How to Safely Include Your Pets in the Holidays (Without Stress or Chaos!)

The holidays are magical — twinkling lights, warm blankets, hot chocolate, family gatherings… and of course, our beloved pets weaving themselves into every part of the celebration. Whether you have a goofy dog, a shy rescue cat, or a whole household full of furry personalities, your pets deserve to feel equally loved and included this season.

But as cozy as the holidays look on the outside, they can be overwhelming for our pets. New smells, visitors, noise, and decorations can lead to stress or even dangerous situations if we’re not careful. The good news? With a few simple adjustments, you can create a safe, joyful holiday environment that includes your furry family — without sacrificing fun or aesthetics.

Here’s how to make this holiday season pet-friendly, safe, and unforgettable. 🎄🐶🐱✨

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1. Create a Stress-Free Safe Space

Even the friendliest pets need a break from holiday noise and overstimulation.

What to do:

Set up a quiet room or cozy corner with their bed, toys, water, and calming sounds.

Add familiar scents like your worn sweater or a favorite blanket.

Tell guests this is a no-enter zone for your pet’s comfort.

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2. Choose Pet-Safe Decorations

Some decorations look cute… until your cat swallows tinsel or your dog knocks over a lit candle.

Avoid:

Tinsel, glass ornaments, candles, edible garlands, snow globes, loose wiring.

Use instead:

Felt ornaments, fabric décor, LED candles, and sturdy tree bases.

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3. Be Mindful of Holiday Foods

So many holiday foods are toxic to pets.

Unsafe: chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, xylitol, alcohol, ham fat, raw dough.

Safe treats: plain turkey, pumpkin purée, carrot sticks, pet bakery goodies.

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4. Keep Wrapping Supplies Safe

Ribbons, tape, and string can be dangerous.

Tips:

Clean as you wrap.

Don’t leave string unattended.

Use tissue or fabric wrapping for pets.

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5. Pet-Friendly Holiday Activities

Fun, low-stress ways to include pets:

Festive photos

Winter walks

DIY treats

New holiday toys

Adding them to your cards

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6. Prepare for Guests and Gatherings

Help pets feel safe around visitors.

Let guests know you have pets.

Use baby gates to prevent escapes.

Allow pets to approach on their own terms.

For rescues or anxious pets, give them space and avoid forced interactions.

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7. Keep Routines Consistent

Stability = comfort.

Stick to regular meal times, walks, and bedtime rituals.

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8. Make a Holiday Safety Kit

Include:

Vet/emergency numbers

First-aid supplies

Calming aids

Extra leashes/collars

Pet-safe ice melt

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9. NEW: Pet-Friendly Holiday Gift Ideas 🎁🐾

Here are 10 safe, fun gifts your pets will LOVE:

1. Durable holiday toys

2. Interactive puzzle feeders

3. Cozy beds or blankets

4. Stocking treat bundles

5. Stylish collars/tags

6. Cat tunnels or pop-up hideouts

7. Pet-safe bakery treats

8. New leashes or harnesses

9. DIY homemade gifts

10. Subscription boxes

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10. Celebrate With Love & Awareness

Your pets don’t need a perfect tree — they need you.

Including them safely means listening to their needs and keeping their environment cozy, comfortable, and calm.