Pawliday Prep for Peace of Mind: How to Keep Pets Safe, Calm & Merry This Season

The holidays are all about cozy gatherings, twinkling lights, and shared moments with the ones we love—our pets included. But between extra guests, tempting treats, and festive chaos, the season can bring a few hidden hazards for our furry family members. Whether you’re hosting at home or packing up for a trip, a little pawliday prep goes a long way toward keeping tails wagging and whiskers stress-free.

Here’s how to make your celebrations joyful and pet-safe from start to finish:

1. What are some of the pet hazards to watch out for when you’re inviting guests to spend the holiday with you and your pets?

During the holiday, pets can encounter a number of hazards. Some common pet hazards during the holidays include unfamiliar or toxic foods, decorations, and changes in routine. Guests might accidentally drop or offer foods that are toxic to pets, such as chocolate, onions, grapes, or even alcohol. Decorations like tinsel, ribbons, candles, and electrical cords can also pose choking or burn risks to our pets. Additionally, open doors as guests coming in and out can make it easier for pets to slip outside. Extra guests may also unintentionally stress them or encourage unwanted behaviors, stress from noise, crowds, or new scents can also affect their behaviour and apetitte. Creating a safe space is essential for the entire family avoiding unexpected stressful events for the future holidays and moments to enjoy with them.

2. What can pet parents do to prep ahead of time?

Pet parents can prepare ahead by setting up a quiet, safe space where their pets can retreat if they feel overwhelmed. Understanding your pet’s behavior and recognizing their stress signals during potentially challenging events is important for predicting their state and responding appropriately. It’s also helpful to keep routines as normal as possible, including feeding, walks, and playtime.

Make sure pets have updated ID tags or microchips in case they slip out. Before guests arrive, remove or secure any decorations, foods, or plants that could be hazardous if left unattended. Let visitors know your house rules—such as not feeding the pets or keeping certain doors closed—to help keep everyone safe and stress-free.

For particularly anxious pets, consider discussing safe calming strategies with your veterinarian. There are several medications and techniques that can help pets feel secure during stressful events, but it’s important to know in advance whether these options are effective for your specific pet, as, like in humans, different medications can work better for different individuals.

3. What’s important to communicate to guests about ground rules for pets?

It’s important to kindly set expectations with guests before they arrive. Let them know not to feed your pets any table scraps or treats without checking with you first, as many holiday foods can be harmful. Avoid an expected behaviour due triggers, like fear of loud noises or strangers helps prevent accidents and stress free. Remind guests to keep doors and gates closed so pets don’t slip out, and to avoid picking up or crowding animals that seem nervous. If your pet has specific routines or areas that are off-limits, share those details early or even ask your guest previously how they feel around pets. Clear, friendly communication is key, helps everyone enjoy the visit while keeping your pets comfortable and safe. Setting expectations ensures both pets and visitors enjoy a safe, comfortable holiday.

4. What can you do to help prepare your pet?

Gradually acclimating pets, you can help your pet prepare by introducing small changes before guests arrive, like new sounds, scents, or furniture arrangements so nothing feels sudden. Give them plenty of exercise and mental stimulation in the days leading up to the visit, which can help reduce stress. Make sure their routine stays as consistent as possible, and have familiar items like their bed, toys, or blanket available for comfort or even a room where they can go if they feel they need it. If your pet is especially anxious, talk to your veterinarian about calming aids or strategies to make the holiday smoother for everyone.

5. What about traveling with your pet—what can you do to make sure you and your pet are good guests?

Planning is essential for stress-free travel. When traveling with your pet, plan ahead to ensure a smooth visit. Ensure vaccinations and travel documentation are up-to-date. Bring all the essentials, food, water, medications, bedding, and toys; to keep your them comfortable. Acclimate pets to carriers or travel crates ahead of time. Make sure your pet is properly identified with an updated ID tag or microchip, and follow any house rules your hosts have, like keeping pets off furniture or in designated areas. Keep your pet’s routine as normal as possible, and clean up after them promptly. Being prepared and respectful helps both your pet and your hosts have a stress-free holiday.

At PadsPass, we believe that peace of mind is the best gift you can give your pet. The Digital Pet Passport helps you stay organized, compliant, and ready—whether you’re welcoming guests or heading off on a holiday getaway. Store your pet’s health records, share access with co-parents, and keep everything you need for smooth, stress-free travel right at your fingertips.

🎁 Download PadsPass today and make this pawliday season the safest (and happiest) one yet!