Whether you're getting ready to enjoy the spooky season or heading straight to Thanksgiving, Hanukkah, Christmas, or any of the other winter holidays, the holidays are a time filled with excitement, joy, and celebration.
And while we all love to include our fur babies in everything, the holidays can sometimes feel overwhelming for dogs—between doorbells ringing, costumes, guests, and tempting holiday foods, a lot goes on that can stress out your pup.
The good news? With a little planning, you can keep your dog happy, healthy, and safe this season.
Common Holiday Dangers for Dogs
Now, the holiday season involves two things that dogs both love and can be overwhelmed by: people and food—not to mention the décor, chaos, and noise that come with each holiday as well. Before we dive into solutions, it's important to know the risks:
- Toxic foods and tempting treats: Chocolate, xylitol (found in sugar-free candies and gum), grapes, raisins, onions, meat with bones, and scraps from rich holiday dishes can all make dogs sick.
- Overstimulation at the door: Constant ringing, strangers in costumes, carolers, and bowls of candy can quickly overwhelm and tempt even the most easy-going pup.
- Stress from gatherings: A house full of relatives, unfamiliar faces, or kids running around can overwhelm even the most social dog.
- Risk of escape: With trick-or-treaters, deliveries, and guests going in and out, the front door can become an easy getaway point.
- Dangerous décor: Tinsel, candles, pine needles, tree water, Jack-o'-lanterns, and even wrapped gifts can pose choking, poisoning, or fire hazards.
- Holiday noise stressors: Fireworks, noisemakers, or even loud music during New Year's can trigger anxiety or panic.
A little extra awareness goes a long way. By preparing ahead, you can keep the holidays festive without putting your pup at risk.
How Daycare and Boarding Help Keep Dogs Safe
Even if your pup is perfectly well-mannered, you still have to account for guests. Even the most well-meaning guests can cause harm by encouraging rough play, mistaking anxiety for excitement, or giving your pup human food as a "treat" (even pup-safe food can lead to tummy trouble fast!).
As such, a great way to ensure your pup has a safe and happy holiday is to eliminate these stressors altogether by enrolling them in a trusted, safe facility that treats your pup like their very own—and for that, look no further than Room for Paws Pet Resort.
By joining the Room for Paws family, you can make sure your fur baby enjoys the season as much as you do as they stay in the care of trusted professionals. Our vet-recommended facility was designed with dogs' safety, health, and fun in mind, making it the top choice for discerning pup parents throughout the Tri-State area.
Whether it’s for a day of doggy daycare or an overnight stay, you can celebrate the holidays with complete peace of mind knowing that your pup is having their very own luxury getaway in a safe, engaging space where they can play, rest, socialize, and thrive in a comfortable, dog-focused environment.
Our daycare and all-suite boarding programs ensure your pup has:
- A stress-free space where your dog can stick to a consistent routine, even when your household is full of activity.
- Enrichment through play with both people and other dogs, which balances their need for companionship and exercise.
- All-suite boarding with private, comfortable spaces with fear freeTM colors,designed to give your pup a cozy retreat and a good night's rest.
- Professional supervision so you don't have to worry about accidents while juggling holiday responsibilities.
Plus, at Room for Paws, we have no shortage of add-ons to ensure your pup has a well-rounded stay. Added perks such as training, grooming, or even puppy preschool—where little ones build confidence by practicing exposure to people in different outfits and noise desensitization—are all perfect prep for future gatherings.
Did You Know? Boarding and daycare aren't just for the holidays—they're a year-round solution for busy families. Whether you're heading out on a weekend trip, anticipating a long day at the office, or simply want your pup to enjoy extra play and socialization, having a trusted place to bring them ensures they're cared for, happy, and thriving no matter the season.
Frequently Asked Questions About Holiday Dog Safety
If you're looking for even more tips, we've put together this section to answer some of the most common holiday safety questions from pup parents. You can also explore our full FAQ page, check out our blog for more in-depth guides, or contact us directly with any additional questions you may have!
Is it safe to include my dog in holiday gatherings?
Yes, but supervision is key. In general, boarding or daycare is a safer option.
Are holiday decorations really that dangerous for dogs?
They absolutely can be. When dogs ingest decorations, it can pose risks such as intestinal distress, choking, or even poisoning.
What are some common misconceptions about dogs and the holidays?
- "My dog loves guests, so they'll love a packed house." Even social dogs can get overstimulated when too many new faces show up at once.
- "It's okay if they eat a little of what I'm eating." Rich, fatty, or seasoned foods can upset stomachs and, in some cases, be toxic.
- "They're fine with decorations—they never touch them." Dogs are curious, and a dangling ornament or new scented candle can quickly become a hazard.
- "Noise doesn't bother them." Even if your dog doesn't react to everyday sounds, fireworks or noisemakers during New Year's can be a different story.
Can dogs handle costumes or festive outfits?
Some dogs enjoy dressing up, but many find it uncomfortable or stressful. If you do dress your pup, choose lightweight, non-restrictive outfits without dangling parts, and never leave them unsupervised while wearing clothing.
Should I travel with my dog during the holidays or board them?
We have a blog exploring this very question! But, put simply, while it can vary for each pup, it's recommended to enroll your dog in a reputable boarding facility while you are away. This ensures your dog can keep their routine while enjoying their very own vacation.
Are holiday plants dangerous for dogs?
Yes—poinsettias, holly, lilies, and mistletoe can all be toxic to dogs if ingested. Even non-toxic plants can cause stomach upset, so keep holiday greenery out of reach.
Give Your Pup the Gift of a Stress-Free Holiday
If you'd like to take the stress out of the season, now is the perfect time to schedule a free daycare discovery day, book a boarding suite, or sign your puppy up for preschool before the holiday rush fills up.
Give your dog the gift of care, attention, and play this season—and give yourself the peace of mind to enjoy every moment. To start the enrollment process, please fill out a reservation form, and don't hesitate to contact us if you have any questions.
