A puppy pile of dog information and stories
Every year on January 2nd, pet lovers across the country observe National Pet Travel Safety Day — a reminder that travel season doesn’t just apply to people. Our four-legged family members deserve safe, comfortable journeys whether you’re headed across town or across the country.
National Pet Travel Safety Day was established to bring awareness to the unique risks pets face when traveling and to educate pet owners on how to minimize those risks. The observance was founded by celebrity pet expert Colleen Paige, who wanted a dedicated moment to spotlight the importance of safe travel practices for pets of all kinds — in cars, planes, trains, and beyond.
The timing — just after the holiday travel rush — is intentional, giving families a chance to evaluate how they include pets in future journeys. But the lessons aren’t just for January 2nd; they’re good practice year-round.
Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or a cross-state adventure, preparation is key. Here are essential safety tips to keep in mind for happy, healthy travels with your dog.
Just like humans, pets are safest when restrained. Small dogs should ride in a sturdy, well-ventilated carrier, and larger dogs should wear a pet safety harness or be secured in a crash-tested crate. Proper restraints help prevent injuries in sudden stops and reduce driver distraction.
A dedicated travel kit keeps all your dog’s essentials at hand. Include:
Veterinary organizations recommend preparing this kit well before departure — and always having extra water on hand, especially in hot conditions.
Even a few minutes in a parked vehicle can become dangerous. Cars can heat up rapidly in warm weather (and act like refrigerators in cold weather), posing severe health risks to pets. Always take your dog with you or ensure they remain in a cool, shaded, ventilated space.
Just like people, dogs benefit from regular breaks. Plan stops every 2–3 hours for potty breaks, water, and exercise. Stretching their legs helps reduce stress and keeps digestion on track.
Travel can be stressful for pets who are not accustomed to it. Practice short car rides to acclimate your dog, and bring familiar comfort items — favorite toys, blankets, or even bedding from home can help ease anxiety.
Especially for longer travel or flights, a pre-trip checkup ensures your dog’s health and vaccinations are up to date. Some destinations, particularly international ones, require specific documentation or health certificates before your pet can travel.
Avoid feeding your dog heavy meals right before travel to reduce the risk of motion sickness. Instead, offer lighter meals a few hours before departure and plenty of water throughout the trip.
As much as we love bringing our pups along, not every trip is the right fit for canine travel. Long drives, busy airports, or destinations that aren’t dog-friendly can add unnecessary stress for both you and your dog.
If staying home is the safer or more comfortable choice, leave your pup in the capable, caring hands of Camp Run-A-Mutt. With open play, supervised socialization, plenty of exercise, and familiar routines, Camp feels less like boarding and more like a vacation of their own. While you’re away relaxing or adventuring, your dog will be making friends, burning energy, and enjoying a safe, enriching environment designed just for them.
Because sometimes the best travel decision for your dog… is not traveling at all.
National Pet Travel Safety Day isn’t just an annual observance — it’s a call to action to make every journey with your dog safer and more enjoyable. By planning ahead, using the right gear, and prioritizing comfort, you can help make travel a positive experience for your furry friend.
At Camp Run-A-Mutt, we believe every adventure — big or small — should be safe, enriching, and full of tail wags. Safe travels!
Feel free to use our checklist to prepare!
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