Bringing Your Dog to the Holiday Festivities

little girl and dog in christmas outfits by the tree

The holidays are a time for family, friends, and fun — so why wouldn't you want your furry friend to tag along all season?! Whether traveling to Grandma's house or heading to countless parties around the neighborhood, it's important to think about how to prepare your dog for the excitement.

Here are some tips to make sure both you and your pup have a stress-free holiday season:

1. Communicate with your host.

If you're traveling to someone's home, be sure to let them know in advance that you'll be bringing your dog along. This gives them time to adjust their expectations and prepare any necessary accommodations (like keeping the trash can out of reach!).

If your host has allergies or a lack of space for your pup, advance notice will allow them to express these concerns so you can make other arrangements. Remember, Camp Bow Wow's doors are open!

2. Keep a close eye on your pup.

The holidays can be overwhelming for dogs, with all the new sights, smells, and people around. Be sure to keep a close eye on them at all times and provide a safe space for them to retreat if they need some time to decompress. A quiet room or crate with their favorite toy can help them feel more comfortable in a chaotic environment.

3. Bring along the necessary items.

Remember to pack your dog's food, water, bowl, leash, and any other essential items they'll need while away from home. If you're traveling by car, make sure to take plenty of breaks so they can stretch their legs and relieve themselves. And if you're flying, be aware of the airline's restrictions on bringing pets onboard.

4. Consider bringing your pup to Camp!

If you're really worried about how your dog will handle the holiday hustle and bustle, or if your host is unable to accommodate them, consider dropping your pup off at Camp Bow Wow! Our Counselors will make sure they get plenty of exercise, socialization, and love while you're away.

You can always relax knowing your furry friend is in good hands at Camp Bow Wow! Contact your local Camp to discuss your holiday plans today.

We hope these tips help make your holiday travels a little easier — and a lot more fun! From all of us at Camp Bow Wow, Happy Howlidays!