Keeping Your Pet Safe on St. Patrick’s Day

Watch out for toxic foods and drinks

Holiday foods tend to be shared, dropped, or left within reach. Some common St. Patrick’s Day staples can be harmful to pets—especially alcohol, chocolate, onions, garlic, and foods sweetened with xylitol (often found in sugar-free products).

• Keep plates and cups out of reach (end tables count).
• Ask guests not to feed your pets “just a bite.”
• Secure trash cans—food scraps are a top culprit.

If you suspect your pet got into something unsafe, call your veterinarian or a pet poison helpline right away.

Decorations can be choking or blockage hazards

Shamrock décor, ribbons, balloons, beads, and small party favors can be irresistible to a dog who loves to chew—or a cat who loves to bat things off shelves. Swallowed décor can lead to intestinal blockage.

• Keep strings, ribbons, and balloons out of reach.
• Avoid leaving party favors on coffee tables.
• Do a quick floor sweep after guests arrive (and after they leave).

Crowds and noise can stress pets (especially anxious dogs)

Doorbells, strangers, loud music, and packed rooms can be overwhelming. Some pets hide; others bolt. If your dog gets anxious during commotion, set them up for success with a calmer routine.

Consider a daily calming chew during busy seasons and events: Hemp Well Calm Dog Soft Chews

• Exercise before guests arrive (a long walk helps).
• Use white noise or a fan near your pet’s safe space.
• Keep leashes handy for door opening moments.

Update ID tags and microchip info

Holidays are a top time for pets to slip out the front door. Make sure your pet’s collar tag is readable and your microchip registration has your current phone number.

• Check the tag: name + current phone number.
• Confirm microchip registration (not just “they’re chipped”).
• Have a recent photo of your pet on your phone.

Create a “safe room” before the party starts

If you’re hosting, set up a quiet room with water, a bed, and a favorite toy. Let guests know the room is off-limits. This reduces stress and lowers the odds of escape.

• Close the door (or use a baby gate if your pet prefers visibility).
• Provide enrichment (a lick mat or long-lasting chew can help).
• Keep routines normal (feeding and potty breaks on schedule).

Extra support for post-party recovery

Sometimes a big holiday weekend can throw off a pet’s routine (and stomach). Supporting gut health can help keep things steady: Hemp Well Immune & Digestive Gut Health Dog Soft Chews

Explore all Hemp Well dog options here: Shop Hemp Well for Dogs

Frequently Asked Questions

What St. Patrick’s Day foods are most dangerous for pets?

Alcohol, chocolate, onions, garlic, and xylitol-sweetened foods are common hazards. When in doubt, keep human party food away from pets.

My dog gets anxious when guests come over—what should I do?

Set up a quiet safe space, exercise your dog before guests arrive, keep a leash by the door, and consider a consistent calming routine leading up to the event.

Are decorations really that risky?

Yes—strings, ribbons, balloons, and small items can be swallowed and cause choking or intestinal blockage. Keep décor out of reach and clean up promptly.

How can I prevent my pet from running out the door?

Use leashes during arrivals, designate one door for guests, and keep your pet in a safe room when the door will be opening frequently.

When should I call a vet?

If you think your pet ate something toxic, swallowed décor, is vomiting repeatedly, seems lethargic, or shows unusual behavior, contact your veterinarian immediately.