The holidays are a joyful time for families and pets. December is officially recognized as Safe Toys and Gifts Month, a reminder to choose gifts that are safe not only for children but also for pets.
As veterinary professionals, you likely see how the holiday season can sometimes bring unexpected hazards for pets, like ingestion of unsafe toys and emergency visits caused by festive but dangerous items.
That’s why we’re sharing insights from trusted organizations like the ASPCA, Humane Society, and veterinary experts on how to help your clients pick safe, pet-friendly gifts this holiday season.
Common dangers of unsafe toys and gifts for pets
During the holiday season, pet owners often shower their furry companions with gifts. But not all toys and treats are created with safety in mind. Many products on the market pose hidden risks that can lead to emergency vet visits. Here are some of the most common dangers to watch out for, according to the Humane Society and the Ontario SPCA.
Foreign body ingestion
Hazard
Toys with small parts, stuffing, or squeakers can easily be chewed apart and swallowed, leading to choking or intestinal blockages.
Example
Plush toys with loose seams or small detachable eyes and noses.
Tip
Encourage pet owners to choose well-constructed toys designed specifically for their pet’s size and chewing habits. Stock appropriate options in your clinic.
Choking hazards
Hazard
Balls, rawhide bones, or other items that are too small for a pet’s size can become lodged in the throat.
Example
Giving a small ball to a large dog or small chew toys to aggressive chewers.
Tip
Remind pet owners to check packaging for size recommendations and supervise playtime with any new toys. Show pet owners an appropriate sized toy in your clinic.
Toxic materials and coatings
Hazard
Some toys, especially those not explicitly made for pets, can contain harmful chemicals like BPA, lead, or toxic dyes.
Example
Cheap toys bought online or DIY gifts made with unsafe household materials.
Tip
Share resources like the Humane Society’s list of safe materials for pet toys or recommend pet-safe brands.
Edible gifts that aren’t pet friendly
Hazard
Treats like rawhide, bones, or festive goodies can cause digestive issues or break into dangerous shards.
Example
Rawhide chews that splinter, leading to esophageal or intestinal injuries.
Tip
Suggest safer alternatives, such as veterinarian-approved dental chews or freeze-dried treats. Keep them in your clinic.
Strings, ribbons, and tinsel
Hazard
While not traditional toys, these decorations are tempting for pets and can lead to severe gastrointestinal blockages if swallowed.
Example
Cats playing with curling ribbon or dogs chewing on tinsel from the tree.
Tip
Advise clients to keep such decorations out of reach and opt for pet-safe alternatives.
By educating clients on these common hazards, veterinary clinics can help prevent avoidable emergencies while promoting responsible and informed gifting practices for pets. Including guidance from organizations like the Humane Society lends credibility and ensures the advice is rooted in expert recommendations.
Educating clients about holiday hazards
The holidays are a time of celebration, but they also bring hidden risks for pets. What might seem like common knowledge for you isn’t always obvious to pet owners. So take the opportunity to remind them about the common seasonal hazards.
Decorations
Tinsel, ribbons, and fragile ornaments might look festive, but they can pose serious risks for pets. Cats, in particular, love playing with tinsel, which can cause intestinal blockages if swallowed. Advise pet owners to secure decorations and keep fragile or dangling items out of reach.
Holiday foods
Some seasonal favorites, like chocolate, raisins, and xylitol-sweetened treats, are toxic to pets. Even seemingly safe foods like turkey skin can cause digestive issues. Let pet owners know to avoid sharing table scraps and to store food securely away from curious paws.
Holiday plants
Many popular holiday plants can be harmful to pets. Poinsettias, holly, and mistletoe can cause mild to severe symptoms if ingested, while lilies are highly toxic to cats. Encourage clients to display these plants in pet-free areas or opt for pet-safe artificial alternatives.
Stress and noise
Festive gatherings and fireworks can overwhelm pets, leading to anxiety or escape attempts. Suggest creating a quiet, comfortable space for pets to retreat to during celebrations. This simple step can help reduce stress and prevent accidents.
Winter weather hazards
Cold weather, sidewalk salt, and antifreeze are common risks during the holiday season. Salt can irritate paws, and antifreeze, which is highly toxic, often attracts pets due to its sweet smell. Recommend wiping pets’ paws after walks and cleaning up any spills immediately.
Practical tips to give your clients when it comes to choosing toys and gifts for their pets
One simple way pet owners can make safer choices for their pets is by reading online reviews before purchasing toys and gifts. Many products may look appealing, but reviews from other pet owners can reveal potential safety issues or unexpected benefits.
So what specifically can families look for in online reviews?
Look for reviews from pet owners with similar-sized pets.
Not all toys are safe for every pet. A toy that works well for a small dog might be a choking hazard for a larger one, and vice versa. Encourage clients to focus on reviews that mention pets similar to their own in size and play style.
Check for durability feedback.
A common complaint among pet owners is toys breaking apart too quickly. Reviews often highlight whether a toy can withstand chewing or rough play, which is especially important for aggressive chewers.
Mentions of unexpected hazards.
Other pet owners might mention hidden risks, like a squeaker that’s easily removed or stuffing that can be ingested. Suggest that clients prioritize reviews that specifically discuss safety and potential issues.
Brand reputation.
Trusted pet-focused brands are often reviewed more favorably for safety and durability. Encourage clients to check reviews not only for individual products but also for the overall reputation of the brand.
Look for trends, not just comments.
A single bad review might not mean much, but patterns, like multiple mentions of choking hazards or poor-quality materials, should raise red flags. Suggest clients scan several reviews to get a balanced perspective.
There are several reputable sources for pet owners to turn to for toy reviews.
Wrapping it up
Safe Toys and Gifts Month is a great opportunity for veterinary clinics to share valuable advice with their clients and help ensure the holiday season is joyful for pets and their families. By educating pet owners about common hazards, sharing practical tips for choosing safe gifts, and pointing them to trusted resources like the ASPCA, Humane Society, and reputable review sites, your clinic can position itself as a caring partner in pet care.
Encouraging your clients to make informed choices not only reduces the risk of preventable emergencies but also strengthens the bond between them and their furry companions. As pet safety advocates, vet clinics have the unique ability to provide proactive guidance that fosters safer, happier homes for pets this holiday season and beyond.
Sources
The Humane Society | How to pick the best and safest dog toy.
The American Kennel Club | Which dog toys are right for your dog?
The Dog Clinic | 12 best dog toys of 2024: Tested and reviewed by experts.
PetsRadar | Best dog toys 2024 to keep your canine companion happy and healthy.
Rover.com | The 25 Best Dog Toys of the Year, from Balls and Plushes to Puzzles and Ropes.
Forbes Vetted | The 11 Best Dog Toys To Keep Your Pup Happy And Occupied.