The holidays are supposed to be joyful, but for dog parents, one question can quietly steal the cheer: Do we bring the dog or leave them home? It sounds simple, yet this decision can spiral into stress, guilt, and unexpected expenses faster than you can say “packing list.”
Sometimes you get lucky, and your pup can join the festivities. Other times, travel logistics, family dynamics, or your dog’s personality make staying home the smarter option. The tricky part? Both choices can go very right or very wrong, depending on how you handle them. I’ve learned this firsthand with my rescue dog, Henry.
After navigating both scenarios (and a few costly lessons), I discovered there are ways to make holiday travel and stay-home plans calmer, safer, and far more budget-friendly. In this article, you’ll learn how to decide what’s best for your dog, how to prepare for either option, and how to avoid the most common holiday mistakes dog parents make, so everyone enjoys the season, including your wallet.
Budget tip:
Traveling with your dog means not paying for a pet sitter, dog walker, or kennel. But if you need to leave your dog at home, doing it in a safe manner, means no unexpected pricey vet bills. That can be a big holiday win-win-win for you, your dog, and your wallet!
Traveling With Your Dog during the Holidays
I always think safety first. Taking your dog with you can add to the fun, memories, and help reduce your stress. Dogs are great for reducing stress, which can be a very appreciated asset during the holiday. Also, when you travel with your dog, you don’t have to pay for a dog walker, pet sitter, or kennel.
Here’s how to safely travel with your dog during the holiday season.
Car travel – Make sure your pup is safely contained in your vehicle with a safety belt, harness, or use a secured crate. Don’t forget to stop for potty, walk, and water breaks. Make sure there are leashed dogs so there aren’t any injuries. Henry always reminds me when it’s time for a break. Also, don’t leave your dog unattended in a car. It can cause anxiety in your dog or encourage someone to steal your pup.
Flying with dogs – Check with your airline to ensure that your dog is allowed in the cabin, or what you need to do to make sure your dog is safe. If your pup isn’t allowed in the cabin, then you may want to consider a pet sitter, dog walker, or kennel boarding so your buddy doesn’t go through any unnecessary stress amongst all the baggage and noises in the belly of the plane.
Dog holiday bag – Don’t forget to pack your dog’s food, meds, toys, bedding, ID tags, and vet records.
Pet-friendly places are the best – Book pet-friendly hotels, activities, adventures, and look at a nearby dog park before you finalize your vacation. If you’re staying in someone’s home or an Airbnb, you’ll want to make sure it’s dog-friendly and your furry friend will be welcome. Also, being respectful of the home you visit makes the stay easier for your dog, you, and your host.
Dog Holiday Hack: Before leaving, check out the local vets just in case, and look for dog-friendly activities to do on your festive pet holiday, like a dog park or walking tours. Don’t forget your dog will need a bedtime potty break. So, staying where you can easily take your dog out to pee is essential.
Dog Holiday Care When You Can’t Bring Your Pup
Even though we’d always like to take our pups with us, sometimes it’s simply not possible. In these cases, make it as stress-free as possible for you and your buddy.
Boarding – Ask your vet, groomer, dog walker, and friends for great kennel options, and then research those facilities. Visit the site in person. When you find a site you like, book early since holidays can mean facilities fill up quickly.
Pet sitters – Again, ask for a referral and interview the pet sitter. The benefit of a pet sitter is that they provide care for your buddy at home, which can mean less stress for your pup.
Friends or family – If you are able to leave your pup with a family member or friend, make sure your buddy is comfortable with them and their home. Or if your pup is staying in your home, then make sure your family or friends know their way around your home.
Pro Dog Tip - Create a dog care binder with your vet contact info, any health issues, feeding schedule, medications, your contact and itinerary, and a list of emergency contacts. This type of binder is useful regardless of who is caring for your buddy.
How does taking my dog with me or leaving my pup at home save me money?
You may not think about your stress level being down when your dog travels with you. My stress level is certainly lower when Henry travels with me. For a moment, consider the following possible expenses.
| Issue | Estimated Cost |
| Pet Sitter 5 days with a daily walk | $200 |
| Dog Walker 5 days with 2x/day 30 minute walk | $300 |
| Dog Boarding 5 days | $150 – $250 |
| Knowing your dog is lovingly cared for by you or someone at home | PRICELESS!!! |
Related articles:
- How to Find a Great Dog Walker
- Make Overnight Dog Vacations Easy
- From an Anxious Dog Car to a Calm Car Ride
- Benefits of a Dog Harness
- Dog Car Seat Belt Essential
- Why Dog Crates Are a Must
- Never Forget Anything on Your Dog Vacation
- New CDC Rules for Dog Travel
- Holiday Dog Hazards to Avoid
Pawsome Festive Holidays Include Dogs!
While taking your buddy on a holiday dog-friendly vacation might be the preferred option, there are times when that’s simply not possible. That means finding someone to care for your dog until you return.
Either way, knowing your dog is safe and well-cared for is priceless! I love traveling with Henry. But I also know that when I must leave him behind, there are safe friends to care for him. That gives me peace of mind and makes my travel, including holiday travel, very merry.
