How to Keep Your Dog Safe During Holidays

Holidays are a time for celebration, joy, and gatherings, but they can also bring potential hazards for our furry friends. Ensuring your dog’s safety during festive times requires some extra attention and preparation. Here are some tips to help you keep your dog safe and comfortable during the holidays. 

1. Secure Your Home Decorations

Decorations like tinsel, ornaments, and lights can be enticing for dogs but also dangerous. Ensure that: 

• Fragile ornaments are out of reach. 

• Electrical cords are secured and inaccessible to prevent chewing. 

• Candles are placed in high, stable places to avoid accidental knocks. 

2. Be Cautious with Holiday Foods

Many holiday foods can be harmful to dogs. Educate your guests and ensure that: 

• Chocolate, grapes, raisins, and onions are kept out of reach. 

• Alcohol is never left unattended. 

• Leftovers and bones are disposed of promptly and securely. 

3. Create a Safe Space

With the hustle and bustle of holidays, dogs can feel stressed. Create a quiet, comfortable area where your dog can retreat. Make sure this space includes: 

• Their bed or crate. 

• Familiar toys. 

• Fresh water and some treats. 

4. Be Mindful of Visitors

Visitors can overwhelm dogs, leading to stress or aggressive behavior. Prepare by: 

• Informing guests of your dog’s boundaries. 

• Supervising interactions between dogs and unfamiliar people, especially children. 

• Providing a safe space if your dog needs a break from the commotion. 

5. Keep an Eye on Outdoor Safety

Winter holidays often bring cold weather. Protect your dog from the elements by: 

• Limiting their time outside in extreme cold. 

• Ensuring they wear appropriate gear like a dog coat or boots. 

• Wiping their paws to remove any ice, salt, or chemicals after walks. 

6. Avoid Toxic Plants

Common holiday plants like poinsettias, holly, mistletoe, and lilies can be toxic to canines. Keep these plants out of reach, or opt for artificial alternatives instead. 

7. Plan for Fireworks

Fireworks can be a significant stressor for dogs. Help them cope by: 

• Keeping them indoors during fireworks displays. 

• Playing soothing music or using white noise to drown out the sounds. 

• Providing comfort and distractions with toys or treats. 

8. Update Identification

Ensure your dog’s identification is up to date. During holidays, there’s an increased chance of dogs getting lost due to open doors and gates. Make sure: 

• Ensure they are wearing a collar with an ID tag. 

• Their microchip information is current. 

9. Watch Out for Holiday Plants

While festive, plants like poinsettias, mistletoe, and holly can be toxic to dogs. Keep these plants well out of reach, or opt for pet-safe artificial versions. 

10. Emergency Preparedness

Accidents can happen despite our best efforts. Be prepared by: 

• Being aware of the location and contact details of the nearest emergency vet. 

• Having a first aid kit for your dog. 

• Keeping emergency numbers accessible. 

By taking these precautions, you can ensure that the holidays are a joyous and safe time for both you and your dog. Remember, a little preparation goes a long way in preventing holiday mishaps and ensuring everyone, including your furry friend, enjoys the festive season. 

What are the Holiday Hazards for Pets? 

Holiday Hazard	Description	Prevention Tips
Decorations	Fragile ornaments, tinsel, and electrical cords	Keep fragile items out of reach, secure electrical cords, and place candles in high, stable areas
Holiday Foods	Chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, and alcohol	Store harmful foods securely, educate guests, and dispose of leftovers and bones promptly
Holiday Plants	Poinsettias, mistletoe, holly, and lilies	Keep toxic plants out of reach, consider artificial alternatives
Visitors	Increased stress and risk of aggressive behavior	Inform guests of the dog’s boundaries, supervise interactions, and provide a safe space for the dog
Fireworks	Loud noises cause stress and anxiety	Keep dogs indoors, play soothing music, provide comfort and distractions
Cold Weather	Risk of hypothermia and frostbite	Limit outdoor time, use dog coats and boots, wipe paws after walks to remove ice, salt, and chemicals
Open Doors/Gates	Increased risk of dogs escaping	Keep doors and gates closed, and ensure the dog’s ID tag and microchip information are up to date
Holiday Trash	Access to harmful items like food wrappers and decorations	Keep trash secured and out of reach, and dispose of hazardous items immediately
Holiday Stress	Changes in routine and environment causing anxiety	Maintain a regular routine, provide a quiet space, and offer familiar toys and comfort

Quick Tips for Pet Safety During the Holidays 

Do’s: 

• Secure Decorations: Keep fragile ornaments and electrical cords out of reach. 

• Safe Foods: Offer only pet-safe treats and foods. 

• Create a Safe Space: Provide a quiet, comfortable area for your dog to retreat. 

• Monitor Visitors: Supervise interactions between your dog and guests. 

• Winter Gear: Use dog coats and boots to protect against cold weather. 

• Update ID: Ensure your dog’s ID tag and microchip information are current. 

• Noise Management: Play soothing music during fireworks or loud celebrations. 

• Secure Trash: Keep holiday trash out of reach to prevent ingestion of harmful items. 

• Pet-Friendly Plants: Use artificial or non-toxic holiday plants. 

Don’ts: 

• Avoid Toxic Foods: Keep chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, and alcohol away from pets. 

• No Unattended Candles: Never leave lit candles where pets can reach them. 

• No Stress: Don’t force your dog to interact with unfamiliar guests or environments. 

• Limit Outdoor Time: Don’t leave dogs outside for extended periods in cold weather. 

• Don’t Ignore Signs of Stress: Be attentive to signs of anxiety and provide comfort. 

• No Unsafe Plants: Avoid using poinsettias, mistletoe, holly, and lilies around pets. 

• No Fireworks Exposure: Keep pets indoors during fireworks displays. 

• No Free Access to Holiday Foods: Prevent pets from accessing the dining table or kitchen counters. 

Are Holidays Stressful for Dogs? 

Stress Factor	Explanation	Mitigation Tips
Loud Noises	Fireworks, loud music, and increased noise levels can cause anxiety and stress in dogs.	Keep dogs in a quiet room, play calming music, and use white noise machines.
Strangers and Crowds	Unfamiliar visitors and large gatherings can be overwhelming and stressful for dogs.	Inform guests about your dog’s boundaries, provide a safe space for retreat, and supervise interactions.
Changes in Routine	Altered schedules, different feeding times, and less exercise can disrupt a dog’s sense of security.	Maintain your dog’s usual routine as closely as possible, including feeding and walking times.
New Decorations and Objects	Holiday decorations and new objects in the home can be confusing and unsettling for dogs.	Introduce new decorations gradually and ensure they are pet-safe.
Restricted Areas	Dogs may feel stressed if they are suddenly restricted from certain areas they are used to accessing.	Use positive reinforcement to train dogs on new boundaries and provide alternative areas for them.
Strong Smells	Scented candles, potpourri, and cooking smells can be overwhelming for a dog’s sensitive nose.	Use unscented or pet-safe products, and ensure good ventilation in areas where strong smells are present.
Travel and Boarding	Traveling or being boarded can cause significant stress due to unfamiliar environments and separation anxiety.	Prepare your dog for travel with short trips, bring familiar items, and choose reputable boarding facilities.
Overstimulation	Excessive attention, petting, and excitement can lead to stress and anxiety in dogs.	Ensure your dog has time to rest and avoid overhandling.
Changes in Owner’s Behavior	Owners may be busier or more stressed, which dogs can sense, leading to their stress.	Spend quality time with your dog, provide reassurance, and manage your stress levels.

Quick Tips for Managing a Dog’s Fear During Holidays 

1. Create a Safe Space

• Do: Set up a quiet, comfortable area with familiar items like their bed, toys, and a blanket. 

• Don’t: Force your dog to stay in a noisy, crowded area. 

2. Use Calming Sounds

• Do: Play calming music or use white noise machines to drown out loud holiday noises. 

• Don’t: Ignore their fear and assume they’ll get used to it. 

3. Maintain a Routine

• Do: Stick to your dog’s regular feeding, walking, and playtime schedule. 

• Don’t: Drastically change their routine, adding to their anxiety. 

4. Provide Comfort and Reassurance

• Do: Stay calm, pet them gently, and use a soothing voice to reassure them. 

• Don’t: Overreact or be overly dramatic, which can increase their stress. 

5. Use Anxiety Aids

• Do: Consider using anxiety wraps, calming collars, or pheromone diffusers. 

• Don’t: Give them medications without consulting a vet first. 

6. Limit Exposure to Triggers

• Do: Keep them indoors, away from fireworks, loud parties, and other stressors. 

• Don’t: Force them to confront their fears head-on, such as taking them outside during fireworks. 

7. Engage in Calming Activities

• Do: Provide interactive toys or engage in gentle play to distract them. 

• Don’t: Overstimulate them with too much activity or noise. 

8. Monitor Their Behavior

• Do: Watch for signs of severe stress, such as excessive panting, shaking, or hiding. 

• Don’t: Ignore signs of extreme anxiety; seek professional help if needed. 

9. Consult a Veterinarian

• Do: Talk to your vet about possible solutions if your dog has severe anxiety. 

• Don’t: Wait until the last minute to seek advice or treatment. 

10. Plan Ahead

• Do: Prepare for known stressors by gradually desensitizing your dog to them well in advance. 

• Don’t: Leave preparations until the day of the holiday. 

Toys and Items to Keep Your Dog Entertained When Alone During Holidays 

Item/Toy	Description	Benefits
Interactive Toys	Toys that dispense treats or have moving parts.	Stimulates your dog’s mind and keeps them busy and engaged.
Puzzle Feeders	Toys are toys where your dog has to figure out how to get treats.	Provides mental stimulation, prolongs feeding time, and reduces boredom.
Chew Toys	Durable toys designed for chewing.	Satisfies natural chewing instincts, reduces anxiety, and promotes dental health.
KONG Toys	Rubber toys that can be filled with treats or peanut butter.	Provides long-lasting entertainment, encourages problem-solving, and soothes chewing desires.
Stuffed Toys	Soft toys that your dog can cuddle and play with.	Offers comfort and companionship, especially for dogs that like to snuggle.
Scented Toys	Toys infused with appealing scents like lavender or chamomile.	Helps reduce anxiety and provides a calming effect.
Automatic Ball Launchers	Devices that throw balls for your dog to fetch.	Keeps active dogs physically engaged and provides exercise.
Treat-Dispensing Cameras	Devices that allow you to monitor and interact with your dog remotely, dispensing treats via an app.	Provides mental stimulation and comfort through your interaction, even when you’re not physically present.
Frozen Treats	Treats or toys that can be frozen.	Provides a refreshing challenge and can help soothe teething discomfort.
Dog TV or Videos	Videos designed specifically for dogs with stimulating images and sounds.	Offers visual and auditory stimulation, reducing loneliness and boredom.
Play Tunnel	Collapsible tunnels for dogs to run through.	Encourages physical activity and exploration, keeping energetic dogs entertained.
Busy Boxes	Boxes or containers with hidden treats or toys inside.	Encourages problem-solving and can keep dogs occupied as they search for hidden items.
Snuffle Mats	Mats with fabric flaps where you can hide kibble or treats.	Promotes natural foraging behavior and provides mental stimulation.

Closing Thoughts 

The holiday season is a wonderful time for celebration and joy, but it’s important to remember the needs of our furry friends during these busy times. By taking proactive steps to ensure your dog’s safety, comfort, and entertainment, you can prevent stress and potential hazards. From providing a quiet retreat and engaging toys to maintaining routines and preparing for noisy festivities, these efforts will help your dog feel secure and loved. 

Remember, a happy and relaxed dog contributes to a joyful holiday atmosphere for everyone. By planning ahead and being mindful of your pet’s needs, you can ensure that the holidays are a positive experience for both you and your dog. Here’s to a safe, stress-free, and joyous holiday season with your beloved pet!