The holiday season brings joy, family time, delicious food…and plenty of opportunities for curious pets to get into trouble. From candy and rich foods to gift wrap, decorations, and plants, pets often find irresistible “treats” that can quickly turn into emergencies.
If your dog or cat eats something they shouldn’t, time matters, and knowing what to do can make all the difference.
At Rose City Animal Clinic, we’re here to help. Below are the essential steps to take immediately, along with when to call, when to come in, and resources every pet parent should save.
Stay Calm, Then Check What Your Pet Ate
Panicking won’t help your pet, but quick action will.
Try to determine:
- What they ate
- How much
- How long ago
- Whether there’s packaging, remaining pieces, or signs of chewing
If you’re unsure what the item was, take a picture or bring any remaining pieces with you, even partial packaging can be helpful.
Do NOT Try to Make Your Pet Vomit
Please don’t give hydrogen peroxide to your pet or attempt to induce vomiting unless a veterinarian specifically instructs you to. In some cases such as ingesting sharp objects, batteries, or caustic substances, vomiting can cause even more harm.
Call a Pet Poison Hotline or Your Veterinarian Immediately
Two trusted hotlines available 24/7:
ASPCA Animal Poison Control: (888) 426-4435
Pet Poison Helpline: (855) 764-7661
They can tell you whether your pet needs to come in immediately or if at-home monitoring is enough.
Then call us so we know you’re coming or so we can guide you on next steps.
Bring Your Pet In, We’re Open Late During the Holidays
Many ingestion emergencies need prompt treatment, and waiting can make symptoms worse.
Our clinic, Rose City, is open until 8:00 PM, giving pet parents extended hours for unexpected situations, especially during busy holiday weeks.
If your pet:
- ate chocolate
- ingested medication
- swallowed a foreign object
- ate fatty or rich foods
- is vomiting, drooling, shaking, or acting strangely
Come in immediately. We’d much rather check things early than see complications later.
Know What Signs to Watch For
Even if your pet seems normal at first, symptoms can develop over hours.
Look for:
- vomiting or diarrhea
- restlessness
- excessive drooling
- trembling or seizures
- whining or signs of abdominal pain
- bloated belly
- lack of appetite
- unusual lethargy or hyperactivity
If something seems off, trust your instincts and call us.
Extra Holiday Reminder: Parasites Don’t Take a Break Either
Although this post focuses on ingestion emergencies, the holidays are also a time when many pets fall behind on routine preventatives. This is the perfect time of year to get your pet all set up for heartworm prevention! At this time, we offer once-a-year prevention options that make staying on track simple, safe, and stress-free. So while you’re here, it’s a great time to update your pet’s protection.
We’re Here to Help Any Time Your Pet Gets Into Trouble
Holiday emergencies happen, but you’re never alone in handling them. Whether your pet ate something they shouldn’t or you’re not sure if it’s an emergency, call us or come in, we’re here until 8 PM!
Your pet’s safety is our priority, and no concern is too small.
