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The Winnipeg Humane Society Humane Holiday Guide
It’s never been easier to celebrate the holiday season with our animal friends in mind. Our Humane Holiday Guide includes tree options that are kind to wildlife, cruelty-free gift ideas, plant-based meal inspiration, and tips to keep your companion animals safe amongst all of the holiday excitement.
Holiday Tree Shopping
Tree farms clear wild land for monoculture, which can be detrimental to native wildlife by reducing their natural habitat. Good news! A second-hand artificial tree will not only save money but can be reused for years to come. Or buy a potted, live tree that can be replanted outside after the holidays! Check out Academy Florists and Lacoste Garden Centre for potted live tree options in Winnipeg.
Gift Kindness to All
When choosing what to get that special someone, we often don’t think about the effects on animals.
For example, plastics can end up in waterways and other ecosystems, contaminating habitats, leaching chemicals into rivers and streams, and becoming part of the food chain for unsuspecting wildlife.
If you are looking for a specific plastic product, try finding it gently used! This may seem small but will help reduce demand for future plastic products. Thrifting toys, holiday décor, and household items can be a lot of fun! Or opt for low-impact gifts like local experiences!
And of course, when gifting winter clothing, opt for cruelty-free brands like:
Nowadays, there are a large variety of cruelty-free cosmetics, personal and home care products to gift. Find a complete list of humane brands and products at leapingbunny.org and ethicalelephant.com.
Lastly, for those who say they have everything they need, give the gift of charity with a donation to the Winnipeg Humane Society’s Animal Welfare Department.
Host a Plant-based Feast
With so many plant-based options at the grocery store and plant-based recipe creators online, it has never been easier to celebrate peace on earth without animal products. Wildlife benefit from plant-based festivities as well, given animal agriculture is the leading cause of deforestation, biodiversity loss, water pollution, air pollution, ocean degradation, and greenhouse gas emissions.
Check out some of our favorite recipe creators for plant-based holiday meal ideas:
No time to bake? Check out these local plant-based bakers for treats that are sure to please everyone:
Eiffel Tower Pastry Shop & Catering
Celebrate Safely with Companion Animals
Including our animal friends in the holiday festivities is a must but there are some parts of the celebration that should be left for humans only like foods containing chocolate, xylitol, raisins/grapes, onions, and other toxic foods. Here are a few other tips to keep your pets safe this holiday season:
- Make sure holiday lights and candles are out of reach and turned off when animals are home alone.
- Keep holiday plants (especially holly, mistletoe and lilies) out of reach of pets.
- Consider leaving the tinsel off your tree if you have a cat.
- When entertaining, provide a safe place for your animals to take a break from the excitement if they desire.
Shout out
Some tips above came from local journalist and animal advocate Jessica Scott Reid. Read more of her suggestions for a sustainable holiday.