As the holiday season brings travel, guests, and celebration, All Animal Veterinary Services proudly cares for pets across Modena and the surrounding Hudson Valley communities, offering essential holiday pet travel and safety tips to help keep dogs, cats, and exotic pets comfortable, calm, and protected all season long.
The holidays bring sparkle, excitement, and plenty of activity for pets whether furry, feathered, or scaled companions. They may also bring unexpected changes in routine, new environments, and potential hazards. Whether you are driving across New York, flying to see family, or hosting a full house, these tips will help your pets enjoy the celebrations right alongside you.
1. Holiday Pet Travel Safety: Protecting Pets on the Road and in the Air
Many families travel during the holidays, and pets often come along. But winter roads, traffic, and unfamiliar surroundings can pose risks if pets aren’t secured properly.
An unrestrained pet can be seriously injured—or injure others—in a sudden stop. The American Humane Society notes that a 10-pound dog in a 50-mph crash exerts 500 pounds of force, while an 80-pound dog in a 30-mph crash generates 2,400 pounds of force—the equivalent of being hit by a small motorcycle.
Keep pets safe during holiday road trips:
- Use a crash-tested carrier or seat-belt harness for dogs and cats.
- Secure carriers in the back seat with a seat belt.
- Stabilize habitats for birds, reptiles, and small mammals and protect them from temperature swings.
- Never allow pets to ride on your lap or hang their heads out the window.
- Keep pets leashed or contained before opening car doors — essential at rest stops and parking lots.
- Confirm your pet’s microchip and ID tags are up to date before traveling.
Flying with Pets From New York Airports
If holiday travel includes flying, plan early — airline rules vary widely.
- Check airline requirements for carrier size and approved materials.
- Confirm whether your pet may travel in the cabin or must go in cargo.
- Ask your veterinarian whether your pet — especially short-nosed breeds or exotics — is healthy enough to fly.
- Discuss calming options if your pet becomes anxious; only use tranquilizers if your veterinarian recommends them.
- Use a well-ventilated, escape-proof carrier labeled clearly with your name, phone number, and destination.
- For birds, reptiles, and other exotics, confirm airline policies, temperature limits, and required documentation.
Even short trips require thoughtful planning to keep pets relaxed, safe, and comfortable from start to finish.
2. Winter Car Safety for Pets in New York
New York winters can be unpredictable — icy mornings, slushy roads, and intense wind chill can affect pets quickly. And while wintry weather is a risk, even cool days can heat a parked car faster than expected.
On a 55°F sunny day, a parked car can reach 115–120°F within an hour — dangerous for any pet.
Keep pets safe during winter errands and travel:
- Never leave pets unattended in a vehicle.
- Bring extra blankets or warm towels for smaller or sensitive pets.
- Maintain steady airflow and avoid parking in direct sunlight.
- Protect birds, reptiles, and small mammals from drafts, sudden chilling, or overheating.
Planning ahead helps prevent hypothermia, chills, and heat stress — risks that can sneak up quickly in cold climates.
3. Keep These Foods Off Your Pet’s Holiday Menu
Holiday Foods to Keep Away From Pets
Holiday tables are full of tempting smells and flavors, but many seasonal foods can cause serious illness in dogs, cats, and exotic pets. Keep all pets safely away from the following:
Dangerous Foods for Dogs, Cats, and Exotic Pets
- Chocolate
- Grapes and raisins
- Foods containing xylitol (sugar-free baked goods, candies, gum, some peanut butters)
- Onions, garlic, leeks, and chives (found in stuffing, gravies, seasoned meats)
- Fatty leftovers such as ham trimmings, turkey skin, gravy, butter-heavy dishes
- Bones that can splinter (turkey, chicken, ham, or any cooked bones)
- Raw or yeast dough (expands in the stomach; causes bloating and alcohol poisoning)
- Non-yeast doughs (rich in fats that may trigger vomiting or pancreatitis)
- Alcohol in desserts, sauces, or extracts
- Caffeine (coffee, tea, chocolate desserts)
- Macadamia nuts
- Nutmeg and heavily spiced foods
- High-salt foods (stuffing, cured meats, broths)
Extra Cautions for Exotic Pets
Exotic pets (birds, reptiles, rabbits, guinea pigs, and small mammals) have very specific nutritional needs. In addition to the foods above, they should avoid:
- Avocado (dangerous for birds and many small mammals)
- Dairy products (birds, reptiles, and small mammals cannot digest lactose)
- Seasoned or buttered vegetables
- Fruit pits and apple seeds
- High-fat foods (can cause GI stasis in rabbits and small mammals)
- Chocolate (extremely dangerous for birds and small mammals)
Friendly Reminder for Guests
Remind guests not to feed your pets — many holiday foods look harmless but can be dangerous. A quick, polite reminder helps prevent stomach upset, toxicity, and unexpected emergencies.
Safer Treat Ideas
- Plain, cooked turkey or chicken with no seasoning and no bones (safe for dogs and cats)
- Plain pumpkin purée (no sugar or spices) for dogs and cats
- Vet-approved holiday treats
For exotic pets: Some fruits and vegetables may be safe, but others are not. Always check which foods are appropriate for your specific species before sharing anything outside their normal diet.
4. Decorations, Plants & Party Hazards
Holiday Decorations
New décor is exciting for pets — sometimes too exciting.
Try these pet-friendly decorating tips:
- Choose shatterproof or soft ornaments.
- Keep cords and lights elevated or covered.
- Use battery-operated candles instead of open flames.
- Secure your Christmas tree so curious pets cannot knock it over.
- Consider a tabletop tree for climbers or birds.
Holiday Plants
Many holiday plants are toxic to pets:
- Poinsettias – May cause mouth irritation and vomiting.
- Holly – Can cause stomach upset or injury from sharp leaves.
- Mistletoe – May cause vomiting, breathing issues, or heart problems.
- Lilies – Extremely toxic to cats and rabbits; even tiny exposures can lead to kidney failure.
Safer festive alternatives include:
- Christmas cactus
- Bromeliads
- Orchids
- Unsprayed roses
- Spider plants
Remember: “Pet-safe” does not mean edible. Even nontoxic plants can cause digestive upset if chewed.
For exotic pets, keep enclosures away from scented candles, loud gatherings, or cold drafts. A quiet room helps them feel safe during celebrations.
5. Winter Walks & Outdoor Adventures
New York winters bring slush, ice melt (de-icing) chemicals, and sudden temperature drops — all tough on sensitive paws and respiratory systems.
Keep pets safe from winter weather:
- Wipe paws after walks to remove salt, ice melt, or debris.
- Use a jacket or sweater for short-haired dogs or seniors.
- Avoid icy walkways and trails.
- Keep exotic pets indoors — birds, reptiles, and small mammals are extremely sensitive to even mild temperature changes.
6. Wishing You and Your Pets a Safe, Joyful Holiday Season
The greatest gift you can give your pets is your love and attention to their comfort and safety. Whether you are traveling, hosting guests, or enjoying quiet moments at home, these holiday pet travel and safety tips will help your dogs, cats, and exotic pets stay healthy, happy, and stress-free throughout the season.
Schedule Your Holiday Wellness Visit
All Animal Veterinary Services proudly cares for pets across Modena and the surrounding Hudson Valley communities, and our team is here to support your pets through every holiday adventure — and every cozy moment at home.
All Animal Veterinary Services
2264 Route 32
Modena, NY
Call us to schedule a wellness exam or consultation.
