Keeping Your Fuzzy Family Safe This Holiday Season

Ah, Christmas. Twinkling lights, festive feasts, and all the shiny things your pets really want to eat.

At Barrett Veterinary Practice, we love this time of year—there’s something magical about snowy mornings, steaming mugs, and a snoozing dog by the fire. But for our four-legged friends, the holidays can also mean a lot of temptations (and a few unexpected vet visits). Just ask the very enthusiastic pup who recently came in after swallowing nine feet of tinsel. Yes, nine. Apparently, it looked like “endless pasta.” (We get it, buddy. We do.)

So how can you celebrate safely while still including your fuzzy family in the festivities? 

Holiday Hazards: What to Watch For

Here are a few common Christmas troublemakers and how to avoid an emergency:

Tinsel, Ribbons & Ornaments

They’re sparkly. They move. They must be toys… right? Cats and curious dogs love batting and biting these decorations. But swallowing them can lead to serious intestinal blockages.

Tip: Skip the tinsel this year—or hang it high, well out of paw’s reach. Same goes for ribbon on presents and fragile glass ornaments.

Festive Plants

Mistletoe, holly, and poinsettias are classic Christmas décor, but they can be toxic to pets (especially cats). Even pine needles from your tree can cause stomach upset if chewed.

Tip: Opt for pet-safe plants or place them where your pets can’t nibble.

Chocolate & Holiday Treats

Chocolate, xylitol (a sugar substitute in some baked goods), grapes, and raisins are all big no-nos for dogs and cats.

Tip: Keep human goodies well out of reach and remind guests not to sneak treats under the table—no matter how convincing those puppy eyes are.

Christmas Trees & Candles

Trees can topple if climbed, and candles are fascinating (and flammable). Even the water at the base of your tree may contain chemicals that can make your pet sick.

Tip: Secure your tree, never leave lit candles unattended, and cover the tree water if your pet likes to drink from odd places.

Holiday Treats They Can Enjoy

Now for the fun stuff! The holidays are all about sharing, and yes—your pets can have a taste of the season too (safely!).

For Dogs: 

• A little plain turkey or chicken (no bones, no seasoning) 
• Frozen pumpkin or apple purée in a Kong 
• “Pupcakes” or dog-safe cookies from a local pet bakery

For Cats: 

• A small nibble of cooked turkey or tuna 
• Catnip-stuffed toys for that festive zoomie energy 
• Warm blankets placed by a sunny window (ultimate gift)

For Horses & Goats: 

• Carrot and apple slices (in moderation) 
• A new salt lick or enrichment toy 
• Extra brushes and scratches—our four-hooved friends love a bit of holiday spa treatment too

Include Them in the Fun 

• Let your dog “open” their own present (wrap it loosely!) 
• Make your cat a cardboard box maze with paper balls inside 
• Take holiday photos—antlers optional, treats mandatory 
• Don’t forget an extra cuddle or barn visit. That’s the best gift of all.

When in Doubt, Give Us a Call

If you’re ever unsure whether something’s safe, we’re just a phone call away. Whether it’s about something your dog just scarfed off the floor, or your goat’s gotten a little too curious about the twinkle lights, we’re here to help.

Barrett Veterinary Practice
224210 Range Road 284, Rocky View, Alberta 

📞 403-860-5763 🌐 barrettvet.ca

From all of us at Barrett Veterinary Practice we wish you a safe, joyful, and wonderfully fuzzy holiday season.

Want more festive pet safety tips and behind-the-scenes moments from the clinic? Follow us on social: 📸 Instagram: @barrettveterinarypractice👍 Facebook: Barrett Veterinary Practice