What to Do if Your Pet Eats Something They Shouldn’t During the Holidays

The holidays are a joyous time filled with family, friends, delicious food, and festive decorations. However, amidst the celebrations, it's easy for our furry companions to find themselves in sticky situations, especially when it comes to ingesting things they shouldn't. Accidents happen, and knowing how to respond quickly and effectively can make all the difference. This blog post will guide you through the common holiday dangers for pets, what to do immediately if your pet eats something they shouldn’t, and how to create a safer environment for your beloved animals. You can also listen to our latest podcast episode, Holiday Hazards That Could Harm Your Pet, where we team up with emergency veterinarian Dr. Tyler Sugerman-McGiffin to dive even deeper into protecting your pets during the holidays.

Introduction: Why Holiday Accidents Happen

The holiday season brings a flurry of activity that can disrupt your pet's normal routine. Increased foot traffic, open doors, tempting smells, and colorful decorations all contribute to a higher risk of accidental ingestion. Pets, especially dogs, are naturally curious and opportunistic eaters. They might sniff out unattended food, be drawn to shiny objects, or simply mistake something on the floor for a chew toy. Understanding why these accidents happen is the first step in preventing them. Holidays often involve more unsupervised time for pets as owners are busy with guests or distracted by other activities. By being aware of these factors, you can take proactive steps to minimize the risks.

Top Hidden Holiday Dangers for Pets

Several holiday-specific items pose a threat to your pet's health. Knowing what these dangers are can help you keep them out of reach. Here are some of the most common culprits:

Dangerous Foods to Watch Out For

Holiday feasts are full of delicious treats, but many of them are toxic to pets. Chocolate, especially dark chocolate, contains theobromine, which is poisonous to dogs and cats. Grapes and raisins, often found in holiday desserts, can cause kidney failure in dogs. Onions and garlic, common ingredients in many dishes, can damage red blood cells and lead to anemia. Macadamia nuts can cause weakness, tremors, and hyperthermia. Finally, foods containing the sweetener xylitol, commonly found in sugar-free baked goods and candies, are extremely toxic and can cause a rapid drop in blood sugar and liver failure.

Risks from Holiday Decorations

While decorations add festive cheer, they can also be hazardous. Tinsel, ribbons, and string lights are tempting for pets to play with, but if ingested, they can cause intestinal blockages. Christmas tree needles, both real and artificial, can irritate the digestive tract. Ornaments, especially glass ones, can break and cause cuts or internal injuries if swallowed. Water in Christmas tree stands may contain fertilizers and bacteria harmful to pets.

Other Potential Hazards (Guests, Noise, etc.)

The holiday season isn't just about food and decorations. Guests coming and going can inadvertently leave doors open, allowing pets to escape. Loud noises from parties or fireworks can cause anxiety and stress, leading pets to act out or try to hide, potentially getting into dangerous situations. Changes in routine and environment can also upset pets, making them more prone to accidents. It's essential to consider these non-physical hazards and take steps to mitigate them.

What to Do Immediately If Your Pet Eats Something They Shouldn't

If you suspect your pet has ingested something harmful, quick action is crucial. First, try to remain calm. Panicking won't help you or your pet. Assess the situation and gather as much information as possible. What did your pet eat? How much did they eat? When did they eat it? This information will be valuable to your veterinarian or the ASPCA Poison Control Center. If the substance is still visible, try to collect a sample or take a picture of the packaging.

Next, remove the remaining substance from your pet's reach and prevent them from ingesting any more. Check your pet for any immediate signs of distress, such as vomiting, diarrhea, difficulty breathing, or seizures. Do not attempt to induce vomiting unless specifically instructed to do so by a veterinarian or poison control expert. Inducing vomiting can be dangerous in certain situations, such as if your pet has ingested a corrosive substance or is having difficulty breathing.

When to Contact ASPCA Poison Control

The ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (APCC) is a valuable resource for pet owners. They have toxicologists and veterinarians available 24/7 to provide expert advice on managing poisonings and toxic exposures in animals. You should contact the APCC immediately if you suspect your pet has ingested a potentially toxic substance and you're unsure of the next steps. The APCC can help you assess the risk, determine if treatment is necessary, and guide you on what to do until you can get your pet to a veterinarian. You can reach them at (888) 426-4435. Note that a consultation fee may apply. Keep this number handy during the holiday season in case of emergencies. It’s also recommended to pre-program it into your phone.

Preparing a Stress-Free Space for Your Pet During Celebrations

Creating a safe and comfortable space for your pet can significantly reduce their stress during the holidays. Designate a quiet room or area where your pet can retreat to if they feel overwhelmed. This space should be stocked with their favorite toys, bed, food, and water. Make sure the space is secure and free from any potential hazards. Consider using a crate or carrier if your pet is already comfortable with it. This can provide a sense of security and prevent them from wandering into areas where they might encounter danger.

Before guests arrive, familiarize your pet with their scent. Allow them to sniff some of their belongings. During the celebration, encourage guests to avoid overwhelming your pet with attention. Teach children how to interact with your pet gently and respectfully. If your pet is particularly anxious around strangers, keep them in their safe space during the busiest parts of the gathering. White noise or calming music can help drown out loud noises and create a more relaxing atmosphere. Pheromone diffusers or sprays, such as those containing dog appeasing pheromones or Feliway for cats, can also help reduce anxiety. Consult with your veterinarian about other anti-anxiety options, such as medications or supplements.

Additional Tips for a Safe and Happy Holiday Season

Prevention is key to keeping your pet safe during the holidays. Here are some additional tips to help you avoid potential disasters:

• Keep all potentially toxic foods and substances out of reach. Store them in sealed containers and place them on high shelves or in locked cabinets.
• Secure decorations so they can't be easily pulled down or chewed on. Use pet-safe decorations whenever possible.
• Supervise your pet closely, especially when guests are present or when food is being prepared.
• Be mindful of open doors and windows. Make sure your pet is wearing identification tags and is microchipped in case they escape.
• Provide plenty of exercise and mental stimulation to help your pet burn off excess energy and reduce boredom.
• Stick to your pet's regular feeding schedule and routine as much as possible.
• Educate your guests about which foods and substances are harmful to pets. Ask them not to feed your pet without your permission.
• Consider boarding your pet or using a pet sitter if you're hosting a large gathering and can't provide adequate supervision.

Bonus Episode Mention: Managing Holiday Guests

One of the most stressful aspects of the holidays for many pet owners is managing guests, especially those who may not be comfortable around animals or who don't understand pet boundaries. We have a bonus episode dedicated to this topic. In this Quick Fix episode, we share simple ways to set expectations, create boundaries, and shut down holiday drama before it even starts. Listen in and keep everyone in your house off the naughty list! (Available December 3rd)

Conclusion: Enjoying the Holidays with Your Pet Safely

The holidays should be a time of joy and celebration for the whole family, including your pets. By understanding the potential dangers, taking proactive steps to prevent accidents, and knowing what to do in an emergency, you can ensure a safe and happy holiday season for your furry friends. Remember to prioritize their well-being, provide them with a stress-free environment, and keep potentially harmful substances out of their reach. We hope this blog post has provided you with valuable information and practical tips. For more in-depth advice and insights, be sure to check out our latest podcast episode, Holiday Hazards That Could Harm Your Pet, where we delve into these topics with Dr. Tyler Sugerman-McGiffin. By being prepared and informed, you can relax and enjoy the holidays with your beloved pets by your side. Happy Holidays!