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 
  life savers 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 prioritize 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.)