The stretch from Thanksgiving pies to New Year’s confetti is pure magic—right up until a curious nose finds the turkey bones, the tinsel, or the open door. If you live in St. Peters or nearby communities like St. Charles, O’Fallon, Wentzville, and Lake St. Louis, this guide highlights the biggest seasonal risks and when to head straight to Pet Urgent Care of St. Peters for fast, compassionate help.

Feast Season: Food Dangers You Might Not Expect

Holiday tables overflow with items that can make pets seriously ill. Common culprits include chocolate, foods sweetened with xylitol (sugar-free gums and desserts), grapes/raisins, alcohol, fatty meats and drippings, turkey or chicken bones, garlic/onion dishes, raw dough, and rich gravies. Even small “tastes” can trigger vomiting, diarrhea, pancreatitis, or toxic reactions.

• Keep plates and trash covered; secure the kitchen during meal prep and cleanup.
• Offer safe, pet-specific treats instead of table scraps.
• Remind guests—especially kids—not to share food.

For xylitol specifics, see Pet Poison Helpline: Xylitol Is Toxic to Dogs. For Thanksgiving-focused pointers, review AVMA: Thanksgiving Pet Safety.

Deck the Halls (Safely): Decor, Trees, and Open Flames

Sparkly décor can be irresistible. Tinsel, string, ribbon, yarn, and ornament hooks can lodge in intestines if swallowed—an emergency that may require surgery. Tree water can contain fertilizers or bacteria; snow globes may contain toxic substances; candles and menorahs pose burn and fire risks; and electrical cords can cause shocks or mouth burns.

• Skip tinsel and small, fragile ornaments at pet level.
• Cover tree water and secure the tree base.
• Use cord protectors and place candles out of reach—never leave flames unattended.

Want a quick refresher on décor safety? Visit the ASPCA’s seasonal page: Holiday Safety Tips.

Company, Doors, and Fireworks: Stress and Escape Risks

Guests, doorbells, and late-night celebrations can be overwhelming. Stressed pets may bolt through open doors, hide, or show sudden behavior changes. New Year’s fireworks can also trigger anxiety and escape attempts, so planning ahead matters.

• Set up a quiet room with water, bed, toys, and a “do not disturb” note.
• Ask visitors to keep doors and gates latched; consider leashes during arrivals.
• Try white noise; discuss calming options with your veterinarian if needed.

For general travel/hosting basics, check AVMA’s overview: Pets in Vehicles & Travel Safety.

Winter & Travel: Cars, Cold, and Antifreeze

Cold snaps in Missouri can be tough on paws and lungs, and holiday road trips add new risks. Pets can develop hypothermia or frostbite if left outside or in a cold car. Ice-melt salts irritate paws and may be harmful if licked. Antifreeze (ethylene glycol) is highly toxic—even small amounts can be deadly.

• Shorten walks in freezing weather; wipe paws after exposure to salt or slush.
• Store antifreeze securely and clean spills immediately.
• Use seat-belt harnesses or carriers for car rides; never leave pets unattended in vehicles.

For more on ethylene glycol hazards, see CDC/ATSDR: Ethylene Glycol Public Health Statement. For broader cold-weather guidance, review AVMA’s sheet: Cold Weather Safety (PDF).

When to Come Straight to Urgent Care

Don’t wait if you notice any of the following—every second counts:

• Repeated vomiting or diarrhea, blood in stool, or severe abdominal pain
• Uncontrollable drooling, tremors, disorientation, or collapse
• Suspected ingestion of chocolate, xylitol, grapes/raisins, alcohol, raw dough, bones, ornaments, strings, or household toxins (like antifreeze)
• Breathing difficulty, pale/blue gums, extreme lethargy, or sudden behavior changes
• Cuts, burns, or suspected fractures from decorations, cords, or slips and falls

For practical first-aid readiness, visit AVMA: First Aid Tips for Pet Owners.

How Pet Urgent Care of St. Peters Helps—Fast

Holiday mishaps rarely follow a schedule. That’s why Pet Urgent Care of St. Peters welcomes walk-ins and guarantees your pet is seen within 10 minutes of arrival. Our team bridges the gap between your regular veterinarian and full emergency hospitals with rapid capabilities and compassionate care.

• In-House Diagnostics for quick results (CBC, chemistry, electrolytes, urinalysis, fecal testing)
• Digital X-rays in seconds to evaluate foreign bodies, fractures, or complications
• Soft-Tissue Surgery when indicated (e.g., foreign-body removals, GI surgery)

If you’re in St. Peters, St. Charles, O’Fallon, Wentzville, or Lake St. Louis and you think “this might be serious,” trust your gut and come in. Calling ahead on your way helps us prepare for your pet’s arrival at (636) 244-0887. 

Quick Holiday Checklist

• Secure trash, table scraps, and gift bags (watch for xylitol, chocolate, alcohol, grapes/raisins, onions/garlic).
• Skip tinsel; protect cords; cover tree water; supervise candles.
• Create a guest-proof quiet space; clip leashes on during arrivals.
• Short, warm walks; wipe paws; store antifreeze safely; never leave pets in vehicles.
• If in doubt—come in now. We’re here Mon–Sat 6 pm–12 am and Sun 10 am–5 pm at 5913 Mexico Rd, St. Peters, MO 63376.