There’s something extra special about celebrating the holidays with a wagging tail or a gentle purr nearby. However, holiday travel with pets can feel daunting if you’re not prepared. Every detail from ensuring your pet’s comfort to sticking with a familiar food like Drools can make a big difference in how smoothly the journey goes. Below, I’ve shared lessons learned from my own experiences traveling with dogs and cats during this busy season.

1. Plan Early, Don’t Rush

   Why It Matters

   The holidays are hectic with last-minute shoppers, packed transport systems, and people rushing to see loved ones. Amid all the chaos, a dog or cat who’s never ventured beyond the local park might find it overwhelming.

   • Transportation Logistics: Whether you’re driving, taking a train, or flying, each mode of travel has its own pet-related regulations.
   • Flights: Airlines often limit the number of animals allowed in the cabin. If your pet is small, you might be able to keep them under your seat. Larger dogs typically travel in cargo, which requires additional paperwork and a specific type of crate.
   • Trains: Some train services allow pets in designated compartments, but these can fill up quickly especially around Christmas, New Year, and summer vacations.
   • Long Car Rides: While driving may seem like the easiest option, it depends on whether your pet is comfortable spending long hours in a moving vehicle.
   • Vet Preparations: A quick health check can confirm your pet is fit for travel. It’s also a good time to ensure vaccinations and parasite preventatives are up to date. If your pet tends to get anxious on the road, your vet may recommend mild calming aids.

   Pro Tip: Before making any travel plans, ensure your pet’s vaccinations are up to date. A well-planned vaccination schedule protects them from common illnesses and helps ensure a smooth journey. Check out our guide, “Everything You Need to Know About Vaccines for Dogs in India,” to stay informed.

   Personal Note: One December, I tried to board a train with my dog at the last minute, only to find that the pet-friendly compartment was fully booked. Lesson learned: reserve well in advance to avoid heartbreak or hours of complicated rearrangements.

2. The Pet Travel Essentials

   The Basics You Don’t Want to Forget

   • Carrier or Harness: Consider your pet’s size and comfort level. A small dog or cat might prefer a soft-sided carrier they can curl up in, while a larger dog may need a sturdy crate. Make sure they can stand fully and turn around comfortably.
   • Food and Water: Sticking to the same brand is crucial. A sudden diet change, especially during travel, can upset your pet’s stomach. That’s why I never leave home without a stash of Drools kibble or whichever brand my pet is used to. I also keep a reusable water bottle and a foldable bowl within easy reach.
   • Soothing Items: A blanket or small toy carrying your pet’s scent (or even your own) can help them feel secure in unfamiliar environments. It’s amazing how a single chew toy can ease their stress on a loud train.
   • Vet Documents: In some places, random checks occur especially for rabies vaccination proof. Keep a small folder with essential documents handy.
   • Treats & Wipes: I bring a few small treats to reward calm behaviour especially when stepping onto a noisy plane or meeting new relatives. Pet-safe wipes are also lifesavers for cleaning up accidents or muddy paws at rest stops.

   Note: I once made the mistake of switching to a new or “fancier” pet food mid-journey, thinking I was treating my pup. It led to an upset stomach that disrupted everyone’s plans. Lesson learned: consistency beats novelty.

3. Traveling with Dogs in Different Ways

   Driving

   • Condition Them: If your dog rarely rides in a car, start with short drives around the neighbourhood and gradually increase the trip length.
   • Frequent Stops: Stretch breaks every two to three hours work wonders. Let them sniff around a safe spot, get some fresh air, and stretch their legs to help calm restless pups.
   • Seatbelts Matter: A loose dog in the car isn’t just distracting—it’s dangerous. Seatbelt harnesses or crates keep them secure and prevent sudden leaps onto your lap while driving.

   Train Journeys

   • Reserved Spaces: Some trains designate “pet-friendly” cabins, but these sell out quickly especially around Diwali or Christmas. Book early!
   • Keep Them Close: Other passengers may be uneasy around dogs, so keeping your dog on a leash ensures they respect personal space.
   • Tiny Rewards: I often pack small treats (like a packet of Drools Chicken & Egg oven-baked biscuits) to keep my dog occupied when the train halts and strangers step in or out.

   Flying

   • Cage Dimensions: Each airline has specific crate requirements, from maximum weight limits to ventilation rules. Don’t wait until the night before to check them!
   • Cabin or Cargo: Smaller pets usually have the option to travel in the cabin, which is less stressful. If cargo is the only option, ensure your dog’s crate is extra sturdy and clearly labeled with your contact information.
   • Pre-Flight Exercise: A brisk walk or a short play session before the flight can help your pup nap during the journey. Skipping exercise may leave them restless, causing barking or pawing at the crate in frustration.

4. Keeping It Stress-Free

   How to Calm Nervous Pets

   One thing I’ve noticed: when I’m tense or rushing, my pets pick up on that energy. Taking a few deep breaths before heading out helps me stay calm, which in turn keeps them relaxed.

   • Routines: Even while traveling, I stick to my dog’s usual meal times. Using the same brand of pet food, like Drools, helps maintain digestive stability.
   • Familiar Scents: When staying at a relative’s house, I set up a small corner with my dog’s bed and blanket. It creates a “home away from home,” giving her a safe retreat if visitors or unfamiliar scents become overwhelming.
   • Gentle Desensitization: For highly anxious pets, some owners play sounds of trains, car engines, or airplane rumbles at a low volume a few weeks before travel. Gradually increasing the volume can help desensitize them. This might not be necessary for all pets, but it can be beneficial for sensitive dogs or kittens.

   Arriving & Enjoying the Holiday

   Settling In

   • Give Them a Tour: A short walk around the property or neighbourhood helps your pet get familiar with the environment. New sights and smells become less intimidating.
   • Introduction to Other Pets: If your relatives have a dog, introduce them outside on neutral ground first. This prevents territorial behaviour in shared indoor spaces.
   • Maintain Meal Schedules: It might be a holiday for you, but your pet thrives on routine. Serve meals at their usual times, keep portion sizes consistent, and stick to the same brand they’re used to (like Drools). Too many table scraps can lead to diarrhoea or weight gain—both of which can put a damper on your trip.

   Participate in Festivities

   • Many families love including pets in their holiday photos. Holding a treat or squeaky toy behind the camera can help capture their attention like a pro.
   • If there’s a celebratory dinner, make sure any bones or harmful foods (like chocolate or raisins) are kept out of your pet’s reach.

   Departing

   • Goodbyes can be hectic. I always double-check that I’ve gathered all my pet’s belongings—leash, harness, leftover food, and their beloved toy. A final bathroom break is also a smart move before loading the car or heading to the station.

Conclusion

Taking your pet along for holiday travel can create unforgettable memories. Yes, it requires a bit more planning and patience, but the joy on their face—those excited barks or gentle purrs—makes it all worthwhile. As long as you prepare the necessary travel documents, maintain mealtime consistency with a familiar pet food, and prioritise your pet’s comfort, the journey becomes part of the holiday fun rather than a source of stress. Wishing you and your furry companion happy travels!

(Disclaimer: This article provides general guidance. Always check travel regulations and consult a veterinarian for any specific concerns regarding your pet’s health or temperament.)