Travelling at Christmas feels different from any other time of year. The roads are lined with frosted trees, lights sparkle in windows, and there’s a sense of anticipation in the air.
It’s a season full of family and connection, and for many of us, that includes our four-legged family members. Their presence makes the journey complete with the jingling of tags in the back seat, the deep sigh as they settle in, and that familiar face peeking over the seat at every rest stop.
When we bring them along, the holidays become richer.
Most Christmas adventures begin in the car, and the way we start can shape the whole journey. Before you buckle in and turn up the tunes, you’ll want to give your dog time to burn off energy, as this helps them relax and settle in. A bit of activity and a chance to potty before loading up the vehicle makes the start of the trip smoother and more comfortable for everyone.
As you load up the car with presents, cookies, overnight bags, and maybe a snow shovel – make room for a safe travel setup. A harness, doggy seatbelt, or secure crate keeps them protected if there are sudden stops. It’s a small effort that brings a big sense of peace, knowing your furry co-pilot is secure and comfortable.
A big meal before leaving isn’t ideal, so keep breakfast light and save treats for rest stops.
These breaks every few hours are great for everyone. A chance to stretch, and a few minutes of sniffing help keep dogs relaxed and happy. Then it’s back in the car, and more often than not, they nap peacefully while the world rolls by outside the window.
Eventually, the road gives way to arrival. A family home filled with decorations, a cozy cabin in the woods, or a pet-friendly hotel glowing with holiday lights. Every place has its own energy, and dogs feel that immediately.
Before diving into socializing or unpacking, give your dog a moment to explore. Letting them sniff and discover their food and bedding will help reduce anxiety. Some guardians bring a familiar blanket and favourite toys, which add a sense of comfort.
Christmas gatherings often bring excitement – and sometimes chaos. Relatives want to say hello, children run around, and delicious smells float from the kitchen.
Some dogs are thrilled by the attention, eager to be part of every moment. Others would rather observe from a quiet corner.
Both are perfectly normal. If they need space, advocate gently, “She just needs a little time, please let her come to you.”
A quiet room with a bed and a chew toy can be a peaceful retreat, much like a guest bedroom for tired humans.
Even during holiday travel, small routines make a big difference. Regular meals, potty breaks, and an evening walk in snowflakes, give your dog structure in a busy environment. The predictability helps them settle and prevents overstimulation.
Ending the day with something familiar, such as a cuddle on the couch or a quiet moment before bed, reassures them that even though the surroundings are new, they are safe with you.
When the day winds down and the lights glow softly, sharing the holiday with a dog brings a special kind of warmth. They curl up beside us, sigh contentedly, and remind us that Christmas isn’t just about where we go – it’s about who we are with.
Travelling with our furry family members takes planning, but the laughter, companionship, and shared memories make every kilometre better together.
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