The holiday season is all about family, fun, and travel—and for many dog owners, that means including your furry family members in the adventure. More people are choosing to bring their dogs along on holiday trips, whether by car, plane, or other means. However, traveling with pets presents unique challenges, from ensuring their safety and comfort to managing their anxiety.

Let’s dive into Brindleden's top 5 tips to help your pup be just as ready for the journey as you are!

1. Prepare with a Vet Check and Packing Essentials

Beyond the basics of making sure your dog is healthy, check if your destination requires any specific vaccinations or certificates. Some states and countries have strict rules around rabies, leptospirosis, or even flea treatments, so it’s worth double-checking these requirements before you go.

• Pro Tip: Bring printed copies of vaccination records and keep a digital version on your phone. You never know if you’ll need to show proof at hotels or airlines. It's also smart to get your dog microchipped if they aren’t already, as it increases the chance of recovery if they get lost in an unfamiliar area.

  
  

• Packing Essentials Add-On: Invest in collapsible bowls for feeding on-the-go, and if you’re traveling to a colder destination, consider bringing booties or a dog coat to protect your dog from snow, ice, and salt on the ground. If your dog is prone to anxiety, a thunder jacket can provide comfort.

  
  

• Extra Tip: Pack some pet wipes—they're great for cleaning paws after bathroom breaks and for refreshing your dog during travel. You never know when you'll need them!

2. Ensure Car Safety

While many people know about using a seatbelt harness or pet carrier, a lesser-known tip is to gradually acclimate your dog to longer car rides if they aren't used to them. Start with short trips around the neighborhood and work up to longer durations, rewarding calm behavior along the way.

• Pro Tip: Place sunshades on windows to help regulate the car’s temperature, especially if you’re driving long distances in direct sunlight. This prevents the car from heating up too much, making it more comfortable for your dog. Also, consider bringing a portable pet fan, especially for summer travel.

Another important consideration is hydration: dogs can easily become dehydrated during long trips. A spill-proof water bowl is ideal for keeping water available without making a mess in the car.

• Extra Tip: Check your car’s interior temperature at different points during the trip (using a thermometer if needed). Dogs regulate heat differently than humans, so a comfortable temperature for you might be too warm for them.

3. Navigate Air Travel Like a Pro

Air travel requires careful preparation. If your dog is flying cargo, consider flying at night or early morning to avoid hot temperatures, which can make cargo areas dangerous. For brachycephalic (short-nosed) dogs like bulldogs or pugs, flying in cargo can be risky due to their breathing difficulties, so always consult your vet before booking.

• Pro Tip: Acclimate your dog to the carrier well before your flight. Let them spend time in it at home so it feels like a safe space. When it’s time to fly, add an item of clothing that smells like you inside their carrier to provide extra comfort.

In-Flight Treats: Bring long-lasting, low-calorie chews (like yak cheese chews) to keep your dog occupied and calm during the flight. These will keep them entertained without causing stomach upset. Avoid giving your dog a large meal before the flight, as they might feel nauseous during turbulence.

• Don't forget! When flying with your dog, many airlines require a Certificate of Veterinary Inspection (CVI) or health certificate from a licensed veterinarian. This document confirms your dog is healthy, free of contagious diseases, and up-to-date on vaccinations. And timing matters: the health certificate must usually be issued within 10 days of your flight (some airlines allow up to 30 days). Make sure to check your airline's specific timeline.

• Extra Tip: If you’re flying internationally, check whether your dog needs to quarantine upon arrival. Some countries (like Australia or the UK) have strict quarantine rules, even for vaccinated pets.

4. Plan for Dog-Friendly Accommodations

It’s not just about finding a place that allows pets—look for accommodations that go above and beyond with amenities like dog beds, pet welcome kits, or even pet sitting services if you plan to go out without your dog. Some hotels also have dog-friendly happy hours or play areas.

Pro Tip: Always call ahead to double-check the hotel’s pet policies. Some places have weight restrictions or limit the number of dogs you can bring. Expect a pet fee, but find out if it’s charged per stay or per night. There are often rules about leaving dogs alone in hotel rooms, so some travelers choose an Airbnb rental without shared walls for added flexibility.

Also, make sure the accommodation is secure for your dog. Walk through the space upon arrival and check for any escape routes (unfenced areas, open windows) that could lead to an accident.

• Extra Tip: Bring your dog’s food from home to avoid digestive upsets, and feed them at the same times you would at home to maintain their routine.

• Future Tip: when 2025 holiday travel brings you to the Bay Area, visit us at Brindleden!! Stop in for a refreshing beverage and a great place to spend time with friends, family and, of course, your favorite pup.

5. Keep Your Dog Calm During the Trip

Calming your dog during travel goes beyond just bringing familiar items. Consider using pheromone diffusers or sprays (like Adaptil) in your car or the airplane carrier, which mimic natural calming pheromones and can help reduce anxiety.

Pro Tip: Offer natural calming supplements before the trip. Ingredients like chamomile, valerian root, or L-theanine (found in calming treats) can relax your dog without the need for prescription medications.

If you're using music to soothe your dog, research has shown that classical music, reggae, or soft rock tends to reduce stress in dogs more effectively than other genres.

• Extra Tip: For dogs prone to extreme anxiety, consider working with a professional dog trainer or behaviorist months in advance to desensitize them to travel. Gradual exposure to travel scenarios (like getting in the car or spending time in the carrier) can help build their confidence and reduce stress on the actual trip day.

Final Thoughts: Enjoy the Journey

Holiday travel with your dog can be a rewarding experience with the right preparation. By planning ahead and keeping your dog’s needs in mind, you can ensure a stress-free journey for both of you. Whether you’re driving across the country or flying to a far-off destination, your furry friend deserves to be part of the adventure!

What are your favorite travel tips? Feel free to share them in the comments section.

Brindleden wishes you all a safe and fun holiday season!