Ultrasound Appointments, Now Available - Every Monday & Tuesday
Due to limited staffing, we are now accepting emergencies only on a priority basis on Saturdays
Newsletter November-2025
Holiday Newsletter: Safe Travels & Foods to Avoid
The holiday season is here — full of celebrations, family gatherings, and winter getaways. As you plan your trips and delicious holiday feasts, it’s important to remember that the season can bring unique risks for our furry friends.
The holiday season is here — full of celebrations, family gatherings, and winter getaways. As you plan your trips and delicious holiday feasts, it’s important to remember that the season can bring unique risks for our furry friends.
Whether your pet is traveling with you or staying behind, a little preparation goes a long way in keeping them safe.
At Dry Creek Veterinary Hospital, we’re here to help you enjoy a stress-free, pet-safe holiday season.
✈️ Holiday Travel Safety for Pets
Travel can be exciting but overwhelming for animals. Here’s how to make their journey safe and comfortable:
1. If Your Pet Is Boarding
- Book early—holiday spots fill quickly.
- Ensure vaccinations are up to date (especially Bordetella, Influenza, & Rabies).
- Pack familiar items like their favorite blanket or toy to reduce stress.
- Share feeding schedules, medications, and special needs with the boarding staff.
2. Car Travel Tips
- Always use a secure crate or pet seat belt.
- Keep your pet in the back seat for maximum safety.
- Plan frequent breaks.
- Never leave pets alone in the car — even in cool weather.
3. Air Travel Reminders
- Check airline requirements well in advance.
- Use an airline-approved crate with proper ventilation.
- Label the crate with your contact details and “Live Animal.”
- Feed your pet 2–3 hours before the flight.
🍗 Holiday Foods That Can Be Dangerous
Festive meals smell delicious to pets, but many holiday favorites are toxic or unsafe. Keep these items far from your dog or cat:
🚫 Foods to Avoid
- Turkey bones → can splinter and cause choking or internal injury
- Grapes & raisins → can cause kidney failure
- Onions, garlic, leeks → toxic to red blood cells
- Chocolate & desserts → contain harmful sweeteners like xylitol
- Alcohol → extremely dangerous, even in small amounts
- Fatty table scraps → may cause pancreatitis
If your pet ingests any of these, contact your veterinarian Fright away.
🎄 Safe Treat Alternatives
- Boneless, cooked turkey (plain, no seasoning)
- Steamed veggies like carrots, green beans, or pumpkin
- Pet-friendly holiday treats or chew toys
✨ Final Holiday Reminder
Whether your pet travels with you or stays locally, a quickpre-holiday checkup can ensure they’re healthy and ready for a fun, stress-free season.
Wishing you and your pets a safe, joyful, and healthy holiday season! 🐶🐱💙