CHICOPEE, Mass. (WWLP) - Christmas is almost here, and many are planning to include their pets in the festivities, but there are a few dangers to be made aware of. Will liquor stores be open on Christmas Eve in Massachusetts? As you are preparing for the holidays, it's important to remember to keep your pet's safety in mind. Many of the dangers associated with the holidays are related to food and other things pets may eat, but there are also pressing concerns related to how they interact with guests and strangers coming and going more than at other times of the year. MSPCA-AngellMSPCA-AngellMSPCA-AngellMSPCA-Angell The MSPCA has provided some tips on how to keep your pets safe this Christmas. Stranger Danger or New Best Friend? “If your pet isn’t a people person, it’s best that you set up a special area for them to stay during gatherings at your home,” said Dr. Terri Bright, Angell Animal Medical Centers’ director of Behavior Services. “It could be a crate or a quiet room with some things to keep them company, like their favorite toys, blankets, or beds.” The MSPCA also states that it is important to warn any guests coming to visit that you have animals so that everyone is prepared. Another potential danger is bringing new pets to the party. If you know in advance that someone else's pet is coming over, have them bring their supplies, as dogs react poorly if they see their owner sharing their treats and toys with other animals. “Don’t assume that pets will get along just because their people do,” she added. “Try to have dogs meet outside, so there’s less of a territorial issue, and ask guests with dogs to bring their own crates, toys, and favorite treats.” ‘Sometimes People are the Problem’ Another hazard could be that some people believe that all animals love them, regardless of the animal's specific needs. “If you have a pet that isn’t interested in meeting new people and a guest that insists they’ll immediately be best friends regardless, consider putting your pet in a different room until you can convince your guest to leave them alone.” If you have a space just for your pet, you don't have to stress about any bad situations happening from their interactions with guests. Staying Out of the Emergency Room There are many physical health hazards for pets around the holidays. “There are plenty of yummy holiday foods we should make sure our pets aren’t getting into this time of year,” explained Dr. Natasha Pakravan of Angell West’s Urgent Care team. “While it’s rare, sometimes a dog will find the holiday punch bowl,” she said. “If a pet ingests a large volume of alcohol, we can see issues with blood sugar and blood pressure.” “Some people make Christmas ornaments this time of year with salt dough, but if a dog decides to ‘help’ by eating the dough, it can cause serious problems due to the high sodium,” she added. Pakravan recommends owners to also keep these foods away from their pets: The charcuterie board—The high-fat content of meats and cheeses can contribute to pancreatitis. Fruit cake—Grapes and raisins can lead to kidney injury, so Pakravan advises owners whose dog ingests them to get their pet evaluated right away. Macadamia nuts—These are highly toxic to pets and cause neurological issues. Chocolate and cocoa baking powder—Depending on how much is eaten, these can cause vomiting, heart problems, and even seizure activity. Local News Headlines How to keep your pets safe from holiday hazards Musical artists coming to Massachusetts in 2025 Will liquor stores be open on Christmas Eve in Massachusetts? Enfield police K-9 catches suspect of stolen vehicle WWLP-22News, an NBC affiliate, began broadcasting in March 1953 to provide local news, network, syndicated, and local programming to western Massachusetts. Watch the 22News Digital Edition weekdays at 4 p.m. on WWLP.com.