The holidays mean road trips to see family, crowded homes, and long days away. Bringing your dog or cat along can be wonderful, but only if you plan for safety and comfort. Here is how to get your pet there and back without stress.
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This article is general information, not veterinary advice. Talk with your vet before a long trip, especially if your pet is older, has health problems, or gets very anxious or carsick.
First, Decide Whether Your Pet Should Come
Some pets love car rides. Others are miserable from the moment the engine starts. A very anxious, elderly, or sick pet may be happier at home with a trusted pet sitter or at a good boarding facility. Book early, because holiday spots fill up fast.
Before You Leave
- Visit the vet if your pet is due for vaccines, needs a refill on medication, or gets carsick. Ask about anti-nausea options rather than guessing
- Update ID. Make sure the microchip registry has your cell phone number, and add a tag with that number too
- Bring records. Keep a copy of vaccination records and your vet’s number on your phone
- Check the destination. Confirm hotels are pet friendly and ask your hosts about other pets, small children, and house rules
- Practice short drives in the weeks before the trip so the car is not a scary surprise
Car Safety for Dogs
A loose dog in a car can distract the driver and can be badly hurt in a sudden stop. Keep your dog secured every time.
Use a Crash-Tested Harness or a Secured Crate
- A crash-tested car harness that clips into the seat belt keeps your dog in place. Look for products tested by an independent group such as the Center for Pet Safety
- A sturdy travel crate strapped down in the cargo area is another safe choice. Make it comfortable with a Bedsure ComfyFleece Dog Crate Mat or a Bedsure Washable Dog Crate Pad
- Never attach a car restraint to a collar. Always use a harness
Keep Dogs Out of the Front Seat
Front airbags can seriously injure a dog. The back seat or cargo area is safer. Also resist letting your dog ride with its head out the window, where debris can hurt eyes and ears.
Protect Your Seats
A waterproof seat cover or a Bedsure ComfyFleece Waterproof Pet Blanket catches hair, mud, and accidents.
Car Safety for Cats
- Always travel with your cat in a secure carrier, never loose in the car
- Buckle the carrier into the back seat with the seat belt, or wedge it securely on the floor behind a front seat
- Put a familiar blanket or a worn T-shirt inside so it smells like home
- Leave the carrier out at home for a few weeks before the trip so your cat gets used to it
- For long drives, a disposable or travel litter box lets you offer a bathroom break in the car during stops, with doors closed
What to Pack
- Your pet’s regular food, plus a few extra days’ worth in case of delays. Sudden food changes can upset stomachs
- Water and a collapsible travel bowl
- Medications, in their original containers
- Leash, harness, and a backup leash
- Waste bags, paper towels, and an enzyme cleaner for accidents
- A familiar bed or blanket and a favorite toy
- Treats and a long-lasting chew for downtime
- A copy of vaccination records and your vet’s phone number
On the Road
- Feed a light meal a few hours before leaving, not right before, to reduce carsickness
- Stop every two to three hours for water, a short walk, and a bathroom break
- Always leash your dog before opening the car door, even at quiet rest stops
- Never leave your pet alone in a parked car. Cars heat up fast in warm weather and get dangerously cold in winter
- Keep the car at a comfortable temperature and avoid loud music
Flying With Pets
Every airline has its own rules for pets, carrier sizes, and fees, and many limit the number of pets per flight. Call the airline well ahead of time, ask whether a health certificate from your vet is needed, and choose direct flights when you can. Small pets that fit in an airline-approved carrier under the seat usually have the easiest trip. Flying in the cargo hold is riskier, especially for flat-faced breeds, so talk with your vet before choosing that option.
Settling In at Your Destination
- Set up a quiet room with your pet’s bed, water, and litter box or potty spot right away
- Check for escape routes. Busy homes mean doors opening constantly
- Keep holiday foods out of reach. See our guide to Thanksgiving foods that are dangerous for dogs and cats
- Ask guests, especially children, not to feed your pet table scraps
- Keep your pet’s normal routine for meals, walks, and sleep as much as you can
- Supervise meetings with other pets, and give everyone their own space and food bowls
Helping Anxious Travelers
If your pet gets nervous in the car or in a busy house, a familiar bed, a pressure wrap, or a calming pheromone spray may help. See our guide to calming products for anxious dogs. Never give your pet human sedatives or sleep aids. If anxiety is severe, ask your vet about options well before the trip.
Holiday Travel Checklist
- Vet visit and medication refills
- Microchip and ID tag updated with your cell number
- Vaccination records saved on your phone
- Crash-tested harness or secured crate or carrier
- Seat cover or waterproof blanket
- Food, water, bowls, and treats
- Leash, waste bags, and cleaning supplies
- Familiar bed, blanket, and toys
- Pet-friendly hotel and host plans confirmed
- Emergency vet near your destination saved in your phone
With a little preparation, holiday travel can be safe and even fun for your pet. For more help, see our essential dog supplies and essential cat supplies checklists, and our list of Thanksgiving foods that are dangerous for dogs and cats.
Got a question about your pet? Bring it to our Facebook group, Pet Supplies Where, where dog, cat, and small pet owners share practical, no-nonsense advice: https://www.facebook.com/groups/petsupplieswhere
