The holiday season often means heading out on adventures — and for many pet parents, that includes deciding whether to bring your furry companion along or ensure they’re cared for at home. Whichever route you choose, preparation is the key to keeping your pet healthy, calm, and happy.
If you’re hitting the road, safety comes first. Pets should be secured either in a well-ventilated crate or a seat belt harness. Letting them roam freely is fun, but it’s risky in the event of an accident and can distract the driver.
Feed a light meal a few hours before you leave to help avoid motion sickness, and pack a small “travel kit” with food, bottled water, bowls, a leash, waste bags, and any supplements or medications. Plan to stop every couple of hours so everyone can stretch their legs and take a quick break.
For pets who get anxious or carsick, there are natural ways to help. Calming aids like Super Snout’s Chill Out, Austin and Kat’s No More Wiggles and CBD pet products can take the edge off without making your pet groggy. Our team can help you choose one for your dog or cat.
Air travel can be tricky — and while most airlines allow small pets in-cabin, we don’t recommend cargo travel. The temperature changes, noise, and handling conditions in cargo holds can be stressful and even dangerous for pets.
When flying, we recommend booking a direct flight if possible and check your airline’s pet policy prior to booking. Make sure your carrier meets size requirements and allows your pet to stand, turn, and lie down comfortably. Keep your leash handy to easily remove your pet at the airport security checkpoint, so that the carrier can go through the X-ray machine. Attach clear ID tags, your contact info, and feeding instructions right to the carrier. Including a toy or chew treat in their carrier may help your pet remain engaged and less stressed about travel.
If your pet stays home, you have the option of using a boarding facility or having a pet sitter stay at your home.
For many pets, staying home with a sitter is the happiest and least stressful option. When vetting pet sitters, look for someone experienced in your type of pet, has a pet first aid and CPR certification, can administer medication, has transportation available for your pet, and has a calming demeanor. Always check references and schedule a meet-and-greet so your pet can get to know them ahead of time.
Leave written instructions about feeding schedules, supplements, routines, and your vet’s contact info. Keeping things as familiar as possible helps pets stay calm while you’re away.
If boarding is the best option for your pet, take time to choose a facility that values safety, cleanliness, and attentive care. A good boarding center will follow your pet’s regular feeding and supplement schedule, provide daily enrichment and interaction, and keep you informed during their stay. Ask how often pets are checked on, walked, and socialized - and for dogs, whether playgroups are supervised and matched for compatibility. Touring the facility beforehand and asking questions helps ensure your pet feels comfortable and well cared for while you’re away.
Whether your pet joins your travels or stays home, consistency is key. Stick with their usual schedules, and give them extra time to adjust when routines change.
Stop by your local The Holistic Pet Nutrition Center before your trip — we’ll help you find the right food, especially if needing a room-temperature alternative to frozen/raw, calming aids, and travel essentials to keep your pet safe and happy wherever the holidays take you. If it is a product we don’t keep stocked in our stores, we can special order items like soft-sided carriers, pet strollers, and back-pack carriers. Just ask, we’re happy to help!
