Egg-cellent Easter Pet Safety Tips!

As Easter approaches, many of us may be decorating our homes, filling baskets, and indulging in sweet treats. But while the season brings joy and celebration, it can also come with hidden dangers for our furry friends. 

At Plymouth Helping Hands For Animals, part of our mission is making sure pets stay healthy and safe—not just through food and medical assistance, but through education and awareness, too.

Don’t let your pet's Easter turn into a vet visit. Here’s your egg-cellent guide to keeping the holiday fun, festive, and pet-friendly!

Keep the Cocoa Away!

Chocolate is toxic to both dogs and cats, especially dark chocolate and baking cocoa. Keep all Easter treats out of paw’s reach and remind little ones not to share with pets—no matter how cute their begging face is!

Watch Out for Xylitol

This sweetener, found in sugar-free gum, candy, and even baked goods, is extremely toxic to dogs and can be life-threatening with even the smallest exposure. Always check labels and keep anything with xylitol far away from pets. Xylitol may also be called: wood sugar, birch sugar, or birch bark extract. More info on xylitol toxicity can be found at:
https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/xylitol-toxicity-in-dogs

 Pretty but Poisonous!

Lilies are beautiful but highly toxic to cats—even small amounts can cause kidney failure. Make sure any Easter bouquets or spring flowers (like tulips and daffodils) are safe for pets or placed far from curious noses.

Danger in Disguise

Plastic eggs can be a choking hazard or cause blockages if chewed or swallowed. Be sure to collect all eggs after hunts and don’t let your pet mistake them for toys or treats.

Beware the Basket Bling!

That colorful fake grass and sparkly ribbon might look festive, but it’s a hazard if ingested. It can cause intestinal blockages, especially for curious cats. Choose pet-safe fillers like shredded paper or leave it out altogether. 

Easter = Escape Risk

With doors opening for guests and excitement in the air, it’s easy for pets to slip out unnoticed. Make sure their collars have up-to-date ID tags and that microchips are registered just in case!

In Case of Emergency

If your pet accidentally gets into something dangerous, contact your vet or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435 right away.

Help Us Share the Joy This Easter

While many of us are celebrating with full baskets and happy pets, others in our community are struggling to provide even the basics. Our Pet Food Pantries and Veterinary Assistance Program are lifelines for pets and their people—and your Easter gift can make a huge difference.

 Here’s how you can help:

🐰 Donate unopened pet food, treats, or supplies

🐰 Make a monetary donation to support local pets in need

🐰 Follow us on Facebook and help amplify our voice!

🐰 Tell a friend about our mission—share our posts, forward this newsletter, or tag us on social media 

Every share, every story, and every kind word brings more awareness to our cause—and more help to the pets and pet owners who need it most. Together, we’re creating a kinder, more compassionate community—one paw at a time.

Wishing you and your furry family members a joyful and safe Easter! 

Thank you for supporting Plymouth Helping Hands For Animals. Because of you, we can continue helping pets stay safe, fed, and loved all year long.