Holiday travel can be stressful for dogs — and for humans.
Whether your pup is coming along for the ride or staying with a sitter, preparation makes all the difference. With the right planning, you can keep stress low, safety high, and ensure your dog feels secure no matter where the holidays take you.

Crate & Car Conditioning: Make Travel a Positive Experience

Successful travel starts long before you pull out of the driveway.

🚗 Build Car Confidence

Many dogs experience stress in the car due to motion discomfort, unpredictable stops, or past negative associations.
Begin conditioning early:

• Start with short, fun trips.
• Pair the car with rewards, chews, or special toys.
• Ensure proper ventilation and temperature control.

Dogs should always be secured — either in a crash-tested crate, a seatbelt harness, or a secured booster for small dogs.

🪺 Crate Conditioning for Smooth Transitions

If your dog will sleep in a crate during travel or boarding:

• Practice crate sessions daily.
• Add blankets or toys that smell like home.
• Use calming enrichment (lick mats, stuffed Kongs) to associate the crate with relaxation.

A comfortable, confident dog travels safer — and quieter!

Packing Essentials: Bring Familiar Comforts

Dogs thrive on routine and predictability. Packing intentionally can prevent stress behaviors during travel.

Essential Travel Kit:

• Food + extra servings (holiday delays happen!)
• Water + collapsible bowls
• Medications + supplements
• Comfort items (favorite blanket, stuffed toy, familiar bedding)
• Leash, long line, harness
• Waste bags
• Vaccination records and ID tags
• A calming chew or enrichment item

Familiar smells and textures help your dog settle into new environments quickly.

Boarding & Sitters: Choosing Welfare-Focused Care

If your dog isn’t traveling with you, choosing the right care provider is crucial.

Questions to Ask Your Boarding Facility or Sitter:

• What is the staff-to-dog ratio?
• How often do dogs get potty breaks and enrichment?
• What safety protocols are in place?
• Are staff trained in dog body language and fear-free handling?
• Will your dog’s routine be maintained?
• Can you bring personal items from home?

Look for welfare-focused providers — people who understand canine needs beyond food and shelter. Your dog’s mental and emotional well-being should be just as important as the basics.

Routine Maintenance: Keep Your Dog’s Rhythm Steady

Travel disrupts normal schedules, but keeping key routines stable helps reduce stress.

• Maintain feeding times as closely as possible.
• Prioritize predictable potty breaks.
• Offer daily enrichment (sniff walks, puzzles, lick mats).
• Build in quiet downtime to help your dog decompress.

If traveling across time zones, gradually shift feeding and potty times a few days before departure.

Holiday travel doesn’t have to feel overwhelming.
Plan ahead, pack smart, and prioritize your dog’s comfort for a smooth and stress-free season.

✨ Ready to travel stress-free?

Click here to schedule a session to build a personalized travel plan for your dog.