Dog Toxic Hazards & Safety

Holiday Decorations

When dressing your pet for holiday photos, choose costumes that allow for easy movement and comfort. Pets are curious and attracted to shiny decorations. Help keep them safe by opting for shatterproof ornaments, avoiding tinsel and hanging small or salt-dough ornaments high and out of reach. After opening gifts, be sure to quickly dispose of wrapping paper, bows and string, as they can be choking hazards.

Food and Drinks

Always keep food and drinks out of your pet’s reach. Remind your guests not to give your pet any treats, especially those containing chocolate, grapes, raisins, xylitol or meat scraps, as these can be especially harmful. Pack away any leftover food as soon as possible. Pets quickly absorb alcohol, which can lead to alcohol poisoning, so keep beverages out of reach as well.

Candles and Burns

Open flames pose serious burn risks. Maintain a safe distance between pets and sources of heat such as fireplaces and wood stoves, as curiosity can lead them to get too close, and keep candles and festive lights out of reach. Never leave a candle or fire unattended, even for a short period, as this can quickly escalate into a dangerous situation for you and your pets.

Plants and Trees

While holiday trees are generally nontoxic, the water in the tree stand can pose a risk, as it may contain bacteria, mold or fertilizers. To prevent your pet from drinking this water, consider using a tree skirt. Additionally, festive plants such as poinsettias, mistletoe, lilies, holly and amaryllis can cause gastrointestinal upset if ingested. Keep these plants out of reach of curious pets.

Cold Weather Walking

Keep dogs on a non retractable leash when walking in the early morning and late evening hours. Both you and your pet should wear high-visibility gear, and it’s important to avoid paths, roads and trails with limited lighting.
If you’re in an area with snow and ice, be extra cautious in poor conditions and monitor the wind chill. Dress your pet warmly with a sweater, jacket and booties to help them be more comfortable in the cold.