A pet parent’s guide to holiday travel

As the holiday season approaches and travel plans begin to shape, it’s a wonderful time to include your four-legged family member in the fun. But whether you’re heading across state lines or simply joining relatives for the week, traveling with your pet involves planning and care. To help with that, we’re sharing smart, stress-reducing tips to ensure your pets travel comfortably this holiday season.

1. Plan ahead: Book smart and early

Pet-friendly lodging fills up quickly during the holidays, so reserve your accommodations early and review any policies such as size or breed restrictions, additional fees, and access to nearby green space. If you’re planning to fly, make sure to secure your pet’s spot in advance, as airlines often cap the number of in-cabin animals and may have stricter cargo requirements. For road trips, map out rest stops, pet-friendly restaurants, and safe overnight accommodations ahead of time. A bit of planning goes a long way in easing the journey for both you and your pet.

2. Vet check and paperwork

Before heading out for the holidays, schedule a quick check-in with your veterinarian to verify your pet’s vaccinations are current, especially because new environments can bring unfamiliar germs and added stress. Double-check that your pet is microchipped and that ID tags are up to date. Also consider adding a temporary tag with your holiday address or cell number while you’re away. If your plans take you across state lines or internationally, review any required health certificates, import or export rules, and airline policies ahead of time. These regulations can be layered and sometimes confusing, so sorting them out early helps your trip go smoothly from the start.

3. Transportation tips

For car travel, be sure your pet is safely and comfortably secured using a crate, harness, or seatbelt designed specifically for animals. Letting them roam freely can be a distraction and leave them vulnerable to injury. Pack their essentials, including a familiar blanket or toy, a water bowl, an extra leash, and their regular food with one to two days extra, just in case. Plan for regular breaks so your dog or cat can stretch, take a potty break, and get some fresh air along the way.

If you’re flying or using other public transportation, take time to understand the carrier’s requirements, including size limits, breed restrictions, cabin versus cargo rules, and any weather or temperature policies. Help your pet adjust by acclimating them to their carrier well before departure, and whenever possible, choose direct flights to minimize stress and reduce layovers.

4. Comfort

Travel can easily disrupt a pet’s routine and heighten their anxiety, so try to keep feeding, walking, bathroom, and sleep times as close to their normal schedule as possible. Bringing their favorite toys, bedding, or anything with familiar scents can offer a comforting sense of home and help reduce stress. If your pet tends to struggle with travel anxiety, speak with your veterinarian ahead of time about safe and effective calming options to make the journey more enjoyable for all.

5. Destination and stay

Once you arrive at your destination, take a moment to inspect the space for potential hazards, such as loose wires, unsecured doors, windows, or fences, unfamiliar plants, and nearby animals you weren’t expecting. Keep your pet leashed or in a secure area until you’re confident they’re comfortable, as new environments can come with new triggers. Try not to leave them alone for long stretches in an unfamiliar setting, and on travel days, build in extra time for rest—pets get tired from the journey just like we do.

With holiday décor in full swing, stay mindful of dangers like chocolate, grapes, poinsettias, onions, tinsel, and ribbons, and if you’re visiting a host’s home, gently share any food rules to keep your pet safe.

Also consider the weather. Ensure your pet’s sleeping area is warm enough, avoid leaving them in cold cars, be cautious of salted sidewalks, and if you’re driving through snow or ice, allow extra travel time and more frequent stops for everyone’s safety.

Your pre-departure checklist

• Leash, harness, and collar with current ID tag
• Updated microchip information
• Comfortably sized travel carrier or crate
• Enough food for the entire trip (plus extra)
• Portable food and water bowls
• Medications and copies of vet records + vaccination certificate
• Required health certificates (if flying or crossing borders)
• Pet-friendly lodging and travel reservations confirmed
• Familiar blanket, toy, or bedding for comfort
• Waste bags, cleaning wipes, and any accident-cleanup supplies
• A travel plan with mapped rest stops and feeding/bathroom times
• Emergency veterinarian contacts for your destination

As you make your holiday plans, a little preparation can make all the difference in keeping your pet safe, calm, and comfortable throughout the journey. With thoughtful planning, the right supplies, and an awareness of your pet’s needs, you can ensure they enjoy the festivities just as much as the rest of the family.

From our team at For Pet’s Sake, we wish you safe travels, happy celebrations, and a wonderful holiday season with your four-legged companions. Learn more at drdevonsmith.com.