The holidays are a joyous time filled with family, friends, delicious food, and festive decorations. However, amidst the celebrations, it’s surprisingly easy for pets to land themselves in trouble, especially by eating things they shouldn’t. Quick action matters, and having a clear plan can make all the difference.

We're creating this blog post as a guide to walk you through the hidden holiday dangers most pet parents overlook, what to do immediately if your pet ingests something risky, and how to create a safer environment during the busiest season of the year. Be sure to have it handy over the holidays to help keep your pets safe AND to know what to do if something goes wrong. 

You can also listen to our previous podcast episode, Holiday Hazards That Could Harm Your Pet, featuring emergency veterinarian Dr. Tyler Sugerman-McGiffin, right here:
❄️ https://www.petparenthotline.com/holiday-hazards-that-could-harm-your-pet/

And don’t miss our NEW update dropping Dec 7: Hidden Holiday Hazards 2.0: Dangers Your Guests Bring Into Your Home
❄️ https://www.petparenthotline.com/holiday-hazards-uncommon-pet-dangers

Why Holiday Accidents Happen

The holiday season brings chaos, including increased foot traffic (think open doors and escaped pets), irresistible smells, new, irresistible décor, and plenty of distractions. Pets notice every change, and just like your nosey Uncle Dave, they're busybodies, but unlike Dave and his 100 questions, pets investigate with their mouths and get themselves into big trouble.

Between unsupervised moments, tempting food within reach, craft projects, shopping bags, and guests who don’t understand pet safety, accidents happen fast. Understanding the “why” helps you stay one step ahead.

Hidden Holiday Dangers You Might Not Know About

Most pet parents know about chocolate, grapes, tinsel, and tree water. But the holidays introduce a whole lineup of lesser-known hazards that can send pets to the ER.

Here are some of the big ones:

1. Dangerous Holiday Foods

Even small amounts can cause serious issues:

• Chocolate (especially dark) – toxic to dogs and cats
• Grapes/raisins – cause kidney failure
• Onions/garlic – can trigger anemia
• Macadamia nuts – cause tremors and weakness
• Xylitol – extremely toxic, leads to low blood sugar and liver failure

Keep desserts, candy dishes, charcuterie boards, and snack trays far out of reach. And remind guests not to “treat” your pet without asking.

2. Hazardous Holiday Decorations

Décor can look like toys to pets:

• Tinsel, ribbon, string – can cause intestinal blockages
• String lights – chewing risks and electrical burns
• Glass ornaments – break into sharp pieces
• Tree needles – GI irritation
• Tree stand water – may contain fertilizers and bacteria

A little rearranging goes a long way.

3. Guest-Related Dangers

Guests unintentionally bring hazards you never planned for:

• Medications in purses or suitcases
• Sugar-free mints or gum
• THC edibles or vape devices
• Small gifts, candy, or craft materials
• Open bags left on the floor
• Doors left ajar during arrivals

These “people hazards” are responsible for more unexpected holiday vet visits than many realize.

What to Do If Your Pet Eats Something Dangerous

Act fast and stay calm.

Step 1: Gather the facts

What did they eat?
How much?
When?
Keep packaging, take a photo, or save any remaining pieces.

Step 2: Remove access

Move your pet away and clean up whatever’s left to prevent further ingestion.

Step 3: Check for symptoms

Look for vomiting, diarrhea, shaking, wobbly movement, drooling, seizures, or “not acting like themselves.”

Step 4: Do NOT induce vomiting unless instructed

Some substances cause more damage coming back up. Always get guidance first.

When to Contact ASPCA Poison Control

If you suspect your pet has eaten something dangerous and you’re unsure what to do next, call the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center. They are staffed 24/7 with toxicologists and veterinarians who can walk you through exactly what steps to take based on your pet’s size, the suspected toxin, and how long it’s been.

ASPCA Poison Control: (888) 426-4435
A consultation fee does apply, but the guidance can save valuable time and potentially save your pet’s life.

They can help you:
• Determine whether vomiting is safe or dangerous
• Estimate toxicity based on your pet’s weight
• Create a treatment plan before you reach the vet
• Decide whether this is a “wait and watch” situation or an “act now” emergency

Save the number in your phone now so you aren’t scrambling when seconds matter.

Creating a Safe Space During the Holidays

A stress-free zone can prevent accidents and meltdowns:

• Set up a quiet room stocked with food, water, toys, and a comfy bed
• Use crates or baby gates for pets who are already comfortable with them
• Keep doors closed during arrivals and departures
• Add white noise or calming music
• Use pheromone diffusers or vet-approved calming aids
• Ask guests to be thoughtful about your pet’s space

An overwhelmed pet is a pet more likely to make a risky choice.

Additional Tips for a Safer Holiday Season

• Store all toxic foods and items out of reach
• Secure décor, especially your Christmas Tree if you have one, so it isn’t easily pulled down
• Supervise pets (and relatives who like to sneak treats) closely during cooking and meals
• Keep ID tags and microchips current
• Stick to normal feeding and walking routines
• Give pets exercise and enrichment
• Educate guests briefly about pet safety
• Consider a pet sitter or boarding for hectic gatherings, especially if you have anxious pets

Bonus Episode: Managing Holiday Guests (Dec 3)

Holiday guests can be… a lot.

Our special Quick Fix episode airing December 3 shares simple ways to set expectations, reduce chaos, and keep both pets and people out of the drama zone.

To Wrap Things Up

The holidays should be joyful, not stressful. With a little planning and awareness, you can enjoy the season while keeping your pets safe. Know the dangers, trust your instincts, and act quickly when something seems off.

Be sure to listen to:

❄️Holiday Hazards That Could Harm Your Pet: Tips from an ER Vet to Avoid the ER
https://www.petparenthotline.com/holiday-hazards-that-could-harm-your-pet/

And coming December 7:

❄️ Hidden Holiday Hazards 2.0: Dangers Your Guests Bring Into Your Home
https://www.petparenthotline.com/holiday-hazards-uncommon-pet-dangers

Wishing you and your pets a safe, happy, drama-free holiday season!