Keep your celebration fun, festive, and safe for the pets you love. 🍀
Keep Alcohol Away From Pets
Alcohol — green or otherwise — is dangerous for dogs and cats. Pets are often drawn to the smell and taste, so keep all drinks out of reach.
Quick guidance:
- Never allow pets access to beer, cocktails, or spilled drinks.
- If your pet ingests alcohol, contact your veterinarian immediately.
Managing Parties, Parades & Loud Noises
St. Patrick’s Day festivities can overwhelm pets. Plan ahead to reduce stress and prevent escape risks.
Create a calm, secure space:
- Place your pet in a quiet room with a crate, familiar bedding, and a TV or radio for background noise.
- Cover three sides of the crate to create a den-like environment.
- Use soft lighting to help them relax.
- Speak in a calm, reassuring voice.
- If your pet is highly anxious, consider skipping the event. Your pet’s well-being comes first.
Shamrocks: Pretty but Potentially Toxic
Shamrocks are festive but can be harmful if eaten.
What to do:
- Display shamrocks out of reach of pets.
- If your pet nibbles on the plant, contact your veterinarian to assess toxicity risk.
Pet Costumes: Cute, But Comfort Comes First
Dressing pets in green outfits can be fun if your pet enjoys it.
Costume safety tips:
- Only dress pets who are already comfortable wearing sweaters or clothing.
- Ensure costumes don’t block vision or hearing.
- If your pet resists, skip the costume. Comfort always wins.
Fireworks & Flames: Protect Your Pet
Some St. Patrick’s Day celebrations include fireworks or open flames. Pet costumes are not required to meet human flammability standards (CFR 1610), so extra caution is essential.
Safety essentials:
- Keep pets away from fire pits, candles, sparklers, and any open flame.
- Always leash your dog outdoors during fireworks. Frightened pets can bolt, jump fences, or run into traffic.
- Be considerate of neighbors whose pets may be terrified by fireworks.
Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day Safely
The Center for Pet Safety regularly receives reports of pets injured or lost due to fireworks. Our research-based recommendations help pet owners make safer choices during noisy holidays.
With a little preparation, you can enjoy St. Patrick’s Day while keeping your pets safe, calm, and comfortable.
