A winning game plan for pets this summer

29 June 2026

Keep your pets happy and healthy during match season

With major sporting events filling our screens this summer, including the FIFA World Cup, Wimbledon, Formula One and more, PDSA is reminding pet owners to consider how celebrations, visitors and match-day snacks could affect their furry family members. 

Shauna Walsh, Vet Nurse at PDSA, shares her advice on helping pets stay safe, calm and comfortable while enjoying the sporting season. 

Visitors and changes to routine 

Shauna explains: “Big sporting events often bring friends and family together, meaning our homes can become much busier than usual. While this can be great fun for people, some pets may find the extra noise, unfamiliar faces and changes to their normal routine stressful. 

“Dogs and cats are creatures of habit, so a house full of visitors can sometimes leave them feeling overwhelmed. If your pet prefers peace and quiet, make sure they have access to a calm, comfortable area where they can retreat if they want some space. This could be a quiet room, a cosy bed in another part of the house, or a familiar hiding spot where they feel safe. 

“It’s also worth reminding guests not to disturb pets when they’re resting and to allow them to approach people in their own time. Some animals enjoy the extra attention, while others may prefer to keep their distance.” 

Watch out for match-day snacks 

Shauna says: “Food is often a big part of watching sporting events, but many popular snacks can be harmful to pets if accidentally eaten. 

“Barbecues, buffets and bowls of snacks left within reach can all present a risk. Foods such as chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, garlic and products containing the sweetener xylitol can be toxic to dogs, while fatty foods can lead to digestive upsets or, in some cases, more serious conditions such as pancreatitis. 

“It's important to keep food out of reach, remind guests not to feed pets from the table, and ensure leftovers are cleared away promptly. Dogs can be very opportunistic when there are lots of people around and may take advantage of a momentary distraction to help themselves.” 

Managing noise and excitement 

Shauna adds: “Whether it's a last-minute goal, a championship-winning point or a tense penalty shootout, sporting events can lead to sudden bursts of cheering, shouting and excitement. 

“While many pets will take this in their stride, some can become frightened or anxious by loud, unexpected noises. You may notice signs such as pacing, panting, hiding, trembling or seeking reassurance from their owner. 

“If your pet is sensitive to noise, try to create a calm environment by providing a quiet space away from the television and any celebrations. Closing windows, drawing curtains and playing background music can also help reduce the impact of sudden noises. 

“Never force your pet to join in with the festivities if they appear uncomfortable. Giving them the choice to move away and relax somewhere quieter can help them feel more secure.” 

Keep celebrations pet-friendly 

“A little planning can go a long way in helping pets enjoy a stress-free summer of sport. By keeping potentially harmful foods out of reach, providing a safe retreat from noise and visitors, and maintaining as much of their usual routine as possible, you can help ensure the whole family (including your pets!) enjoys the celebrations safely.” 

For more advice, visit the Pet Health Hub – pdsa.org.uk/phh