Christmas Eve is a magical time for families… including our furry friends! But the holidays can also be stressful and dangerous for pets if we’re not careful. From festive foods to decorations and holiday visitors, there’s a lot to think about. That’s why PetWorks has put together 12 essential tips to keep your pets safe, happy, and included in the holiday cheer this Christmas Eve.
1. Avoid Dangerous Holiday Foods
Chocolate, grapes, raisins, macadamia nuts, and alcohol can all be toxic to pets. Even small amounts can cause serious health problems. Instead, stick to pet-safe treats or make homemade goodies like pumpkin biscuits or peanut butter cookies (without xylitol). Consult with an animal nutritionist for more detailed information on safe foods and foods to avoid.
2. Watch Out for Decorations
Ornaments, tinsel, and fairy lights may look festive, but they can be hazardous if ingested. Keep fragile decorations out of reach, secure cords, and never leave candles unattended around pets.
3. Keep Holiday Gatherings Stress-Free
Pets can get anxious with extra guests. Set up a quiet, safe space with their favorite bed, toys, and maybe some calming music. Offering treats and attention in this safe zone can help your pets feel included but secure.
4. Winter Walk Safety
Cold weather, ice, and snow can be tough on pets’ paws. Use protective booties, keep walks shorter, and always wipe paws after returning home to remove ice melt or salt.
Are you finding this article useful? Would you like 100% free access to more articles like these, and free access to over 5,000 vetted pet care service professionals throughout the United States? Sign up here for a free Petworks account, and we’ll email you a 10% discount code, good towards your first pet care services booking on Petworks!
5. Fun, Pet-Friendly Holiday Activities
Include your pet in the festivities! Try a holiday photoshoot, make a pet stocking, or introduce safe, interactive games. Capture moments to share on social media. You’ll make friends and family smile.
6. Gift Ideas Your Pets Will Love
From cozy beds to chew toys or puzzle feeders, holiday gifts can stimulate and entertain your pet. Avoid toys with small pieces that could be swallowed.
7. Traveling With Pets
If you’re traveling, plan ahead. Bring a travel kit with food, water, favorite toys, and vaccination records. Consider PetWorks’ guidance on stress-free flight travel and safety tips.
8. Keep Emergency Contacts Handy
Accidents happen. Have your vet, local pet hospital, and poison control numbers saved and easily accessible. Quick action can make a huge difference.
9. DIY Holiday Fun
Create homemade toys or treats using pet-safe ingredients. Even a simple cardboard box or paper bag can become a festive play zone for curious cats or dogs.
10. Protect Your Pet’s Routine
Pets thrive on consistency. Stick to normal feeding and walking schedules as much as possible. A predictable routine helps reduce anxiety during holiday chaos.
“The holidays can be exciting for families, but they can also pose hidden risks for pets. From toxic foods to decorations, simple precautions can keep pets safe and happy. Planning ahead, maintaining routines, and including your pets in festive activities helps reduce stress and ensures everyone enjoys the holiday safely.” – Sara L. Bennett, DVM, MS, DACVB
11. Local Pet-Friendly Christmas Options
Check for nearby holiday events where pets are welcome—dog-friendly caroling, pet-friendly Santa photo ops, or festive walking tours. Make the holiday magical for your pet, too!
12. Highlight Your PetWorks Services
For pets needing extra care during the holidays, PetWorks offers training, boarding, and stress-reduction tips to ensure everyone enjoys a safe, happy Christmas Eve.
FAQs: Christmas Eve Pet Safety
Can my dog eat holiday treats like cookies or candy?
No. Chocolate, raisins, nuts, and alcohol can be toxic. Stick to pet-safe treats or homemade goodies designed for dogs and cats.
How can I reduce my pet’s stress during holiday gatherings?
Create a quiet space with their bed, toys, and water. Maintain regular routines and give extra attention or calming treats to help them feel secure.
Are holiday decorations dangerous for pets?
Yes. Ornaments, tinsel, lights, and candles can be hazardous if ingested or knocked over. Keep decorations out of reach and supervise pets around them.
With a little planning and awareness, Christmas Eve can be a joyful time for the whole family—including your pets. Follow these 12 tips from PetWorks to keep tails wagging, paws safe, and hearts full this holiday season. Share your holiday pet photos with us online—we love seeing furry friends join the celebration!
About Petworks
In 2021, Dr. Marty Goldstein DVM joined the pet care platform Petworks as an advisor in its Animal Nutrition care division. Dr Marty Nature’s Blend is on a mission to help your pets live their healthiest lives possible. Dr. Marty’s pet nutrition expertise and guidance has helped Petworks evolve and become the preeminent animal and pet nutrition consultation service for pet parents in North America.
In 2022, Blue Buffalo Founder Bill Bishop Jr. joined Petworks as Senior Advisor in our Animal Nutrition Care Division. Bill brings his extensive expertise in pet food innovation and business leadership. His guidance helps Petworks enhance our pet nutrition service offerings, helping to ensure that pet parents throughout the world receive trusted, science-backed nutritional support for their dogs, cats, and animals.
Petworks Co-Founder Kevin Kinyon is a life-long animal lover who works tirelessly to improve the lives of pets and their parents. Human and animal qualities he values most are integrity, humor, and empathy.
