Pet-Friendly Travel Do’s and Don’ts
Confession time: this post is a few days late. I usually hit publish on Sundays, but the holidays have a way of bending time. If you’re in the midst of catching up with social obligations right now, you already know what I mean.
With holiday travel in full swing, I wanted to share a pet‑friendly travel refresher. Whether your pet is coming along for the adventure or staying with family, sitters, or boarding, a little planning goes a long way in keeping everyone safe, healthy, and a bit more relaxed.
The Holidays Are Not a Free‑For‑All Buffet (At Least, Not for Pets)
I know it’s tempting. I know your family means well and thinks it’s no big deal. Everyone’s snacking, the dog is giving you that look, and Aunt Linda swears “just one bite won’t hurt.” But holiday human food is still a hard no for pets.
Many common holiday foods are toxic to dogs and cats, including chocolate, grapes/raisins, onions, garlic, alcohol, xylitol, and fatty foods that can trigger pancreatitis. If you’re hosting or visiting, it’s worth setting clear boundaries with guests ahead of time.
Be vigilant, know what’s on the table and counters, and reinforce with your family and friends that you’re serious about not feeding the dog, no matter how cute they look.
➡️For an easy reference, here’s a reputable list of foods that are toxic to dogs and cats.
New People, New Places, Big Feelings
Holidays often mean unfamiliar environments, lots of noise, and new people. It can also sometimes mean young kids, non-pet owning adults, or neurodivergent people who may not understand or recognize stress signals.
Watch for signs your pet is overwhelmed:
Lip licking, yawning, or turning away
Whale eye (showing the whites of their eyes)
Hiding, trembling, or excessive panting
Growling or snapping
If your pet is showing stress, it’s okay (and responsible) to limit interactions, especially with children. Quiet spaces, baby gates, crates, or closed rooms can be a gift, not a punishment.
Pro Tip - do NOT discipline your pet for growling. This is their way of communicating that they are not comfortable. Remove them from the situation and give them a quiet, safe place to chill out. They’re not giving you a hard time; they are having a hard time.
Traveling With Pets: The Non‑Negotiables
If your pet is traveling with you, here are the essentials I never recommend skipping:
Know Where the Emergency Vet Is
Before you leave, look up emergency and after‑hours veterinary clinics at your destination. Save the address and phone number in your phone — because no one wants to Google that information in a panic at 2 a.m.
Bring Their Normal Food
Sudden diet changes are a fast track to GI upset. Pack enough of your pet’s regular food for the entire trip (plus a little extra, just in case).
Medications & Prescriptions
Bring all routine medications, supplements, and prescriptions your pet normally takes.
If your pet has sedatives or anti‑nausea medications:
Test them at home before traveling so you know how your pet responds in a controlled environment.
Never try a new medication for the first time mid‑trip.
Refills Matter
If your pet needs refills, call your vet well in advance, especially around holidays or weekends when clinics may be closed or running limited hours.
Honestly, this is just good advice regardless of whether or not you’re traveling. Don’t be that person who calls at the last minute.
Records, Vaccines, and Air Travel Reality Checks
Make sure your pet is up to date on vaccinations.
Bring copies (digital or printed) of health records, especially if traveling out of state.
If flying, double‑check airline requirements well ahead of time.
And a note I personally feel strongly about: I generally don’t advise flying pets unless they’re small enough to stay in the cabin. Cargo travel carries real risks, and in many cases, alternative arrangements are safer and kinder.
Comfort Goes a Long Way
Long car rides (and busy houses) can be exhausting for pets.
Helpful items to pack:
Favorite toys or chews
Puzzle feeders or enrichment activities
Familiar bedding or blankets that smell like home
Mental stimulation and comfort can make a huge difference after hours of travel.
Safety First, Always
Pets should be microchipped and registered with current contact information.
Use leashes, harnesses, or secure carriers at all times.
Never assume a new environment is escape‑proof. Even the most reliable pets can bolt when overstimulated. A fenced yard that you’re not familiar with may have weak spots, missing sections, or a fence height that is just a liiiiiittle too tempting for your dog to try to leap over. Bring a long outdoor lead if there’s any question.
When Staying Home Is the Kinder Choice
Traveling together isn’t always the best option; especially for pets who don’t normally travel, are anxious in new environments, or struggle with long car rides or changes in routine. In many cases, leaving them at home can actually be the less stressful (and safer) choice.
If you decide not to bring your pet along, you have several good options:
A trusted friend or family member
A reputable boarding facility
A professional pet-sitting service
Whichever route you choose, do a little homework first. Make sure caregivers are experienced, insured (if applicable), and comfortable handling your pet’s specific needs.
A few things I always recommend:
Set up clear communication expectations ahead of time (daily updates, photos, emergency contact methods).
Leave written instructions for feeding, medications, routines, and veterinary care (and leave enough of it to last the entire time!).
Provide your regular vet’s information and the nearest emergency clinic.
Have a backup plan in place just in case the sitter cancels last-minute or doesn’t show.
Checking in regularly can give you peace of mind and help you actually enjoy your trip knowing your pet is in good hands.
TL;DR — Pet-Friendly Holiday Travel Checklist
Skip human food (holiday foods can be toxic).
Watch stress signals and limit interactions, especially with kids.
Bring normal food, meds, and test sedatives at home first.
Refill prescriptions early - holiday hours fill up fast.
Know the nearest ER vet at your destination.
Pack records, vaccines, and airline requirements if flying.
Avoid flying pets in cargo when possible.
Bring toys, enrichment, and familiar bedding.
Microchip, leash, and secure at all times.
If staying home: choose a reputable sitter/boarding option, set communication expectations, and have a backup plan.
Let’s Be Clear
One important note I don’t want to tiptoe around: pets are a responsibility. We owe it to them to ensure they’re properly cared for while we’re gone. That means more than leaving a big bowl of food and hoping a dog door or a couple extra litter boxes will suffice.
Thoughtful planning, whether they travel with you or stay home, is part of being a good owner.
Final Thoughts
Holiday travel with pets can be incredibly special but it does require a bit of extra intention. Planning ahead, respecting your pet’s limits, and prioritizing safety helps ensure the memories you make are good ones.
Whether your holiday plans involve a road trip, a cozy family visit, or a staycation with extra treats (for humans only), I hope this helps you and your pets move through the season with a little more ease.
As always, if you’re planning pet‑friendly travel and want support finding accommodations or routes that truly work for both of you, I’m happy to help.
Yours in Flight,
Tianna
