To help keep your companion safe this season, here are some of the most common winter and holiday hazards seen by our emergency veterinary team.

Cold Weather Risks

Even though winters in Kelowna can be milder than other parts of Canada, cold snaps still pose serious risks to dogs and cats.

Frostbite & Hypothermia

Pets can develop frostbite on their ears, paws, and tail, and prolonged exposure can lead to hypothermia.

Tip: Limit outdoor time during extreme cold and use pet-safe jackets or boots when possible.

Antifreeze (Ethylene Glycol)

Antifreeze is highly toxic, even in tiny amounts. Leaks in driveways, garages, or parking lots are common sources.

Tip: Store antifreeze securely and wipe up spills immediately.

Salt & Ice Melt

Paw irritation, chemical burns, and stomach upset can occur if pets lick their paws after exposure.

Tip: Wipe paws after every walk and consider pet-safe booties.

Frozen Lakes & Ponds

The Okanagan’s winter freeze-thaw cycles can create unpredictable ice thickness.

Tip: Keep pets leashed near lakes, ponds, or creeks.

Holiday Decor & Household Hazards

Festive decorations can be irresistible—and sometimes dangerous.

Tinsel, Ribbon & String

These can cause intestinal blockages if swallowed.

Ornaments & Hooks

Glass ornaments can shatter, causing paw injuries or dangerous ingestion.

Electrical Cords

Chewing holiday lights or loose cords can lead to burns or electric shock.

Tip:

• Skip tinsel and use non-breakable ornaments

• Place fragile items high on the tree

• Secure cords and unplug lights when not in use

Food, Treats & Toxic Plants

Holiday gatherings often mean tempting but dangerous snacks within reach.

Toxic Foods

• Chocolate (darker = more toxic)

• Xylitol (in sugar-free candy, gum, baking)

• Fatty foods & bones (can cause pancreatitis)

• Grapes & raisins (can cause kidney failure)

• Alcohol (dangerous even in small amounts)

Tip: Keep human foods off accessible surfaces and ask guests not to share table scraps.

Toxic Holiday Plants

• Poinsettias: Mild GI and oral irritation

• Mistletoe & Holly: Vomiting, diarrhea, or heart issues

• Lilies: Extremely toxic to cats (even a small amount can cause kidney failure)

• Christmas Trees (pine, fir, spruce): Needles can irritate or puncture the digestive tract

Tip: Keep plants out of reach and sweep up fallen needles frequently.

Wildlife & Outdoor Hazards in the Okanagan

Kelowna’s wildlife remains active through winter, creating seasonal risks for pets.

Coyotes

More visible in winter and a risk for small dogs and outdoor cats.

Porcupines

Common throughout the Okanagan, quill injuries are a frequent emergency visit.

Rodenticides

During colder months, rodent control increases, leading to accidental pet poisonings.

Frozen or Decaying Wildlife

Pets may ingest harmful substances on winter hikes, including dead fish or wildlife remains.

Tip: Keep pets leashed on trails, especially at dawn and dusk.

When in Doubt, Call Us

A trip to the emergency vet is never planned, but our compassionate team is here for you around the clock.

If you're unsure whether your companion needs urgent care, call Fairfield Animal Hospital at (250) 860-6550 and we will guide you on the next steps.

From all of us at Fairfield Animal Hospital, we wish your family a safe and happy holiday season.

Please note: Our emergency room operates on a triage-based system. Patients with the most critical needs will be seen first, and wait times may vary.