Toronto Humane Society Shares Pet Safety Tips Before the Holidays

TORONTO, ON – December 19, 2024— 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 responsibly, while also reminding everyone that pets are not holiday surprises—they are lifelong commitments.

“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

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 mistletoe and holly are 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 candles. Keep them out of reach of pets or use 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 alcohol 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.

Pets Are Not Holiday Surprises

While many people consider gifting pets during the holidays, Toronto Humane Society urges families to think carefully before surprising loved ones with a furry friend. Pets are more than just gifts—they are long-term companions who require careful planning and commitment.

“Bringing a pet into a home is a decision that should involve the whole family, especially the person who will be their primary caregiver,” says Melissa Shupak, Director of Animal Sheltering at Toronto Humane Society. “Pets are companions, not seasonal surprises, and they come with responsibilities that last long after the holidays are over.”

According to the Ontario Veterinary Medical Association (OVMA), in Ontario, the costs of caring for a pet can be substantial. Dogs, for instance, can cost anywhere from $4,000 to $5,500 annually, while cats typically range from $3,000 to $4,000. Small animals like rabbits and guinea pigs may seem more affordable but still require significant care. These costs do not account for emergencies, which can add up quickly.

Instead of surprising someone with a pet, consider involving them in the decision-making process. Help with adoption fees, research, or purchasing supplies to ensure the new pet parent is fully prepared for their new companion.

“For everyone at Toronto Humane Society, we want to ensure that the holiday season is joyful for pets and their families alike,” says Dr. Ward. “Taking simple precautions and making thoughtful decisions about adopting pets ensures that both the family and the pets are prepared for the long term.”

For more information on how to celebrate the holidays safely with your pets, visit Toronto Humane Society at www.torontohumanesociety.com. 

If you would like to donate a holiday gift to animals in the shelter at Toronto Humane Society, you can visit www.torontohumanesociety.com/winterwishes/.  

About Toronto Humane Society
Toronto Humane Society’s mission is to improve the lives of animals. The organization excels in all ways an animal shelter should, with industry-leading shelter care, veterinary services, animal training and behaviour consultations. Toronto Humane Society believes in the importance of the human-animal bond, finds new homes for thousands of animals and helps keep families together.

Toronto Humane Society is more than an animal shelter. They are an educational resource and support system, a leading voice in animal welfare and accessible care. The organization is also a centre of excellence, a space where best practices and boundary-pushing knowledge meet with unyielding optimism and a love for animals to create something special. Toronto Humane Society is like no other. For more information, visit www.torontohumanesociety.com.

For more information, or to arrange an interview please contact Lucas Solowey at communications@torontohumanesociety.com or call 416-392-2273 ext. 2196