TORONTO, ON / AGILITYPR.NEWS / December 15, 2025 / The holiday season is a time for joy, celebration, and togetherness, including our beloved pets. However, with the festivities come unique challenges for our furry companions' safety and well-being. Toronto Humane Society shares essential tips for families to celebrate the holidays safely with their pets.

“As much as we love the idea of including pets in our holiday traditions, it’s important to be prepared and take some precautions,” says Dr. Karen Ward, DVM, Chief Veterinary Officer at Toronto Humane Society. “Simple precautions can make all the difference in keeping pets safe and happy during this busy time of year.” 

Pets are often drawn to holiday decorations, which can present various hazards. From glittering tinsel to tempting plants and foods, there are plenty of potential dangers. Families can protect their pets by keeping these items out of reach and being mindful of what’s accessible to curious paws and noses. With more people coming and going, it’s also important to create safe, quiet spaces for pets who may not enjoy the chaos of holiday gatherings. 

Special Holiday Tips for Keeping Pets Safe 

“From everyone at Toronto Humane Society, we want to ensure that the holiday season is joyful for pets and their families alike,” says Dr. Ward.  

As we celebrate, it's important to remember that pets should be included in the festivities in a safe and comfortable way. Toronto Humane Society provides the following tips for keeping your furry friends safe and happy during the holiday season: 

• Plants to Avoid: Some festive plants, like poinsettia, mistletoe and holly can be toxic to pets. Keep these plants out of reach or opt for artificial versions. 

• Anchor Your Christmas Tree: Cats may climb trees, and dogs may think tree branches are great for tug-of-war. Securely anchor your Christmas tree to avoid accidents. 

• Keep Candles Safe: If you are celebrating Hanukkah, be mindful of lit candles. Keep them out of reach of pets or consider using battery-operated versions to reduce the risk of burns or fires. 

• Holiday Foods: Be cautious and keep treats like chocolate, xylitol (a sweetener in sugar-free products), and raisins away from your pets. Stick to pet-friendly treats and avoid feeding table scraps. 

• Firework Safety for New Year’s Eve: For pets, fireworks can be terrifying. Create a calm space for them during New Year’s celebrations, complete with their favourite toys, bedding, and soothing music to help them feel at ease. 

How to Include Pets in the Holiday Fun 

Make your pets feel like part of the family with these simple, fun ideas: 

• Holiday Photos: Include your pets in family holiday photos or accessorize them in festive bandanas for a fun touch. 

• Personalized Gifts: Give your pet a present to unwrap when the family exchanges gifts. 

• Extra Playtime: Set aside some time for extra affection and play, helping them cope with the stress of holiday activity. 

Give Hope This Holiday Season 

Toronto Humane Society is inviting the community to support animals in care through its Holiday Hope Bundle campaign, which provide toys, treats, and essential medical support to animals that they care for this holiday season.  

The charity is also calling for donations to meet growing community needs. 

“Thanks to a generous match from Dawson Partners, every gift made before December 31 will go twice as far,” says Phil Nichols, CAWA, RVT, Chief Executive Officer, Toronto Humane Society. “A $50 gift becomes $100 in nourishing food, $75 becomes $150 in essential vaccines, and $100 grows to $200 in critical medical treatment. This support strengthens both pets and the families who rely on Toronto Humane Society to keep their companions healthy and at home.” 

For more information or to donate, please visit TorontoHumaneSociety.com