HOLIDAY PET SAFETY

Human Holiday Foods that Are Dangerous to Pets

The holidays are a wonderful time to snuggle up with our furry friends, but many popular human holiday treats can pose serious danger to pets. While celebrating this year, be sure to keep these foods well out of reach of curious pets!

Chocolate

can cause gastrointestinal, neurologic and heart problems.

Mixed alcoholic beverages

can cause alcohol poisoning in pets.

Sugar-free candies, gum and baked goods containing Xylitol

can cause low blood sugar and liver problems for dogs.

Raisins and grapes

can cause kidney failure for dogs.

Turkey and ham bones

may lead to dangerous foreign-body obstructions.

Onions and garlic

can cause anemia and secondary kidney injury.

Raw bread dough

can cause electrolyte imbalances, tremors and bloat.

Please note: These are the most common holiday foods that can cause life-threatening issues when ingested by pets. For more information, contact the ASPCA’s Animal Poison Control Center at 1-888-426-4435 or visit aspca.org/apcc.

Holiday Pet Safety Tips

Tinsel.

Don’t use tinsel. Your pets really get into the holiday spirit by playing with shiny tinsel, but if they swallow any, it could be bad. Swallowing tinsel can lead to an obstructed digestive tract, vomiting or dehydration. They may even need surgery.

Mistletoe.

While the romantic holiday tradition is sweet, the plant itself can be toxic to pets. Eating the berries and leaves can cause gastrointestinal upset and even cardiovascular problems. It’s best to stick to the fake stuff.

Lights, ornaments and more.

Pets have a way of getting into everything, so keep your holiday lights, electric decor, ornaments and batteries away from them. If your pet chews on something like holiday lights, they risk getting an electric shock, which could be lethal.

Candles.

Don’t leave candles burning where your pets can access them. They could burn themselves or knock them over and start a house fire. Candles should always be on a stable surface when in use. Always blow out candles when you leave the room. And be “pawsitive” they are all completely out before going to bed!

Hustle and bustle.

The hustle and bustle of the holidays can make your pets anxious, which can affect their behavior. If you have house guests or excess noise in your house, make sure your pet has a quiet room of their own to relax, with water to drink. And give them extra love and hugs to reassure them they are safe!

Fireworks.

Fireworks and similar loud sounds are scary for many dogs and even some cats. Help them feel safe by following these steps:

Prepare a safe and cozy hiding place (familiar room or create).
Leave your pet with a sitter if you plan to be gone.
Close windows and doors to muffle sounds and block visual stimulants. Put on soothing music to further muffle the booms.
Ask your vet about medication to ease extreme pet anxiety.