Black Friday: Pet Safety Tips for Busy Shopping Days

Black Friday marks one of the busiest shopping days of the year. Whether you’re braving the crowds for deals or spending hours shopping online, it’s easy to get caught up in the chaos. But while you’re focused on scoring discounts, your pets may be facing risks of their own—ranging from stress and anxiety to household hazards caused by the day’s hustle and bustle.

Here are important Black Friday pet safety tips to help you keep your furry companions calm, safe, and comfortable while you enjoy the excitement.

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1. Keep Pets Secure While You’re Out Shopping

If you’re planning to spend hours away from home, make sure your pets are in a safe and secure environment. Leaving them alone for too long can lead to anxiety, boredom, or destructive behavior.

Before heading out:

• Make sure your pet has plenty of food, water, and toys.
• Keep them in a comfortable area of the house, away from hazards.
• Avoid leaving them outdoors or in cars, even for short periods.

If you expect to be gone most of the day, consider asking a neighbor or pet sitter to check in on them.

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2. Manage Stress from Holiday Crowds and Noise

Black Friday often comes with increased noise, visitors, and activity—especially if you host guests or shop online from home while deliveries and visitors come and go. These disruptions can cause anxiety for pets.

To reduce stress:

• Set up a quiet room with your pet’s bed and favorite toys.
• Play soothing music or white noise.
• Stick to their normal feeding and walking schedule to maintain routine.

If your pet shows signs of stress, like pacing, whining, or hiding, give them space and reassurance without forcing interaction.

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3. Watch Out for Shopping Bags and Packaging Hazards

After a successful shopping spree, your home may be filled with shopping bags, boxes, receipts, and plastic packaging—all potential dangers for curious pets.

Keep these out of reach:

• Plastic bags: Can cause suffocation or choking.
• Twist ties and ribbons: Dangerous if swallowed.
• Cardboard boxes: Fun to play with, but supervise to prevent chewing or ingestion.

Dispose of packaging immediately and store new items safely to avoid accidents.

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4. Be Cautious with Decorations and Holiday Preparations

Many people start decorating for the holidays right after Thanksgiving, but decorations can pose risks for pets. Christmas lights, tinsel, and small ornaments can be hazardous if pets chew or swallow them.

When decorating:

• Keep cords out of reach.
• Avoid dangling ornaments within paw’s reach.
• Skip real candles and use battery-operated alternatives.

Taking a few safety precautions now can prevent dangerous situations later.

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5. Avoid Feeding Pets Leftovers or Treats

During the Black Friday weekend, many families enjoy leftover Thanksgiving food—but not all of it is safe for pets. Turkey bones, gravy, chocolate, and seasoned dishes can cause stomach upset or poisoning.

Stick to your pet’s regular diet, and if you want to treat them, offer pet-safe snacks like plain cooked meat or store-bought treats designed for their species.

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6. Monitor Online Shopping Deliveries

If you’re shopping online, be mindful of the packages arriving at your doorstep. Delivery drivers, ringing doorbells, and unfamiliar sounds can trigger barking or anxiety in pets.

Tip:
Give your pet a safe space away from the front door, especially if they get startled easily. Keeping them calm helps prevent escapes or accidents.

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7. Stay Aware of Household Dangers

In the flurry of activity, it’s easy to overlook simple hazards. Ensure your pets can’t access cleaning products, open doors, or items that could cause injury. Small steps—like closing doors and keeping counters clear—make a big difference in safety.

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8. Keep Emergency Numbers Handy

Accidents can happen, even with precautions. Have your veterinarian’s contact information and the nearest 24-hour emergency animal clinic number visible. If your pet ingests something harmful, contact the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (1-888-426-4435) right away.

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Conclusion

Black Friday is an exciting time for shoppers, but it can be stressful or even risky for pets. By preparing your home, maintaining routines, and watching for potential hazards, you can keep your furry companions safe while you enjoy the deals and festivities.

A few extra precautions will ensure your pets stay calm, happy, and healthy—not just on Black Friday, but throughout the entire holiday season.
References: Petscare