The holiday season is a time for celebration, family, and travel, but if you’re a dog owner, it also means making tough decisions about your furry friend’s care and whether to book a pet sitter or not. Whether you’re driving across the state or flying to another part of the country, traveling with a pet adds another level of planning.
Not only do you need to account for your own needs, but you also must consider how your dog will react to traveling, new surroundings, and disruptions to their routine.
If you’re considering a road trip with your dog, here are some essential tips that can help you plan a pet-friendly journey and anticipate your pup’s needs. And if bringing your dog along isn’t ideal, we’ll also explain why choosing a trusted pet sitter may be the better option.
1. Plan a Pet-Friendly Route
When mapping out your trip, it’s important to factor in your dog’s needs. Plan your route to include regular stops at pet-friendly rest areas or parks where your dog can stretch, relieve themselves, and get a break from the road. Look for highway rest stops with designated dog areas, pet-friendly hiking trails, or even dog parks near major exits.
Planning ahead can reduce the stress on both you and your dog. Always keep essentials on hand such as waste bags, extra leashes, water, and collapsible bowls. Some pet-friendly trip planning websites or apps (like BringFido or AllTrails) can be useful for mapping spots to stop.
2. Take Practice Trips
If your dog is not used to traveling in a car—or if you know they tend to get nervous during car rides—introduce them to it gradually. Start with short drives around the neighborhood, then increase the length of your outings over time. These practice trips will help them associate car rides with positive experiences and reduce anxiety.
Short on time during the busy holiday season? Consider using Paw Pals’ pet taxi service. Our experienced pet sitters can provide your dog with safe, positive riding experiences by transporting them to appointments like vet visits or grooming salons. This exposure can help your dog develop more comfort and familiarity with the car before the big trip.
3. Prioritize Travel Safety
Just like people, dogs need to be kept safe and secure while traveling in a vehicle. If left loose in the backseat, a dog could become a distraction, be injured during sudden stops, or even bolt during exit breaks.
Invest in a safety-rated harness, backseat hammock, or crate that fits securely in your car. For smaller dogs, a booster seat or soft-sided carrier may be appropriate. For larger dogs, a crate in the back of an SUV with a non-slip surface is recommended. Safety should always be a priority, especially on long road trips where conditions can be unpredictable.
4. Tire Your Dog Out Before Hitting the Road
One of the best things you can do before pulling out of the driveway is take your dog for a long walk or play a high-energy game. This helps burn off excess energy and can calm them down for the trip ahead. A well-exercised dog is more likely to rest or sleep during the ride, which benefits both their stress levels and your focus on the road.
5. Take Breaks Every 2–3 Hours
Dogs need regular bathroom breaks, hydration, and exercise when traveling. Plan to stop roughly every 2–3 hours to give your dog a chance to relieve themselves and stretch. Even a short walk around a rest stop can make a significant difference in their comfort.
Use these stops to offer reassurance and calm, especially if your dog shows signs of nervousness. Be generous with praise or treats during breaks—it turns the outing into a positive bonding experience.
6. Pack a Recent Photo of Your Dog
Traveling to new places increases the risk of your dog getting lost. Always pack a recent photo of your pet in case you need to show people or create flyers. Also make sure your dog has a secure ID tag on their collar and that the microchip information is current.
Better safe than sorry—having backup identification and documentation can help reunite you with your dog faster in case of an emergency.
7. Consider Hiring an Overnight Pet Sitter
While bringing your dog along can be fun and rewarding, it’s not always the best option. Lengthy car rides, unfamiliar homes, and busy gatherings can overwhelm pets. If your dog tends to become anxious or uncomfortable in new environments—or if you’ll be distracted or unavailable to care for them properly during your trip—staying home might be the most compassionate choice.
Hiring a professional overnight pet sitter is a great way to keep your dog safe, comfortable, and well-cared for during the holidays. Here are a few options you’ll have:
- Daytime visits: A sitter stops by multiple times per day to feed, walk, and socialize with your dog.
- In-home overnight care: A sitter stays overnight at your home, giving your dog round-the-clock care in their familiar environment.
- Boarding with a sitter: Your dog stays at the sitter’s home and receives dedicated attention in a comfortable setting.
An overnight pet sitter can tailor the care to meet your dog’s specific needs and routine, reducing stress and giving you peace of mind while you’re away. This is especially valuable during the holiday season when your dog may be more affected by changes in schedule or environment.
Which Option is Right for You?
Whether you decide to take your dog with you or hire a sitter, the most important thing is doing what’s best for their health, happiness, and safety.
If your holidays are laid-back and your dog is an experienced traveler, a well-planned road trip could be a great adventure. But if travel is challenging, or you’ll be visiting busy homes, hotels, or unpredictable environments, a trusted overnight pet sitter might be the better path for a joyful, low-stress holiday for both you and your pet.
Book Northern Virginia’s Most Trusted Dog Sitters
The holidays are one of the busiest times for pet sitting services. If you’re planning to travel this season, don’t wait—book your pet care with Paw Pals Pet Sitting today. We offer in-home overnight sitting, customizable care options, and experienced professionals who treat your pet like family.
Contact us to learn more or schedule a free consultation. Let us help you enjoy a stress-free holiday knowing your dog is safe, happy, and loved at home.
