PAWS/LA'S ULTIMATE GUIDE for a PET-friendly easter

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At PAWS/LA, our mission is rooted in the belief that the bond between a person and their pet is sacred. We work every day to ensure that our clients—many of whom are living with a disability—can keep their beloved pets by their sides. Part of that mission is advocacy and education. A happy home is a safe home, and during  holidays, the "danger zone" for pets expands in ways many owners might not expect. 
To help you navigate the festivities, we’ve put together this comprehensive guide to a safe Easter. Here is everything you need to know ensure that your furry family members 

The "Basket Case": Decor and Dangers 

The traditional Easter basket is a sensory playground for cats and dogs alike. Unfortunately, almost every component of a standard basket poses a risk. 

• The Peril of Plastic Grass: That bright green or neon pink plastic "grass" used to cushion eggs is one of the most dangerous items in your home this week. Pets, especially cats, find the texture irresistible. If ingested, these long, thin strands can cause a linear foreign body obstruction. This occurs when one end of the string gets caught (often under the tongue or at the stomach exit) while the rest tries to pass through the intestines. This "sawing" effect can cause fatal internal damage and almost always requires expensive emergency surgery. Safe Alternative: Use recycled paper hay or tissue paper, which is less likely to cause a mechanical blockage. 

• Plastic Eggs and Shards: While hiding plastic eggs is a classic tradition, a determined chewer can easily crack them. Sharp plastic shards can cut a pet’s mouth or throat, and swallowing a whole egg can lead to choking or a complete intestinal blockage. 

• The "Lilies are Lethal" Warning: For cat owners, this is the most critical rule of the season. Easter Lilies (Lilium longiflorum), Tiger lilies, and Daylilies are highly toxic to felines. Every part of the plant—the petals, the leaves, the stem, and even the pollen—can cause acute kidney failure in cats. Even drinking the water from a vase holding lilies can be fatal. If you have a cat, please opt for pet-safe blooms like Gerber daisies, orchids, or sunflowers. 

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​2. The Sweets and the Scraps: A Culinary Minefield 

Easter is often a high-sugar, high-fat holiday. While we enjoy the feast, our pets' digestive systems are not built for "people food." 

• The Chocolate Rule: Most of us know chocolate is bad for dogs, but the concentration matters. Dark chocolate and baking cocoa are much more dangerous than milk chocolate because they contain higher levels of theobromine. Even a small dark chocolate bunny can cause a medical emergency for a small dog, leading to tremors, seizures, and heart arrhythmias. 

• The Hidden Killer: Xylitol (Birch Sugar): Many "sugar-free" candies, gums, and even some brands of peanut butter contain Xylitol. This sugar substitute causes a massive insulin surge in dogs, leading to a life-threatening drop in blood sugar and potential liver failure. Always check the ingredient labels of any "healthier" sweets in the house. 

• Fatty Foods and Pancreatitis: That delicious holiday ham might look like a treat, but high-fat scraps can trigger pancreatitis—a painful and serious inflammation of the pancreas. Additionally, many Easter recipes use onions, garlic, or chives, all of which are toxic to both dogs and cats and can damage their red blood cells. ​

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3. The "Easter Bunny" Myth 

Every year around this time, there is an urge to buy live rabbits or chicks as "living toys" for children. At PAWS/LA, we advocate for responsible pet ownership, which means recognizing that a pet is a lifetime commitment, not a seasonal prop. 
Rabbits are complex, sensitive creatures that require specialized diets, exotic-animal vet care, and indoor "bunny-proofing." Sadly, many "Easter bunnies" are surrendered to local LA shelters by mid-summer when the novelty wears off. If your family is ready for a rabbit, we encourage you to adopt, don't shop. Visit a local rescue or shelter after the holiday rush to find a companion that fits your lifestyle. ​

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4. How to Include Your Pet in the Fun 

Safety doesn't have to mean exclusion! You can absolutely make your pet a part of the celebration with a few modifications: 

• The Kibble Hunt: Instead of hiding candy-filled eggs, hide small piles of your dog’s favorite high-quality treats or kibble around the yard or living room. It’s a great way to provide mental stimulation and "nose work" without the risk of plastic ingestion. 

• Easter "Best" Photoshoots: If your pet is comfortable with it, a festive bowtie or a set of soft bunny ears makes for an adorable photo op. Just ensure the costume doesn't restrict their breathing, vision, or movement, and never leave a costumed pet unsupervised. 

• A Springtime Adventure: Since we're lucky enough to live in Southern California, use the holiday as an excuse for a long walk through a local park or a hike in the Hollywood Hills. The fresh air and quality time are the best gifts you can give your pet. ​

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Final Thoughts from PAWS/LA 

At the end of the day, Easter is about community and connection. For our clients, their pets are often their primary source of emotional support and unconditional love. By keeping your own pets safe, you’re honoring that bond and ensuring your home remains a sanctuary of health and happiness. 

If you find yourself in an emergency this weekend, please have the number for the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (888-426-4435) or your nearest 24-hour emergency vet saved in your phone. 
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From our family to yours, we wish you a beautiful, sunny, and pet-safe Easter! ​