Holiday Pet Safety Tips: How to Keep Your Dog or Cat Healthy This Season
The holiday season in New York City brings sparkling lights, festive gatherings, and plenty of excitement. But while we celebrate, our pets often face new hazards—decorations, cold weather, rich foods, and loud environments can all impact their health.
At ABC Animal Hospital in the East Village, we want to help your pets stay safe, comfortable, and stress-free throughout the holidays. Here are the top veterinarian-approved tips to keep your furry family members healthy this season.
1. Keep Holiday Foods Out of Reach
Many seasonal dishes and treats are unsafe for pets. Common holiday hazards include:
Chocolate and baked goods
Grapes, raisins, and currants
Xylitol (found in sugar-free gum and candies)
Fatty meats and leftovers that cause pancreatitis
Alcoholic beverages
Onions, garlic, and certain herbs
If you’re hosting, remind guests not to feed table scraps—and keep trash securely closed. If your pet ingests something concerning, contact us immediately.
2. Pet-Proof Your Holiday Decor
Festive decorations look beautiful, but they can pose risks:
Tinsel, ribbon, and string can cause intestinal blockages (especially for cats).
Glass ornaments can break and injure paws.
Christmas tree water may contain fertilizers or bacteria.
Candles and menorahs can be dangerous if knocked over.
Secure your tree, avoid dangling ornaments near the bottom, and opt for pet-safe décor when possible.
3. Protect Your Pet from Cold Weather
NYC winters can be harsh—especially for small breeds, short-haired dogs, and senior pets. To keep them warm and healthy:
Limit outdoor time on freezing days
Use sweaters or jackets for extra protection
Always wipe paws after walks (salt can irritate skin and cause ingestion issues)
Make sure your pet has a warm, draft-free sleeping area
If you notice limping, cracked paw pads, or shivering, let us know—these may be signs of cold-related discomfort.
4. Create a Calm Space During Gatherings
Holiday parties can be overwhelming. Loud music, visitors, and new smells may trigger stress or anxiety. Provide your pet with:
A quiet room or cozy corner
Their favorite bed or toy
Fresh water and familiar scents
Breaks for walks or playtime
If your pet struggles with anxiety, ask us about calming techniques, supplements, or safe medications.
5. Update Microchips & Identification Before Traveling
If you're traveling for the holidays, ensure your pet’s microchip and tags are up to date with your current contact information. This is especially important during a busy season when lost pets increase.
Our team can help you verify or update microchip information during a quick visit.
6. Schedule a Year-End Wellness Check
The end of the year is a great time to make sure your pet is healthy heading into winter. A wellness exam helps us catch early signs of:
Dental disease
Allergies or skin irritation
Weight gain during the colder months
Joint pain or arthritis
Underlying conditions that may worsen with seasonal stress
Booking ahead helps avoid the holiday rush and ensures your pet gets the care they need.
Why NYC Pet Parents Trust ABC Animal Hospital
For over 20 years, ABC Animal Hospital has provided compassionate, personalized care to pets across the East Village and beyond. Our experienced team is here to support you through every season—offering wellness exams, diagnostics, grooming, surgery, and urgent care when needed.
We’re committed to keeping your pets safe, healthy, and happy during the holiday season and all year long.