From road trips to family gatherings, Oak Creek Small Animal Clinic shares holiday pet travel and safety tips to help Sedona’s pets stay comfortable, calm, and protected throughout the season.
Christmas is a wonderful time to make memories with family, friends, and pets. Whether you are driving down to Phoenix, flying out for the holidays, or hosting loved ones at home, the season brings excitement—and sometimes unexpected hazards—for furry, feathered, and scaled companions. These holiday pet travel and safety tips from Oak Creek Small Animal Clinic will help keep your pets safe, comfortable, and healthy through every part of the celebration.
1. Holiday Pet Travel Safety: Protecting Pets on the Road and in the Air
Many Sedona families hit the road during the holidays, and pets often come along for the ride. But driving through the curves of Oak Creek Canyon, heading into higher altitudes, or navigating winter weather can pose risks if pets are not properly secured.
An unrestrained pet can be seriously injured—or injure others—during a sudden stop. A 10-pound dog in a 50-mph crash can exert 500 pounds of force, and an 80-pound dog in a 30-mph crash can generate 2,400 pounds of force.
Keep pets safe during holiday road trips:
- Use a crash-tested carrier or seat-belt harness for dogs and cats.
- Keep carriers in the back seat and secure them with a seat belt.
- For birds, reptiles, and small mammals, stabilize travel habitats 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, especially important at rest stops, viewpoints, or trailheads.
- Confirm your pet’s microchip and ID tags are updated before you travel.
Flying with Pets from Phoenix or Flagstaff
If your holiday plans include flying, a bit of extra preparation goes a long way.
- Check airline requirements for approved carrier types and sizes and confirm whether pets are allowed in the cabin or must travel in cargo.
- Ask your veterinarian whether your pet—especially short-nosed breeds like pugs, bulldogs, or Persian cats or exotics—is healthy enough to fly.
- Discuss calming options if your pet is anxious; avoid tranquilizers unless your veterinarian specifically prescribes them, as they can affect breathing at altitude.
- Make sure your carrier is well-ventilated, escape-proof, and labeled clearly with your name, phone number, and destination.
- For birds, reptiles, and other exotics, confirm the airline’s policies, temperature limits, and any required certifications.
Even short trips by car or plane require thoughtful planning to keep pets relaxed, safe, and comfortable from door to door.
2. Winter Car Safety for Pets in Northern Arizona
Sedona evenings can drop into the 30s or colder, and shaded areas along the canyon may hold ice well into the morning. But even on cold days, a parked car in direct sun can heat up quickly. On a 55–60°F winter day, a car sitting in the sun can climb to 115–120°F within an hour—dangerous for any pet.
Keep pets safe during holiday errands and travel:
- Never leave pets unattended in a vehicle.
- Bring extra blankets or a warm towel for smaller or sensitive pets.
- Keep airflow steady and avoid parking in direct sunlight.
- Protect birds, reptiles, and small mammals from drafts, rapid cooling, or overheating.
Planning ahead helps prevent dehydration, chills, and heat stress—common risks during desert winters.
3. Keep These Foods Off Your Pet’s Holiday Menu
Holiday treats are everywhere, but many seasonal foods can make pets sick.
Keep pets away from:
- Chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, garlic
- Foods containing xylitol
- Ham trimmings, turkey skin, and other fatty leftovers
- Bones, which can splinter and cause internal injuries
- Raw pastry dough — especially yeast dough — can expand in the stomach and cause dangerous bloating and even alcohol poisoning. Even non-yeast doughs are high in fats and can lead to stomach upset or pancreatitis.
Exotic pets may also get into dangerous foods if enclosures are left open or guests offer snacks they should not.
Share safer treats instead:
- Plain, cooked turkey or chicken (no seasoning)
- Plain pumpkin purée (no sugar or spices)
- Vet-approved holiday treats
Note: Plain pumpkin purée is safe for dogs and cats but is not appropriate for many exotic pets. Always check with your veterinarian before offering any human foods to birds, reptiles, or small mammals. To learn more about pumpkin for dogs, cats, or exotic pets read our blog, Your Fall Pet Care Guide.
4. Decorations, Plants, and Party Hazards
Holiday Decorations
Pets often explore new decorations—sometimes too enthusiastically. Sedona homes filled with lights, glitter, and greenery can be irresistible to curious paws or beaks.
Try these pet-friendly decorating ideas:
- Choose shatterproof or soft ornaments instead of fragile glass.
- Keep electrical cords and lights up high or protected.
- Use battery-operated candles for a warm glow without fire hazards.
- Create safe, colorful décor with paper chains, felt garlands, or wooden ornaments.
- Secure your tree so excited pets cannot knock it over, or consider a tabletop tree for birds or climbers.
Holiday Plants
Christmas Cactus
Many holiday plants are toxic to pets:
- Poinsettias – Can cause mouth irritation and vomiting.
- Holly – Causes stomach upset and injuries from sharp leaves.
- Mistletoe – May cause vomiting, breathing issues, or heart problems.
- Lilies – Extremely toxic to cats and rabbits; even pollen can cause kidney failure.
Safer, festive plant options include:
- Christmas cactus
- Bromeliads
- Orchids
- Unsprayed roses
- Spider plants
* Keep in mind that ‘pet-safe’ does not mean edible. Even non-toxic plants can cause vomiting or diarrhea if pets chew on them or eat too much.
* For exotic pets, keep enclosures away from scented candles, noisy gatherings, or cold drafts. A quiet room can help them feel secure during busy celebrations.
5. Winter Walks and Outdoor Adventures in Sedona
Sedona’s winter weather varies—crisp mornings, dry afternoons, and sudden cold fronts. Pets can feel these shifts quickly.
Keep pets safe outdoors:
- Wipe paws to remove ice melt, dirt, or red rock dust.
- Use a light jacket for short-haired dogs or seniors on cold mornings.
- Avoid icy trails, especially in shady areas of Oak Creek Canyon.
- Keep exotic pets indoors, reptiles, birds, and small mammals are sensitive to even mild temperature drops.
6. Wishing You—and Your Pets—a Safe, Joyful Holiday Season
The best gift you can give your pets is your love and attention to their comfort and safety. Whether you are traveling, hosting guests, or enjoying a peaceful Sedona holiday at home, these holiday pet travel and safety tips will help your dogs, cats, and exotic pets enjoy the season at your side.
Schedule your pet’s holiday wellness visit at Oak Creek Small Animal Clinic.
Our team is here to keep your furry, feathered, and scaled companions healthy for every adventure this season and beyond.
Oak Creek Small Animal Clinic
1049 Highway 89A
Sedona, AZ 86336
(928) 282-1195
