Traveling for the Holidays With Your Dog: Safety, Comfort & Sanity Tips
- ridewithmarshmello
- Nov 6, 2025
- 4 min read
Holiday travel can be hectic enough without a wagging passenger in the back seat—but for many of us, leaving our dogs behind isn’t an option. Whether you’re driving across town for Thanksgiving dinner or road-tripping to see family, a little prep can make the journey safer and less stressful for everyone.
Here’s what the experts—and Marshmallow—recommend for holiday travel with your dog.
1. Buckle Up: Use Crash-Tested Gear
Loose pets are a leading cause of distraction and injury in vehicles. The Center for Pet Safety (CPS) warns that standard walking harnesses aren’t built for car travel and can fail under sudden force.
Choose a CPS-certified car harness or travel carrier designed for small dogs. These products are crash-tested to distribute impact safely and prevent your dog from being thrown forward in a collision.
Why: One of the only harnesses to pass Center for Pet Safety crash testing.
Ideal for: Small and medium dogs under 45 lbs.
Key Features:
Certified by CPS
Three-point seat-belt design for stability
Padded vest-style harness distributes force evenly
2. Pack a Dog Travel Bag
Just like you pack for yourself, your dog needs essentials too. Create a travel bag that includes:
Food and water for the entire trip
Collapsible bowls
Leash and harness
Waste bags
Medications or supplements
Vaccination records (especially for interstate or air travel)
A dedicated dog travel bag keeps everything organized and easy to grab when you’re juggling luggage, snacks, and maybe a pumpkin pie.
3. Plan for Comfort and Calm
Long drives mean more than just a safe setup—you also need a comfortable one. Bring familiar items to help your dog settle, like a blanket that smells like home or a favorite toy.
Fear Free Pets notes that scent and routine can lower stress and travel anxiety in dogs. If your pup gets motion sick, ask your vet about safe medications or natural calming chews.
Why: A trusted choice among dog owners for easing stress, separation anxiety, and travel jitters — made with natural, vet-recommended ingredients that support calm behavior without sedation.
Ideal for: Dogs who get anxious during travel, vet visits, fireworks, or changes in routine.
Key Features:
Contains L-Theanine, Thiamine, and Organic Chamomile to promote relaxation
Includes Hemp Seed and Melatonin for gentle mood balance
Soft chew formula dogs love — no need to hide in food
Available in multiple sizes for small to large breeds
Why: A gentle, full-coverage wrap that helps reduce anxiety and promote calm through light compression — perfect for dogs who find comfort in feeling secure.
Ideal for: Dogs with anxiety from storms, travel, or separation who benefit from the soothing effect of a snug, soft garment.
Key Features:
Soft, breathable fabric provides gentle, even pressure to ease stress
Adjustable fit ensures comfort for both small and large breeds
Reflective strips for added safety during nighttime walks
Full-body coverage helps dogs feel secure and relaxed
Easy to put on and remove, making it ideal for daily use or stressful events
Why: A cozy, ultra-soft blanket that keeps your dog warm while protecting furniture, car seats, and beds from fur and messes — ideal for comfort at home or on the go.
Ideal for: Dogs who love to snuggle, nap in the car, or need extra warmth during cold months.
Key Features:
Plush, Sherpa-lined fleece for maximum softness and warmth
Water-resistant outer layer protects against spills and accidents
Machine washable for easy cleaning and everyday use
Lightweight and travel-friendly, perfect for crates, couches, or road trips
Available in multiple sizes and colors to match any home or car interior
4. Keep a Routine on the Road
Holiday travel can throw off everyone’s schedule—including your dog’s. Maintaining regular mealtimes, potty breaks, and walks helps reduce stress and keeps digestion steady. The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) recommends stopping every 2–3 hours during long drives for short breaks.
5. Plan for Holiday Hazards
Once you arrive, new environments bring new risks—especially around food and décor. The AVMA warns that foods like onions, stuffing, chocolate, and cooked bones can be toxic to dogs. Keep your pup away from unattended plates, lit candles, and string lights.
Set up a quiet area with their bed or crate so they have a safe place to retreat when the festivities get loud.
6. Be Patient and Present Traveling for the Holidays With Your Dog
The holidays are busy, but for your dog, you’re home base. Be patient with bathroom breaks, overstimulation, and restless energy. Every trip is an adventure for them—even if it’s just to Grandma’s house.
For Marshmallow, travel means extra cuddle time, snack stops, and an endless stream of new smells. It’s chaos and comfort all at once—and that’s what makes it special.
Final Takeaway
Traveling for the holidays with your dog doesn’t have to be stressful. With the right prep, certified safety gear, and a calm mindset, every mile can be part of the adventure.
Because no matter where you’re headed, it’s not really the holidays until your best friend’s along for the ride.
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