The holiday season is one of the busiest times of year for travel, and that includes pets. Families head home, snowbirds go south and people move before the new year. Here's how to make holiday pet travel go smoothly.
Book early
Pet transporters, boarding facilities and pet-friendly hotels fill up quickly in December. If you know your dates, book several weeks ahead.
Border lineups
Canada–U.S. border crossings can have long waits around holidays, especially on weekends and at busy crossings. Build in extra time, and check official border wait times before you leave. Make sure all your pet's documents are ready so there are no delays once you reach the booth.
Winter weather
Holiday travel often means snow and ice. Plan flexible dates if possible, pack extra supplies for delays, and read our winter pet transport guide.
Holiday hazards at your destination
Once your pet arrives somewhere new, watch out for:
- Chocolate, xylitol (in sugar-free sweets and baking), grapes and raisins, onions and garlic, all toxic to dogs and some other pets.
- Fatty table scraps and cooked bones, which can cause stomach upset or worse.
- Lilies, which are extremely toxic to cats.
- Tinsel and ribbons, which cats and rabbits may swallow.
- Electrical cords from decorations, especially for rabbits and other chewers.
- Candles near curious pets or birds.
- Aerosols, scented candles and non-stick cookware fumes, which can be dangerous for birds.
- Open doors as guests come and go. Holiday gatherings are a common time for pets to escape.
A quiet space
Visiting with a pet? Ask your hosts for a quiet room where your pet can retreat from noise and visitors. New places plus crowds can overwhelm even social pets.
Boarding vs. bringing them along
Sometimes the kindest option is leaving your pet at home with a sitter or in trusted boarding. Other times, your pet is better off with you. Consider your pet's temperament, health and the trip.
Moving over the holidays
If you're relocating in December, arrange your pet's transport first. It's one less thing to worry about during a busy time.
4Paws Movers operates through the holiday season, including evenings and weekends (out-of-hours fees apply; see our pricing page). Request a quote early to secure your dates.
Planning a move with your pet?
4Paws Movers offers dedicated, climate-controlled ground transport across Ontario and cross-border into the U.S., plus airport cargo drop-off. Every fee is published.