Welcoming a new furry friend into your home during the festive season can bring immense joy, but it also comes with unique responsibilities. This time of year is perfect for adopting a dog or cat in need, yet it's also a period filled with decorations, parties, and rich holiday foods that can pose hidden dangers to pets. At Kendall Animal Medical Center, we are here to guide South Florida pet owners, from Pinecrest to Coral Gables, through the process of adopting safely and keeping every new companion healthy during the holidays.

Why Adoption Matters

October is recognized as Adopt a Shelter Dog Month, but the message applies year-round for cats and dogs alike. By choosing adoption, families provide loving homes to animals who might otherwise remain in shelters. Adoption not only saves lives but also allows pets to thrive in a nurturing environment where their health and emotional needs are prioritized. Before bringing a new pet home, consider their age, temperament, and how they will integrate with other pets and family members.

After adoption, a thorough wellness exam helps ensure your new pet starts their life in your home healthy and protected. Our team at Kendall Animal Medical Center provides comprehensive health evaluations for both dogs and cats.

Preparing Your Home for a New Pet

Creating a safe environment before your new companion arrives is key. Ensure that both dogs and cats have designated areas with beds, litter boxes for cats, food and water stations, and chew-safe toys. Remove or secure any small objects, wires, or fragile decorations that pets could ingest or knock over. Gradually introduce new pets to the household routine to minimize stress and help them adjust comfortably.

For added peace of mind, our Pet Wellness and In-House Diagnostics services help ensure your new pet is in great health from the very beginning.

Holiday Safety Tips

Decorations and festive foods can be hazardous for pets. Keep trees and holiday lights out of reach, secure cords, and avoid tinsel, which cats are prone to ingest. Be mindful of toxic plants like poinsettias, mistletoe, and holly, which can cause gastrointestinal upset or more severe reactions. Rich holiday foods, including chocolate, grapes, onions, and cooked bones, should never be offered to pets. For more details on pet-safe holidays, visit the American Veterinary Medical Association's Holiday Pet Safety Guide.

If an unexpected situation arises, our Urgent & Emergency Care team is available to provide immediate attention and treatment to keep your pet safe.

Managing Stress and Behavior

The holidays can disrupt your pet’s usual routine, causing anxiety or stress. Dogs may become overwhelmed by guests, while cats might hide or exhibit clinginess. Maintaining regular feeding and exercise schedules, providing quiet retreats, and gradually introducing new experiences can help pets cope. 

Health and Preventive Care

Before your holiday celebrations begin, it’s essential to make sure your newly adopted pet starts off healthy. A wellness visit at Kendall Animal Medical Center helps establish a baseline for their health, ensuring vaccinations, parasite prevention, and deworming are all up to date.

Beyond basic care, a wellness exam allows veterinarians to check for hidden conditions that may not be visible yet—such as early dental disease, nutritional deficiencies, or congenital issues that can appear in young or rescued pets. This proactive approach helps prevent minor concerns from turning into major health problems later. Regular check-ups not only keep your furry friend healthy but also help them adjust smoothly to their new home environment.

Enjoying the Holidays Responsibly

Adopting a pet during the festive season can create a lasting bond, but safety and care are essential. Supervise interactions with guests, keep pets away from potentially hazardous areas, and offer enrichment activities to keep them engaged. By combining adoption with thoughtful safety measures, families can experience the true joy of having a new companion during the holidays.

Adoption is just the beginning of a lifelong journey. Whether you live in South Miami, Glenvar Heights, or Coral Terrace, Kendall Animal Medical Center is here to support you with comprehensive care for your dogs and cats. From wellness care to emergency support, our team proudly serves families across South Florida—helping pets live healthier, happier lives every day.

Prioritize wellness, safety, and love, and every season can be a celebration of health and companionship. Contact us or book an appointment today to ensure your pet stays happy and safe this holiday season!