05 Feb 2025
By Humane Society of Ventura County
The Super Bowl isn’t just a game—it’s an event. Whether you're hosting a party, attending a gathering, or just enjoying the game with your family, there’s plenty of excitement to go around. However, with all the noise, food, and chaos, it’s important not to forget about your furry friends. Pets can easily become stressed or even get into trouble during the Super Bowl festivities.
To help you keep your pets safe and comfortable while you cheer on your team, we’ve put together a list of pet safety tips for the big day.
Photo credit: People Entertainment
Create a Safe Space for Your Pet
The Super Bowl is filled with loud cheers, unexpected noises, and flashing lights—all of which can be overwhelming for pets, especially those who are sensitive to sound. To help your pet feel safe and calm, designate a quiet area away from the action where they can retreat. This space should have their bed, water bowl, and maybe even a few of their favorite toys to keep them occupied. If your pet is crate-trained, this can be a great time to use their crate as a calming sanctuary.
Keep Dangerous Foods Out of Reach
Super Bowl snacks are a big part of the fun, but many of the foods you enjoy could be harmful to your pet. Foods like chocolate, onions, garlic, avocado, and certain nuts (like macadamia) are toxic to pets. Additionally, fatty foods and salty snacks like chips and dip can cause digestive issues and even pancreatitis in pets. Keep all human food out of reach, and be sure your guests are aware of what’s safe (and what’s not) for pets.
Say No to Chicken Wings
Stay focused on the game despite those adorable puppy dog eyes! It’s tough to resist when your pets are begging for a taste of your chicken wings, but it’s important not to give in. Smaller bones from chickens and other birds can pose a choking hazard for your furry friends. If a bone splinters, it could lead to serious injury in your pet’s digestive system. Plus, the extra salt can be harmful, too. Keep an eye out for symptoms of too much salt consumption, which may include diarrhea, vomiting, tremors, or even elevated body temperature and seizures. Your pet’s safety is worth it!
Watch for Loud Noises
The Super Bowl is known for loud halftime shows and enthusiastic crowds. While exciting for many, these sounds can frighten pets, especially anxious ones. To help your pet stay calm, consider playing soothing music or keeping the TV volume reasonable. Use calming tools like pheromone sprays, or consult your vet about anti-anxiety medication if your pet panics during loud events. The commercials are also often loud and abrupt, with flashing lights and high-energy visuals, which can stress sensitive pets. If your pet shows signs of anxiety during the game or commercials, distract them with treats, toys, or calming activities. Keeping the TV volume low or muting it during loud ads is advisable.
Supervise Interactions with Guests
If you're having people over to watch the game, be mindful of how your pet interacts with guests. Not everyone knows how to properly approach or handle a pet, so it’s important to supervise these interactions. Some pets may get overwhelmed or anxious with too much attention, especially from strangers. Set boundaries and ensure your guests respect your pet’s space. If your pet is more social, make sure they’re not getting too much attention or becoming overstimulated, which can lead to anxiety or accidents.