Thanksgiving is a time for family, food, and festive traditions. While some pet owners prefer boarding, others bring their animal companions along for the ride. Whether you’re heading across town or to another state, traveling with pets during the holidays requires a little extra planning to keep them safe and healthy. As the holidays are upon us, PetNest Animal Hospital is going over the essentials every pet owner should consider before traveling this season.
Tips for Traveling with Pets During Thanksgiving
Consider Your Pet’s Comfort and Temperament
Before making any travel plans, think about how your pet handles change. Some pets love new sights and sounds, while others prefer the comfort of their home. If your pet becomes anxious during car rides around large gatherings, it might be better to explore pet sitting or boarding options instead.
If your pet specifically has issues with motion sickness or severe anxiety during travel, schedule an appointment with the vet to discuss guidance and, if necessary, medication.
Make Sure Vaccinations Are Current
Staying up to date on core pet vaccines is a must for holiday travel, especially if your pet will be around other animals or staying in unfamiliar environments. Many boarding facilities, pet-friendly hotels, and family homes with pets will require proof of rabies, distemper/parvo, and bordetella for dogs and rabies and FVRCP for cats.
An updated vaccine record protects your pet and gives everyone peace of mind during the holidays. If you’re unsure if your pet is current, call up the vet to review their records.
Microchip Your Pet
The holidays can be hectic, and unfamiliar surroundings increase the risk of pets slipping out the door or getting lost. A microchip gives your pet a permanent ID that can’t be removed, lost, or damaged. If your pet is already microchipped, make sure your contact information is up to date in the registry.
It’s a simple step that can make a huge difference if your pet becomes separated from you during your travels.
Pack Smart for the Road
Don’t forget the essentials! Here’s a quick travel checklist for your pet:
- Food and dishes for food/water
- Leash and harness
- Waste bags or litter and tray
- Bedding or crate
- Medications (if applicable)
- Toys or comfort items
- A recent photo of your pet (just in case they get lost)
- A copy of your pet’s vaccine records
Remember, too, keeping your pet’s routine as close to normal as possible during travel can help ease anxiety and prevent digestive issues.
Plan for Frequent Breaks and Safety in the Car
If you’re traveling by car, ensure your pet is secured in a crate, carrier, or safety harness. Never allow your pet to roam freely in a moving vehicle, as that’s dangerous for both of you.
Plan to stop every few hours for potty breaks, water, and a little movement. Never leave your pet alone in a parked car.
Prepare for Unexpected Situations
Despite your best efforts, the unexpected can happen. Research nearby emergency vets along your route or near your destination, just in case your pet needs medical care while away from home. It’s also wise to bring your vet’s contact information with you.
Bonus Tip: Be Careful with Pets Around Thanksgiving Dinner
Not all human food is safe for pets. Check out this article on Thanksgiving food safety for pets from AAHA.
Prepare for Thanksgiving Travel with Pets in Frisco, TX
Holiday travel with pets just takes a little planning. Your pet can enjoy Thanksgiving right alongside you! PetNest Animal Hospital has veterinary care services, like vaccines and microchipping, in Frisco for cats and dogs from Plano, Frisco, Little Elm, The Colony, and nearby Texas areas. If you’re bringing your pet along to Thanksgiving, schedule a wellness check at PetNest Animal Hospital.