Posted November 3 2026

A little preparation can make the season more comfortable for every member of your family.

November brings family visits, Thanksgiving gatherings, and holiday getaways. As you organize your plans, there’s another important detail to consider: who will care for your dog or cat?

Whether your furry companion joins the trip or stays home with a trusted caregiver, planning ahead can help make the holidays run more smoothly.

1. Decide Whether Your Pet Should Travel

Some dogs enjoy an adventure, while others find unfamiliar places overwhelming. Cats also have individual preferences, and a busy holiday household may be less comfortable than their familiar surroundings.

Consider your pet’s health, temperament, and experience with travel. Your veterinarian can help you decide whether bringing them along, arranging a sitter, or choosing a boarding facility is the best fit.

For dogs: Think about how they handle car rides, unfamiliar people, and other animals.

For cats: Consider their comfort with a carrier, changes in routine, and unfamiliar environments. A trusted sitter may be a practical option for a cat who finds travel stressful.

2. Prepare Before Departure

Give yourself time to organize records, supplies, and accommodations.

• Confirm that your pet’s identification tags and microchip contact details are current.

• Keep a recent photo of your dog or cat on your phone.

• Review vaccination and travel needs with your veterinarian.

• Check your destination’s entry requirements and any required health documents.

• If flying, confirm the airline’s current pet policies before booking.

Requirements vary by destination and travel method, so check early rather than waiting until departure day.

Booking tip: Ask accommodations specifically whether they welcome cats, dogs, or both. Confirm pet fees, size restrictions, and rules about leaving pets unattended.

3. Pack a Bag for Your Pet

Keep your pet’s essentials together and easy to reach.

For both dogs and cats:

• Their usual food, treats, and drinking water

• Food and water bowls

• Prescribed medications and written instructions

• Familiar bedding and a favorite toy

• Veterinary records and emergency contacts

• Cleanup supplies and spare towels

• An appropriately sized travel carrier or restraint

Add these for dogs:

• A well-fitting harness and leash

• Waste bags

• Supplies for planned walking and bathroom breaks

Add these for cats:

• A portable litter box

• Their usual litter and a scoop

• Litter disposal bags

• Absorbent carrier liners

A familiar blanket or toy can help make the travel carrier more inviting. Let your pet explore the carrier before travel day and practice short trips when possible.

4. Make Road Safety Part of the Plan

Pets should ride securely restrained in the back seat. Use an appropriate carrier, crate, or pet safety harness rather than allowing your dog or cat to roam around the vehicle or sit in your lap.

For dogs, plan stops for water, bathroom breaks, and appropriate exercise. Attach the leash before opening the vehicle door.

For cats, keep the carrier secure while the vehicle is moving. If you need to open it, first park safely and close all vehicle doors and windows to reduce the risk of escape.

Keep your pet with you during stops, and plan ahead for places where animals cannot enter.

5. Help Your Pet Settle In

Before letting your dog or cat explore your destination, prepare a quiet space with familiar belongings.

For dogs: Set up their bed and water bowl, and introduce unfamiliar people or pets gradually.

For cats: Begin with one secure room containing food, water, a litter box, and a comfortable hiding place. Keep the litter box separate from food and water.

Let your pet set the pace. Ask guests to respect their space, and remind everyone to watch exterior doors when arriving or leaving.

6. Arrange Reliable Care for Pets Staying Behind

If your pet stays home, give the sitter clear written instructions. Include:

• Feeding amounts and schedule

• Medication instructions

• Walking or litter box routines

• Your veterinarian’s contact information

• The nearest emergency veterinary hospital

• Your contact details and a backup contact

• Instructions and authorization for obtaining veterinary care

Arrange dependable in-person visits for cats, too. Automatic feeders and water fountains can support a routine, but a caregiver should still check on your cat, clean the litter box, and notice changes in behavior.

For boarding, ask about supervision, vaccination requirements, emergency procedures, and how dogs and cats are housed.

7. Know Where to Turn for Help

Save the contact information for a veterinary hospital near your destination before you leave.

Virtual veterinary care may help with general questions and guidance about next steps, depending on the service and applicable rules. It does not replace hands-on emergency treatment. If your pet has trouble breathing, collapses, or appears seriously ill or injured, seek immediate in-person veterinary care.

More Preparation, More Peace of Mind

The best holiday plan is one that accounts for your pet’s needs as well as your own. Whether your dog joins the family road trip or your cat enjoys familiar comforts at home, thoughtful preparation helps make their care part of the celebration.

At Peppi’s Paws, we know pets are family. Visit PeppisPaws.com to explore pet insurance, care bundles, and resources designed to support your furry family members.

This article provides general educational information. Consult your veterinarian for guidance specific to your pet’s health and travel needs.