Get Ready for the Holidays: Pet-Safe Decorations for Your Home

The holidays are a time of joy, decorations, and celebrations, but they can also introduce hidden dangers for pets. As we transform our homes with twinkling lights, festive plants, and holiday scents, it’s essential to consider how our furry friends interact with these new elements. With a bit of planning, you can ensure your home stays merry and bright—and pet-friendly—throughout the season.

Choose Pet-Safe Holiday Plants

Festive plants such as poinsettias, mistletoe, and holly add beauty to holiday décor but can be toxic to pets if ingested. Even non-toxic plants can cause digestive upset if dogs or cats nibble on them. Opt for pet-safe alternatives like Christmas cactus or artificial versions of your favorite seasonal greenery. If you prefer real plants, keep them in areas that are out of reach to avoid any temptation for curious noses.

Keep Cords and Wires Out of Reach

Holiday lights are a magical part of the season, but the cords can pose a chewing hazard for pets. Puppies and kittens, in particular, may be drawn to the texture and movement of dangling wires. Electrical cords can lead to burns or even electrocution if chewed. To prevent accidents, run cords along walls or use cord covers. You can also secure them with tape or fasteners to keep them out of reach and discourage chewing.

Secure Your Tree for Stability

Christmas trees are often the centerpiece of holiday décor, but they can be tempting climbing structures for cats or potential topple hazards for curious dogs. To avoid accidents, make sure your tree is securely anchored. A heavy tree base can provide stability. If your pet is especially curious, consider setting up a pet gate around the tree to prevent them from getting too close.

Choose Pet-Friendly Ornaments and Decorations

Shiny ornaments, ribbons, and garlands can be irresistible to pets, but many common holiday decorations are fragile and unsafe. Glass ornaments can shatter if knocked off the tree, creating sharp edges, while tinsel and ribbons can cause intestinal blockages if ingested. Opt for pet-friendly decorations made of fabric, wood, or shatter-proof materials. Hanging ornaments higher up on the tree also helps keep them out of reach, especially for younger pets who may be tempted to swat or chew.

Scented Candles and Essential Oils: Use with Caution

The cozy glow of candles and the fragrance of essential oils add warmth to the holiday season, but they can pose risks to pets. Pets can knock over candles, leading to burns or fire hazards, and some essential oils are toxic if inhaled or ingested by animals. If you use candles, place them in locations your pet cannot access, or switch to flameless, battery-operated versions. When using essential oils, ensure that they are pet-safe, and always diffuse them in well-ventilated spaces.

Avoid Food-Based Decorations

Edible decorations like popcorn garlands or candy-filled ornaments may seem charming, but they can attract unwanted attention from your pets. Some foods commonly used in holiday displays—like chocolate, nuts, or dried fruits—are toxic to pets. Even non-toxic items, like unseasoned popcorn, can pose choking hazards or upset your pet’s stomach. It’s best to avoid food-based decorations altogether or reserve them for pet-free spaces.

Monitor Holiday Gatherings and Visitors

The holidays often bring an influx of visitors, which can be both exciting and stressful for pets. With so many new people coming and going, it’s easy to overlook open doors or misplaced items, such as medication in travel bags or holiday treats left unattended. Make sure your pet has a quiet, safe space to retreat to during gatherings and keep an eye on guests to ensure they aren’t accidentally offering harmful foods or leaving hazardous items within reach. If your pet is cooped up while your guests are visiting, you may want to provide some fun enrichment activities at home.

Celebrate Safely with Your Pet

Decorating for the holidays doesn’t mean compromising your pet’s safety. By being mindful of potential hazards and making small adjustments, you can create a festive environment that’s safe for everyone. From choosing pet-friendly decorations to anchoring your tree and managing visitors, a little forethought goes a long way in ensuring a joyful holiday season. With your pet’s safety in mind, you can focus on what matters most: celebrating the season with your loved ones—both two- and four-legged.

Consider Boarding Your Pet at Pawesome Pets Country Club

If the holiday hustle feels overwhelming or if your pet struggles with the added excitement of visitors and decorations, consider boarding them at Pawesome Pets Country Club for a few days. Boarding can provide a stress-free environment where your pet can relax and enjoy enrichment activities while you focus on your holiday preparations and festivities. Our experienced staff will ensure your pet feels comfortable and loved, giving you peace of mind throughout the season.

If you’re looking for dog boarding, cat boarding, or small pet boarding, book now! Not sure what boarding option you need? Contact us!