Sometimes, you just need a holiday getaway –  but setting up puppy pads in every corner of your house, paying the next door neighbor’s kid to dog-sit, and writing out exhaustive instructions isn’t exactly the most relaxing way to travel. 

Instead, bring your pup along on your next adventure. They’ll love exploring new sights and smells, and you’ll love the peace of knowing that your dog is safe and sound. Not to mention – the best holiday movies all have a puppy in them, don’t they? 

We’ll make your upcoming trip a little bit easier with tips on how to best travel with man’s best friend. 

1. Before you leave, find a reputable vet in your destination. Chances are, you won’t have to use them, but in case something goes wrong…  (Did Fido grab hold of a turkey leg that was a little too big for him? Did Boo make her way into the spiked egg nog?) … you’ll be glad to have a good, reasonably priced vet on deck. Bring along their medical records and IDs. 
2. It’s never a bad idea, anyways, but if you’re leaving for a trip to a new place, and you haven’t microchipped your dog, now might be the time to do it. It’s a painless procedure that can reunite you with your furry sidekick if the adventure ever gets too wild. If microchipping isn’t for you, just make sure they’re wearing a collar with their name and your contact information. 
3. It would be a good idea to get them comfortable in their carrier. Set it down near their favorite spot, and add in a towel or sweatshirt that smells like you and their favorite toys. They’ll grow comfortable before the trip, and feel safer if they’re in a car, plane, or hotel. Dogs are typically safe in cars, but putting them in a crate or car carrier is the safest way to get your pup from Point A to Point B. 
4. If you’re headed to the airport, remember that a lot of people, sounds, and smells can be really overwhelming for them! Take your doggo to a busy, pet-friendly place before your trip to see how they react. 
5. If you’re traveling by car, there’s a good chance your pup will love the beautiful views, sleeping in the sun, and the extra belly rubs they’ll get. If they don’t, however, and they’re anxious, a calming bite would help calm their (and your) nerves. (May we suggest Breedwise Calming Bites?) 
6. When you stop for a gas or restroom break, let your pup out with you! They’ll need to make a bathroom stop and they can get rid of some pent-up energy at a rest stop. It’s also important to remember that it can get really hot inside your car – even with the windows cracked, so let them enjoy the fresh air along with you. 
7. To keep them hydrated and happy, get creative with it. If you get a drink, give them a couple of ice cubes. Or, add low-sodium chicken broth to their water. They’ll love the special travel treat.
8. If you’re staying at a hotel, make sure that it’s pet friendly before you show up at the front desk with your pooch. Then, to avoid any pet mess charges, bring along a stain cleaner (or good, old fashioned baking soda) and even a lint roller if you have an extra furry friend.
9. If you’re staying with friends or family, make sure to give them a call before you show up with your pup so that they’re ready to host you both. This is also good to keep in mind if they have small children or fragile items. (We certainly don’t want to knock over grandpa’s urn or chew on Uncle Mike’s prized action figure collection.) 

Above all, keep in mind why you’re bringing your buddy along in the first place. Dogs make our lives better – so sit back and enjoy the extra fun, extra cozy howl-idays.