Common Holiday Pet Emergencies: Holiday Pet Safety Tips by Pet Occasions

The holidays are meant to be joyful. Extra food, extra visitors, extra time at home. For pets, that also means extra opportunities to get into trouble. As a mobile veterinary service partnered with Goodna Vet, we see the same preventable emergencies every festive season across Goodna, Springfield, Redbank Plains and nearby suburbs.

A little awareness goes a long way. Here are the most common holiday emergencies we treat and what you can do to avoid an after hours vet visit.

1. Dietary disasters

Holiday food is a repeat offender.

We regularly see vomiting, diarrhoea and pancreatitis caused by rich leftovers, fatty meats, bones, chocolate, grapes, and festive desserts. Dogs are especially talented at stealing food when no one is looking. Cats are quieter but just as capable.

Prevention tips

• Keep human food off low tables and within sealed containers

• Never feed pets scraps, no matter how convincing the begging

• Remind guests that one small treat can cause a very big problem

  
  

If your pet gets into chocolate, xylitol or cooked bones, call a vet immediately. Waiting it out is not a plan.

2. Heat stress and dehydration

Australian holidays come with heat. Pets do not cope with it the way we do.

We see heat exhaustion from pets left outside without shade, walked during peak heat, or left in cars even briefly. Flat faced breeds, older pets and overweight animals are at higher risk.

Prevention tips

• Walk early morning or late evening only

• Provide constant access to fresh water and shade

• Never leave pets in cars, even for a few minutes

• Watch for heavy panting, drooling, lethargy or collapse

  
  

Heat stress is an emergency. Fast action saves lives.

3. Anxiety and injury from fireworks and visitors

Noise, unfamiliar people and disrupted routines are stressful for many pets. We often treat injuries from pets trying to escape, crashing through doors, or developing severe anxiety related symptoms.

Prevention tips

• Create a quiet, secure space away from noise and crowds

• Keep doors and gates securely closed

• Consider anxiety management strategies discussed with your vet ahead of time

• Make sure microchip details are up to date in case your pet bolts

  
  

A calm environment is not boring. It is protective.

4. Toxic plants and decorations

Festive decorations are basically chew toys with consequences.

We commonly see poisoning from plants like lilies, poinsettias and mistletoe, as well as intestinal blockages from tinsel, ornaments and string lights.

Prevention tips

• Research plants before bringing them into the home

• Keep decorations well out of reach

• Avoid loose ribbons and tinsel entirely

• Supervise pets around new decorations

  
  

If ingestion is suspected, do not wait for symptoms. Early treatment matters.

5. Lacerations and paw injuries

Broken glass, discarded packaging and backyard activity lead to cuts, torn nails and pad injuries.

Prevention tips

• Clear yards and entertaining areas regularly

• Dispose of broken glass immediately

• Check paws after walks or outdoor play

  
  

Small wounds can become big infections if ignored.

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How Pet Occasions Mobile Vet Can Help

When emergencies happen, timing matters. Pet Occasions Mobile Vet works alongside Goodna Vet to provide trusted veterinary care in your home, reducing stress for both pets and owners. We service Goodna, Springfield, Redbank Plains and surrounding areas, bringing professional care directly to your door when it is needed most.

The holidays should be remembered for good moments, not emergency vet visits.

A little prevention now saves a lot of panic later.