The Joy Of Travelling With Pets
World Tourism Day 2025 is here and this year’s celebrations remind us that travel is not just about destinations but also about the company we keep. While many dream of road trips with friends or family holidays, more people today are choosing to bring their pets along. Travelling with pets is joyful and heartwarming, but it requires extra care to ensure they are comfortable and stress free.
Veterinarian Dr Deepak Saraswat from Zigly explains that long road trips, flights or train journeys can be overwhelming for animals. New environments, strange sounds and long hours of travel often make pets anxious. Yet with thoughtful planning and a few smart tricks, it is possible to make the experience relaxed and enjoyable for both the pet and the owner.
1. Creating A Familiar Environment
The best way to keep pets calm is to surround them with familiar objects. Carrying their favourite blanket, toy or even an item of clothing with your scent can instantly make them feel more secure. The smell and texture provide comfort, creating a sense of home even while travelling.
2. Pre Trip Exercise
Pets often behave better on journeys if they are tired before leaving. A brisk walk for dogs or a playful run for cats helps release their excess energy. Once they are more relaxed physically, they are likely to stay calm and settled during the trip, whether inside a carrier, in a car or on a flight.
3. Carriers Safety And Comfort
Ensuring safety is as important as comfort. Secure carriers and pet harnesses are essential to prevent accidents and to give pets their own safe space. Lining the carrier with soft bedding and leaving it partly open helps create a snug den like environment where they feel protected.
4. Hydration And Snacks On The Go
Just like humans, pets need regular hydration during travel. Carry a water bottle and their usual food or light snacks in small portions. Familiar food reassures them and prevents stomach upsets, while access to water keeps them refreshed. Overfeeding before the trip should be avoided as it can cause nausea.
5. Calming Techniques That Work
Some pets respond well to natural or vet approved calming aids such as sprays, chews or soothing scents like lavender in safe forms. Soft background music or white noise also works wonders in reducing anxiety. Gentle reassurance from the owner and calm body language add to their comfort, turning the trip into a smoother experience.
Making Every Journey Special
Travelling with pets may take extra effort but the joy of having them by your side makes it worthwhile. With small adjustments and a focus on their comfort, pets can enjoy the journey as much as you do. After all, their playful presence can make even the simplest trip feel extraordinary.
Follow Travel Moves on Instagram and Facebook for more pet friendly travel tips, guides and destination ideas that make your journeys more meaningful.
