Keep Pets Safe Throughout the Holiday Season

December 19, 2025

County Animal Services has issued holiday safety guidelines to help pet owners protect their animals during the festive season through New Year's. The recommendations address multiple hazards including dangerous holiday foods, toxic decorations and plants, stress from gatherings, and risks from fireworks. Pet owners are advised to provide only safe foods like plain poultry and vegetables, secure decorations like tinsel and ornaments, and create quiet retreat spaces for anxious animals.

Who is affected

Pet owners (specifically those with cats, dogs, and other pets)
Pets themselves (cats, dogs, and other household animals)
Holiday guests who may interact with pets
County Animal Services staff providing microchipping services
Boarding facilities and pet sitters caring for animals during travel

What action is being taken

County Animal Services is sharing safety tips
County Animal Services offers microchipping Tuesday through Sunday at both the Bonita and Carlsbad shelters with national registration (no appointment needed)

Why it matters

The holidays create multiple safety hazards for pets that don't exist during typical daily routines. Increased activity from gatherings raises escape risks, rich holiday foods and toxic plants can cause serious illness or death, decorations pose choking and injury hazards, and fireworks can traumatize animals or cause them to flee. Without proper precautions, pets face heightened risks of injury, poisoning, getting lost, or experiencing severe stress during what should be a celebratory time. These guidelines help pet owners anticipate and prevent emergencies that could result in veterinary crises or lost animals.

What's next

No explicit next steps stated in the article

Read full article from source: The San Diego Voice & Viewpoint