SPRINGFIELD, MA (WGGB/WSHM) -- With Christmas just one week away, pet owners are being reminded to take extra precautions to keep their animals safe during the holiday season.

Dr. Lauren Atkins with Paws Finding Peace said where humans see Christmas trees and holiday treats, pets see opportunities that can lead to dangerous situations. “Be really careful. I actually had an incident at my house where my cat knocked over the dog’s pills, then somebody, one of the dog or cats, got into it,” she added.

Pet owner Jill Rose, who has two dogs named Cleo and Pixie, said even well-trained animals can be at risk during the holidays. “Decorations, they look like dog toys, so they’re gonna naturally want to go and grab that,” she said.

Atkins identified some toxic items commonly found in homes during the holidays. Onions are toxic to cats and mistletoe is toxic for pets. Pet owners should also be cautious about food and trash and secure trash cans. “If you have an open trash can, that could be a potential safety hazard. You know, dogs will follow their nose, they’re gonna find that stuff,” Rose said.

The holidays can be particularly stressful for animals, especially younger pets. “Please don’t think that your pet wants to be more social than they are. I see that a lot where a dog or a cat really would prefer just to be in a quiet spot, but we want so badly to include them that we put them in really uncomfortable situations,” Atkins explained.

Rose suggested using enrichment activities like Kong toys or lick mats to help pets relax. “It’s actually a nice de-stressor. When they can kind of rhythmically lick and chew on something, it helps relax them,” she added.

Pet owners who suspect their animal has consumed something toxic should contact the 24-hour poison control center at (888) 426-4435 immediately.

It’s a lot for any pet parent to think about, but whether your fur baby is chill, all energy, or somewhere in between, there’s one thing you need to remember. “Pets are medicine, so, you know, use your pets to keep you nice and calm,” Atkins said, while Rose added, “It’s just an incredible feeling. You know, when I come home and my dogs are there, my heart just swells.”

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