Holiday Pet Safety: How to keep your pets happy, calm & out of mischief this festive season

The holiday season is here, sunny days, backyard BBQs, road trips, visitors, treats, and plenty of excitement.

It’s a wonderful time for us… but for our pets, it can be a little overwhelming (and full of tempting things they shouldn’t get into).

To help you keep your furry family members safe, relaxed, and part of the fun, here’s your go-to guide for navigating December with pets.

1. Holiday Treats: tasty for us, risky for them

December is basically one long grazing season of mince pies, chocolate, grazing boards, baked treats, the works. But many of our festive favourites aren’t safe for pets.

Keep these well out of reach:

• Chocolate
• Raisins + grapes (including fruit mince)
• Xylitol-sweetened treats
• Christmas cakes & puddings
• Alcohol (yep, even “just a lick”)

Even small amounts of these foods can cause issues for dogs and cats, so the safest option: Treats for humans stay high and hidden.

2. Skip the sneaky scraps

We all know those eyes.
But holiday leftovers often aren’t pet-friendly.

Try to avoid:

• Cooked bones (they can splinter)
• Fatty trimmings
• Rich, salty, or heavily seasoned foods
• Sausages, ham, and BBQ drippings

If you want them to feel included, have their own safe treats ready to go... no awkward tummy dramas later.

3. Pet-proof your décor

Holiday decorations = absolute mischief magnets.

Keep an eye on:

• Tinsel + ribbons (very tempting to chew or swallow)
• Fragile ornaments at “tail level”
• Loose light cords
• Dangly tree decorations
• Wrapped presents with string

Place breakables higher, and choose decorations with pets in mind.

4. Heat, hydration + summer safety

A big one for New Zealand December!

The combo of heat + excitement + visitors can be a lot for pets.

Make sure they have:

• Constant access to fresh, cool water
• Shade or a quiet indoor spot
• Extra breaks from playtime
• Cool-down time after walks
• The option to retreat if they’re overwhelmed

If you’re heading out in the car, remember:
never leave pets inside unattended... even for a moment.

5. Visitors, noise & routine changes

Your pet might love company… or they might get stressed by new people, loud laughs, and kids running around.

A few ways to help:

• Let them have a quiet “safe space” away from the chaos
• Keep their feeding + walking routine as normal as possible
• Give them breaks from socialising
• Use a baby gate or separate room during mealtimes if needed

This keeps everyone happy... including you.

6. Keep gifts + packaging out of paws' reach

Wrapping paper, string, ribbons, chocolate gifts, kids’ toys… it all becomes very appealing to curious noses.

Do a quick sweep after unwrapping sessions to avoid accidental “snacking.”

7. Travel prep (if you’re hitting the road)

Summer holidays often mean road trips and new environments.

Before you go:

• Pack their food, bowl, lead, and bedding
• Keep them secured safely in the car
• Take breaks on long drives
• Know where the nearest vet is at your destination
• Bring something familiar (like a blanket) to settle them in

A little prep goes a long way to keeping them calm and comfortable.

8. Give them some extra TLC

December is busy for everyone. A little extra grooming, bonding time, and calm routines help pets feel safe and settled.

Many pets also experience more dust, sand, pollen, and outdoor exposure over summer, so a gentle reset bath with HoneyVet can help them look and feel their best.

Your pet’s happiest holiday starts with a little preparation

A safe pet = a stress-free, joy-filled holiday season for the whole family.

With a bit of planning, mindful decorating, and smart food decisions, your pets can enjoy the festivities right alongside you.

Want more tips?
Explore more on our blog or follow along on Instagram for seasonal reminders, grooming routines, and gentle everyday care ideas.

Visit honeyvet.co.nz for more pet-friendly guides and natural care essentials.