Thanksgiving Road Trips With Pets

You know that holiday scramble? The one where you’re rushing to load the car for that Thanksgiving trip you have planned? Between squeezing in the suitcases, double-checking the highway traffic on maps, and packing the kids into a car, adding a pet to the mix can just feel like a recipe for added chaos…but with millions of families hitting the road this November, traveling with your furry companion doesn’t have to add stress to your plate at all.

Whether you’re driving across a state line or to a quiet holiday getaway, a little preparation will go a long way towards a safe, calm, and comfortable trip.

Here’s an ultimate guide for a paws-itively smooth Thanksgiving road trip you can look forward to taking:

• Prep the Vehicle for Safety and Comfort – Before you hit the highway, ensure you set up a dedicated space for your four-legged companion that will keep them safe and out of the driver’s space. Using a ventilated carrier or safety harness to tether your pet can help avoid a dangerous distraction on holiday traffic-filled roads. Usually, their favorite blanket or bed can help provide a familiar scent and soothe car-related anxiety, all while keeping the climate control consistent to ensure they stay comfortable.
• Time Meals to Prevent Motion Sickness – No one wants to discover their pet has an upset stomach in a fast moving car on a busy highway. To keep the nauseous surprises at bay, prepare for travel prior. Feeding your pet three to four hours before departure can help ensure they’ve had time to start digesting their food before hopping into the car. Offering small treats and ice cubes during rest breaks instead of food can help keep their stomachs from being empty, which can cause “bilious vomiting”. Make sure you pack those collapsible dishes for water as well to keep your pet hydrated.
• Build Strategic Rest Stops into Your Route – With holiday traffic comes holiday traffic jams…which leads to longer times on the road than we normally expect to encounter. So, planning ahead with intentional breaks can be incredibly helpful when traffic does halt. Busy highway plazas and gas stations can be overwhelming for our pets. So, finding a quiet rest area or park may help offer some added stress relief. Plus, a 10-minute brisk walk can help stretch their legs and allow them to settle back in when you’re ready to load them up.
• Pack a Dedicated “Go-Bag” – Keeping your pet’s essentials in one easily accessible tote within arm’s reach is highly recommended. Having those calming or nausea prescriptions close can be helpful if they’re needed in a rush. Dog waste bags, collapsible bowls, paper towels, vaccine records (for emergencies or hotel check-ins) are a few items to add to the “go-bag” so you aren’t scrambling through the packed car.

Taking your sweet pet with you is a wonderful way to keep your entire family together for the holiday. With a fair amount of patience, a solid plan, and a comfortable setup you can relax and enjoy the journey as much as you will the destination. Pack the family up, cue the holiday playlist, and get ready for a cozy drive. Here’s to extra snuggles, safe travels, and a truly tail-wagging Thanksgiving!

Want even more ideas to help you travel with your furry family members? Make sure to check out PCS with Pets.

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