(Family Features) The holiday season means fun and festivities for all, but getting wrapped up in all the excitement and celebrations can lead to forgetting about safety and precautions, especially for pets.

Consider these seven tips to help you spot potential hazards around the holidays and keep your pets healthy and happy.

Food for Thought: Sweet treats and savory bites are treasured holiday pastimes for humans, but that can also mean things like chocolates, nuts and animal bones should be supervised carefully so your pets don’t ingest something toxic or harmful. Other human foods to put on the do-not-share list include garlic, onions and grapes. It’s also wise to keep your trash in a tightly sealed container or hidden somewhere your pet can’t access.

Keep Calm and Carry On: The holiday season brings people together for milestones and celebrations, but all the hoopla can be stressful for pets. From the loud music and new visitors to kids running around or fireworks going off, some pets can become overwhelmed. To help keep your pets comfortable and calm, try turning on a TV or some soothing music in a quiet room away from the noises or let them curl up on their favorite bed with a toy or treat to distract them. You can also try introducing a calming supplement like Zesty Paws Calming Bites for Dogs that may help with normal stress, nervousness and hyperactivity during stressful situations.

Watch Out for Tree Trimmings and Poisonous Plants: While poinsettias and festive fir trees are holiday classics, they can also be extremely hazardous to pets. It’s important to be careful about what you’re bringing inside your home. Many holiday plants like holly, lilies, amaryllis and even pine needles from trees can be toxic if ingested. If ingestion does occur, contact a pet poison hotline or your veterinarian. If it’s after hours or in the event of an emergency, find your nearest 24-hour emergency veterinary clinic.

Watch the Weather: Changing temperatures and harsh conditions can wreak havoc on human skin, so it’s no surprise it can also affect pets’ skin and coats. You can try reducing their bathing frequency, keeping up with brushings and providing extra hydration to keep them feeling their best. Another way to keep your pet’s skin and coat healthy is to add supplements that contain essential fatty acids. A fish oil, like Zesty Paws Wild Alaskan Salmon Oil, provides omega-3s for dogs to help nourish their skin and coats.

Stick to a Routine: Pets thrive on routines for feeding, potty breaks and exercise, so be conscious of how your holiday plans may shake things up. Try to stick to your regular schedule as closely as possible or consider asking a friend or relative to help if you’ll be away during regular feeding or outdoor break times.

Spend Some Quality Time: In addition to providing companionship and love, spending time with pets can also reduce stress, anxiety and depression; ease loneliness; and encourage exercise and playfulness. Even though you may be traveling or partying with friends, be sure to spend some quality time with your fur babies this holiday season, too.

Give Them Gifts: Humans aren’t the only ones who love to get gifts. Few things beat the look on dog’s faces when you pull out a new toy or treat for them to enjoy. Whether it’s a new leash, ball or cozy bed, be sure you have a little something to give your furry family members this holiday season as well.

For more information and ways to keep your pets happy and healthy, visit ZestyPaws.com.

Photo courtesy of Getty Images (family with dog)

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SOURCE:
Zesty Paws

https://stmdailynews.com/category/lifestyle/pets

Purple Leash Project takes center stage at U.S. Women’s National Team match, raising awareness about a heartbreaking choice facing abuse survivors and their beloved pets.

By STM Daily News | Lifestyle & Pets | October 12, 2026

WASHINGTON, D.C. — For many people, pets are more than companions. They’re family, providing comfort, unconditional love, and emotional support during life’s most difficult moments. But for survivors of domestic violence, the bond with a beloved pet can create an unexpected obstacle when trying to escape an abusive environment.

Actress and longtime domestic violence advocate Mariska Hargitay joined Purina and the U.S. Women’s National Soccer Team on October 10, 2026, to shine a spotlight on this often-overlooked issue.

During the team’s match against Spain at Audi Field in Washington, D.C., Hargitay served as Purina’s Honorary Captain, helping promote the company’s Purple Leash Project, an initiative designed to help domestic violence survivors find safety without leaving their pets behind.

The appearance was part of Domestic Violence Awareness Month, observed every October.

When Escaping Abuse Means Leaving a Pet Behind

For someone experiencing domestic violence, leaving an abusive relationship can be dangerous and emotionally overwhelming. The situation becomes even more complicated when pets are involved.

According to statistics cited by Purina:

• Only 20% of domestic violence shelters allow pets.
• 48% of survivors delay leaving an abusive situation because they cannot take their pets with them.

These figures illustrate a significant barrier to safety.

For survivors whose pets provide emotional stability and companionship, the possibility of abandoning an animal can be devastating. Some may also fear that an abusive partner will harm a pet left behind.

The Purple Leash Project seeks to eliminate that difficult choice by helping domestic violence shelters become more accommodating to animals.

What Is the Purple Leash Project?

The Purple Leash Project is a partnership between Purina and RedRover, a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping animals and strengthening the human-animal bond.

Through grants and financial assistance, the initiative supports domestic violence shelters and social service organizations by funding:

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• Renovations that make shelters pet-friendly.
• On-site and off-site housing for survivors’ pets.
• Essential pet supplies and accommodations.
• Necessary veterinary services for animals entering shelter programs.

According to Purina, the initiative has already provided nearly 70 grants totaling more than $2.2 million across over 30 states.

The company has also established a goal of helping provide one million safe nights for survivors and their pets by the end of 2030.

The ultimate objective is simple: Nobody should have to choose between personal safety and protecting a beloved animal.

Mariska Hargitay Brings the Message to the Soccer Field

Hargitay, widely recognized for portraying Olivia Benson on Law & Order: Special Victims Unit, has spent years advocating for survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault.

Her participation in the U.S. Women’s National Team event brought additional visibility to the Purple Leash Project.

During the pre-match ceremonies, Hargitay participated in the ceremonial coin toss alongside Cassidy, a 75-pound Golden Retriever therapy dog, and Cassidy’s handler, Patrice “Pat” Eller.

Cassidy and Eller are part of a Pet Partners therapy team that helps provide comfort to children who may be required to testify in court.

Their presence illustrated the important role animals can play in helping people cope with traumatic experiences.

“Seeing the Purple Leash Project take the field helped turn the stadium into a powerful show of support for survivors and the pets they love,” Hargitay said in a statement released by Purina.

She also emphasized the importance of reducing the stigma surrounding domestic violence and creating more safe spaces where survivors and their pets can recover together.

A Special Soccer Scarf Supporting Survivors and Pets

To encourage fans to participate in the initiative, Purina and U.S. Soccer introduced a limited-edition Courageous & Comfy Soccer Scarf.

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The officially licensed scarf is available through the Purple Leash Project’s online store.

According to Purina, 100% of every scarf purchase is donated to RedRover, supporting the effort to help survivors and their pets remain together.

Fans interested in supporting the initiative can visit:

Purple Leash Project Scarf Store

Additional information about the initiative is available at:

Purina’s Purple Leash Project

Bringing Pets Into the Soccer Experience

Beyond raising awareness for domestic violence survivors, Purina used the event to highlight the relationship between sports fans and their pets.

At Audi Field, the company introduced the Purina Club, a temporary pet-friendly seating area where fans could attend the match with their dogs.

The initiative reflects Purina’s growing involvement in soccer, including collaborations with U.S. Soccer and pet-centered activities associated with the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

While these efforts celebrate the companionship pets bring to everyday life, the Purple Leash Project addresses a more serious reality: For some individuals, the ability to remain with their animals can influence whether they can safely leave an abusive situation.

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Why the Human-Animal Bond Matters

Anyone who has experienced the companionship of a dog, cat, or another beloved pet understands how deeply animals can become part of a family.

Pets offer familiarity, routine, comfort, and emotional connection. During times of uncertainty, those relationships can become especially meaningful.

For survivors of domestic violence, maintaining that bond can provide an important source of reassurance while rebuilding their lives.

The Purple Leash Project recognizes that protecting survivors and protecting their animals are often interconnected needs.

“At Purina, we believe survivor safety shouldn’t require sacrifice,” said Nina Leigh Krueger, CEO of Purina, in the company’s announcement.

That philosophy is at the heart of the initiative’s mission to expand access to safe, pet-friendly shelter accommodations.

How You Can Help

Supporting survivors and their pets doesn’t necessarily require a major financial commitment.

Individuals can learn more about the Purple Leash Project, support participating organizations, share information about pet-friendly domestic violence shelters, or contribute to nonprofit programs that help families and animals in crisis.

Organizations such as RedRover also provide resources designed to strengthen the human-animal bond and assist animals during emergencies.

Learn more at RedRover.org.

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For anyone currently experiencing domestic violence in the United States, confidential assistance is available through the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) or TheHotline.org. If immediate danger exists, call 911.

A Safer Future for Survivors and Their Pets

The partnership between Purina, Mariska Hargitay, RedRover, and U.S. Soccer demonstrates how public awareness campaigns can help bring attention to problems that often remain unseen.

For survivors of domestic violence, the path to safety should not mean having to abandon a loyal companion.

And for the pets who depend on their families, remaining together can mean everything.

By helping shelters accommodate animals, the Purple Leash Project is working toward a future where survivors and their pets can escape dangerous situations, find stability, and begin healing together.

More Lifestyle & Pet Stories From STM Daily News

At STM Daily News, we believe stories about pets are also stories about people, families, communities, and the powerful connections that make life meaningful.

Explore more stories about animal welfare, pet care, family life, and community initiatives in our Lifestyle section at STM Daily News.

Stay informed. Stay connected. Discover stories that matter.

Sources and Additional Resources

• Purina — Purple Leash Project
• RedRover — Animal Welfare and Crisis Support
• National Domestic Violence Hotline
• U.S. Soccer

Source: Nestlé Purina PetCare press release, October 11, 2026. Statistics and grant figures attributed to Purina.

(Feature Impact) You’re not imagining it – like many goods and services, pet care costs have gone up.

In fact, Healthy Paws Pet Insurance reported a 38% increase in pet services over the past five years with pet parents spending more than $4,200 a year on routine expenses for a cat or dog.

Lots of factors are driving increased costs, from higher ingredient prices for pet food – like meat and grains – to veterinary drug shortages. Add in rising labor and transportation costs and those everyday expenses can start to take a bigger bite out of your budget.

There are simple ways to keep costs in check, however, while still giving your furry friends the care they deserve:

1. Prioritize Preventive Care

Routine checkups, vaccinations and screenings can catch health issues early when they are easier and less expensive to treat. Most pets should see a veterinarian at least once a year, while puppies, kittens and senior pets may need more frequent visits.

Preventive medications play an important role as well. Treating heartworm disease, for example, can cost thousands while monthly prevention costs $15-$30.

2. Focus on Daily Wellness

Consistent exercise helps reduce the risk of chronic conditions and supports overall health. Most dogs benefit from at least 30 minutes of daily activity while cats need regular play to stay active.

Feeding appropriate portions can also help with weight maintenance. Portion sizes vary, but a good starting point is the feeding guidelines on your pet food label, adjusting as needed with your veterinarian’s input.

3. Find Support in Your Community

Many local humane societies and rescue groups offer resources that make pet care more accessible, including low-cost vaccinations, spay and neuter services and discounted supplies.

For seniors, local Meals on Wheels providers can be important resources. With support from PetSmart Charities, many local providers offer free pet food and, in some cases, services like veterinary care and grooming. To date, 20 million pet meals have been delivered through this collaboration, helping keep pets healthy and in loving homes with older adults.

4. Plan Ahead for Unexpected Costs

Even with routine care, unexpected illnesses or injuries can happen – and costs can add up. The PetSmart Charities-Gallup State of Pet Care research revealed 52% of pet parents skipped or declined veterinary care services in 2025, with the majority citing cost as the key barrier.

Pet insurance can help manage risk. Most policies reimburse a percentage of covered veterinary costs after you meet a deductible, helping offset unexpected bills. Plans vary, but average monthly premiums are around $60 for dogs and $30 for cats.

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It’s also important to be open with your veterinarian about financial concerns. In many cases, clinics may be able to offer payment plans, or look for low-cost-veterinary care resources in your area.

To find a local provider and learn whether pet support is available in your area, visit mealsonwheelsamerica.org/lovepets.

A Companion Through It All

A devastating cancer diagnosis left Lois hospitalized for eight months. Afterward, she began receiving home-delivered meals through her local Meals on Wheels provider. That connection proved to be a lifeline.

“When I was sick,” Lois said, “the Meals on Wheels volunteers … were the only company I had.”

That changed when a small white kitten with calico markings showed up at her front door. Today, that kitten – now named Grace – is rarely far from Lois’s side.

Though Grace softens Lois’s loneliness, caring for a pet on a fixed income isn’t always easy. For many seniors, it can mean making difficult choices, like stretching groceries or delaying medical care, just to afford pet food and supplies. Through support from her local provider, food is delivered for Grace as part of Lois’s regular meal service, helping keep them both healthy, happy and, most importantly, together.

SOURCE:

Meals on Wheels

Our Lifestyle section on STM Daily News is a hub of inspiration and practical information, offering a range of articles that touch on various aspects of daily life. From tips on family finances to guides for maintaining health and wellness, we strive to empower our readers with knowledge and resources to enhance their lifestyles. Whether you’re seeking outdoor activity ideas, fashion trends, or travel recommendations, our lifestyle section has got you covered. Visit us today at https://stmdailynews.com/category/lifestyle/ and embark on a journey of discovery and self-improvement.