According to the dog walking network Rover, 37% of dog owners skipped vacations to stay with their dog. Beyond that, 10% have hidden their dog in their luggage to sneak them into a hotel, and 3% tried to disguise their dog as a baby when boarding a plane (seriously!).

However, it doesn’t have to be difficult. With a little planning, travelling with pets this holiday season can be a breeze.

Travelling with dogs may have you begging for help

You have all the same options, but more restrictions. So mapping out exactly where you’re headed and how you get there makes sure your dogs don’t become anxious, and in turn, you.

Travelling by Airplane

According to the AKC, a crate is required:

-         Large enough to allow the dog to stand, turn, and lie down.

-         Strong, with handles and grips, and free of interior protrusions.

-         Leak-proof bottom covered with absorbent material.

-         Ventilation on opposing sides, with exterior rims or knobs to prevent blocked airflow

-         “Live Animal” label, arrows showing upright position, with owner contact info

-         Stock the crate with a comfortable mat, your dog’s favorite toy, and a water bottle

Next, a vet visit required, and you’ll need to have certifications to the airline 10 days ahead, as well as the dog must be weaned and over 8 weeks old.

Airlines take no responsibility for your dog’s health, or its ability to fly. That rests on you. For that reason, check with your vet about whether your dog should be tranquilized prior to flying.

Another solution is CBD, which can help calm their nerves. And can be quite a bit cheaper and faster.

Travelling by Car

Dogs aren’t naturally comfortable with car travel and get anxious. So definitely test it out before making the trek. Dog showing trouble signs? CBD has also been known to help with car travel as well.

A few more tips about traveling, and treating any dog anxiety that may arise.

-         Dogs should travel on an empty stomach to avoid car sickness. But bring lots of water

-         Crack the windows

-         Don’t put your dog in the bed of a truck - it can be extremely dangerous

-         Make sure the kids don’t taunt or tease the dogs when they get bored, which is inevitable.

-         Bring games and toys for the pets to keep them happy and occupied along the way

-         Plan bathroom breaks

-         Pack plenty of food and water

Like humans, movement is healthy. So, plan for exercise along the way. It helps burn off energy, and prevent panics and anxiousness. Then, make sure to balance of time in versus out of the car or plane.

Lastly, being an advocate for plants over pills, it’s recommend bringing CBD in case of a panic moment.

Wrapping it all up for a beautiful holiday

The holidays should be fun and if not, at least the dogs are there. So take your time, plan ahead, and work patience into the agenda somewhere.