Keeping Mesa Pets Safe From Holiday Hazards

The holidays bring twinkle lights, cozy gatherings, and plenty of tasty treats, plus a few seasonal risks for our four-legged family members. At Curem Veterinary Care in Mesa, we’ve pulled together practical guidance to help you celebrate safely without dampening the fun.

Holiday Food: What To Keep Off the Menu

Rich foods and sweets are the most common holiday pet hazards. Keep plates out of paw’s reach and brief guests (kids included) before dinner is served. When in doubt, stick to your pet’s regular diet and approved treats. Avoid sharing the following:

• Turkey skin, pan drippings, and gravy: Contain high levels of fat that may trigger pancreatitis
• Cooked bones: Can cause splintering and intestinal blockages
• Onions, garlic, chives, and leeks: Can damage red blood cells
• Grapes and raisins: May cause sudden kidney failure
• Chocolate and cocoa: Theobromine and caffeine are toxic to pets
• Xylitol in sugar-free candies, gum, and some peanut butters: Can cause dangerous drops in blood sugar
• Alcohol and unbaked yeast dough: Lead to gas buildup and disorientation

If you want to offer something special, choose plain green beans, a little cooked turkey, plain pumpkin, or your vet-approved treats. Simple swaps like these are easy, practical pet safety tips during the holidays.

Decor, Plants, and Packages: Pretty but Risky

Sparkly decorations are irresistible. Before decking the halls, do a quick “pet-eye-level” sweep and secure anything that dangles, rolls, or crinkles, and beware of:

• Tinsel, ribbon, and yarn: These are especially hazardous for cats, and can cause intestinal damage
• Breakable ornaments and hooks: Can cut paws or be swallowed
• Strings of lights and loose cords: Increase risk for shock and burn if chewed
• Button batteries: Potential for chemical burns, and might cause severe injury if ingested
• Essential oil diffusers and liquid potpourri: Irritating or toxic to pets
• Lilies (for cats), mistletoe, holly, and even poinsettias: Can cause illness or death if chewed

Place fragile items higher, tape cords, and choose pet-safe greenery. A little planning helps you avoid preventable holiday pet hazards.

Company, Commotion, and Routine Changes

Guests, deliveries, and schedule shifts can stress even the most social pets. These mesa vet tips can keep the peace:

• Create a quiet room with a bed, water, and favorite toys.
• Use baby gates or leashes at the door to prevent escapes.
• Confirm ID tags and microchips are up to date.
• Offer food puzzles or lick mats during busy moments.

Calm, predictable routines and a safe retreat are powerful holiday pet safety tips that help pets settle while you host.

When To Seek Care (and How We Can Help)

Call a veterinarian promptly if you notice repeated vomiting, a bloated or painful abdomen, labored breathing, tremors, seizures, sudden lethargy, or exposure to toxins (even if your pet seems “fine”). Curem Veterinary Care offers walk-in urgent care for unexpected needs. You can call ahead to be added to our real-time wait list, and we accept walk-ins until an hour before closing. Quick action makes a big difference with many holiday-related issues.

Travel and Outdoor Time in the Desert

Mesa’s winter weather can sometimes surprise you. Keep pets hydrated on hikes, watch for cactus spines and foxtails, and pack a simple first-aid kit with tweezers, bandage material, and saline. In the car, use a secured crate or a crash-tested harness, and never leave pets unattended, even on mild days—cars can heat rapidly in the Arizona sun.

Wrap It Up: Celebrate Safely and Joyfully

A little foresight goes a long way. With smart boundaries around food, décor, and routines, you’ll keep tails wagging all season long. If you’d like to schedule a wellness visit for your canine or feline companion, or you need timely care, our team at Curem Veterinary Care is here to help. Call (480) 787-0544 for appointments, urgent/walk-in care guidance, or holiday pet safety tips. Happy holidays from all of us!