick action can make all the difference to your pup’s health and safety.
Holiday Feelings: Supporting Your Dog Emotionally
The final holiday tip is one we often overlook: feelings and sensitivities. The holidays can be overwhelming for dogs. Changes in routine, loud gatherings, new visitors, and extra activity can make them extra anxious or overstimulated. Maintaining a predictable routine helps keep your dog grounded. Even a short walk or a few minutes of play can make a big difference.
Creating a quiet space with their bed, favorite toys, treats, and soft background music gives them a safe retreat when guests are over. Calm introductions, closed doors, and keeping purses or snacks out of reach help to prevent accidents and distress. After events are over and your guests have left, spend some time with your pups. Try ten minutes of reconnecting — brushing, cuddling, or playing — reassuring your dog helps them settle. And if your dog is traveling or boarding, bringing a familiar blanket or toy can provide them comfort.
Wishing You a Tail-Wagging Holiday Season
The holidays should feel warm, joyful, and safe for every member of the family — especially our dogs. With a little planning, mindful decorating, and attention to their emotional needs, we can create celebrations that sparkle without stress. Whether you’re hosting guests, traveling, or enjoying quiet moments at home, keeping your dog’s comfort and safety in mind ensures the season stays merry and bright. For more information, listen to The Doggy Diva Show, Podcast Episode 182.
