Keeping Your Pets Safe During the Holidays

By Sir Milo Loftin, County of San Diego Communications Office
November 28, 2025 (San Diego)

The holiday season is a wonderful time for celebration, family gatherings, and, of course, delicious feasts. However, amid the excitement, it’s crucial to keep our four-legged friends safe. County Animal Services has put together essential safety tips to ensure that your pets have a happy and safe holiday season from Thanksgiving through New Year’s.

Food Safety

During the holidays, we’re often tempted to share our delicious meals with our pets. However, not everything on your holiday table is pet-friendly. While some foods can be safe in small amounts, many traditional holiday dishes can pose significant risks.

Safe Foods for Pets:

• Plain turkey or chicken (without skin, bones, or seasoning)
• Plain sweet potatoes or pumpkin
• Fruits and vegetables such as green beans, carrots, or apple slices.

Foods to Avoid:

• Cooked bones that can splinter and cause choking or digestive blockages.
• Onions, garlic, and chives, which are toxic to dogs and cats.
• Grapes and raisins, which can lead to kidney failure.
• Chocolate and desserts, which are harmful and can be fatal to pets.
• Foods containing xylitol, a common sugar substitute that is toxic to dogs.
• Raw dough or alcohol, both of which can be dangerous.

To prevent any mishaps, it’s best to stick with regular pet treats. Keep trash cans securely closed since pets are experts at sniffing out tasty leftovers!

Holiday Decorations and Hazards

Festive decorations can enhance the holiday spirit but may also lead to dangerous situations for our pets.

Hazardous Decor Items:

• Tinsel, ribbon, and string, which can cause intestinal blockages if swallowed.
• Glass ornaments that can shatter and injure sharp little paws or inquisitive noses.
• Lights and electrical cords, which can lead to burns or electric shocks.
• Candles that can be knocked over. Opt for flameless options instead.
• Wrapping paper and bows that might be fun to play with but could be harmful if ingested.

Christmas Trees

Christmas trees, while a delightful sight, can be particularly tempting for curious pets.

Tree Safety Tips:

• Securely anchor your tree to prevent it from toppling over.
• Place delicate ornaments higher up out of reach.
• Avoid using tinsel or garland if you have cats that might chew on them.
• Regularly clean up fallen pine needles, which can irritate paws and mouths.
• Block access to standing water in the tree reservoir, as it can contain harmful preservatives.

Holiday Plants to Avoid

Certain common holiday plants can be toxic to pets and should be kept out of reach.

Toxic Plants Include:

• Poinsettias: May cause mild stomach upset.
• Mistletoe and holly: Can lead to vomiting, diarrhea, and in large amounts, heart complications.
• Lilies: Extremely toxic to cats, often causing kidney failure.
• Amaryllis and hibiscus: Can result in vomiting or diarrhea.

If you love the look of greenery, consider using pet-safe artificial plants instead.

Guests, Noise, and Routine Changes

The hustle and bustle of holiday gatherings can be overwhelming for pets. Here are some considerations for keeping them comfortable.

Managing Interactions with Guests:

Introduce any visiting pets slowly and in a neutral setting. Keep high-value items like food and toys out of reach to minimize potential conflicts.

Creating a Safe Space:

Set up a quiet area where pets can retreat to feel secure. This space should include their bed, water, and toys. Consider playing calming music to help drown out noise from the festivities.

Preventing Escapes:

With guests coming and going, it’s vital to monitor doors carefully. Ensure all pets wear up-to-date ID tags and are microchipped for added safety.

Seasonal Comfort and Safety

As temperatures drop, our pets can be affected by the cold. Make sure older animals or those with thin coats have a warm, dry place to sleep.

Indoor Heating Precautions:

• Keep pets away from space heaters and hot fireplaces.
• Use secure screens around fireplaces to prevent them from getting too close.
• Monitor for any chewing on heated blankets or cords, which can be hazardous.

New Year’s Safety

The loud noise from fireworks on New Year’s Eve can be frightening for many pets. Creating a secure space indoors, closing windows, and using curtains can help dampen the sound. Always ensure your pets’ microchip and ID tags are current.

Traveling and Boarding Preparedness

During the holidays, many families take trips, so planning for pets is crucial to keeping them secure and comfortable.

Travel Tips:

Use a well-fitted harness or crate for car rides, ensure pets remain hydrated, and maintain a comfortable temperature in the vehicle.

Boarding Considerations:

If your pet stays at a boarding facility, contact them ahead of time to confirm their requirements, including vaccinations. Bringing familiar items from home can help your pet adjust to the new environment.

Making the Holidays Special for Pets

With a bit of planning and care, you can create a joyful holiday season for both humans and pets. Give your furry friends extra love, stick to their routines as much as possible, and stock up on pet-approved treats to keep their spirits high while avoiding unsafe food temptations.

By following these guidelines, you can enjoy the holidays knowing your pets are safe, secure, and happy. For more seasonal tips, explore the County Animal Services’ detailed Safety Tips for Every Season.