Holiday Pet Care: Why Planning Ahead Keeps Tails Wagging and Hearts Happy

The Holidays Begin with Halloween!

Every year, the holiday season sneaks up on us faster than we expect. One minute it’s pumpkins on porches, and the next thing you know, you’re knee-deep in wrapping paper and travel plans. But while you’re checking your gift list twice, there’s one important thing many pet parents forget to plan early—pet care. Whether you’re traveling across the country or hosting the whole family at your house, your furry friend’s comfort and safety should be part of your holiday prep.

That’s where pre-planning makes all the difference. Booking your pet sitter in advance (and thinking through your pet’s needs before the rush hits) ensures your pets stay happy, relaxed, and cared for—no matter how hectic the season gets.

Why Early Booking Matters More Than You Think

Here’s the truth: pet sitters get booked solid during the holidays. Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s are the busiest times of the year for in-home pet care. If you wait until mid-December, it’s almost guaranteed that the best sitters—especially those who specialize in senior or medical pets—will already be full.

Don't let the dates you need be filled up first.

Booking early doesn’t just secure your spot—it also gives you time to build a relationship with your sitter, discuss your pet’s quirks, and make sure everything runs smoothly when you’re away. Think of it like planning your holiday dinner. You wouldn’t wait until the day before Thanksgiving to buy the turkey, right? Your pet’s care deserves that same level of preparation.

At Your Furry Godmothers, we start receiving holiday inquiries as early as October, and by mid-November, most of our prime visit times are spoken for. When you book early, you can relax knowing your furry family is in experienced, loving hands.

Creating a Holiday Pet Plan That Works for You

Before you head out of town—or even if you’re staying home—it helps to think through your pet’s specific needs. Here’s a quick guide to help you prepare:

• Book your sitter early. As soon as you confirm your travel dates, reserve your visits. A professional pet sitter will want to schedule a meet-and-greet to learn about your pet’s routine, feeding habits, and medications.

• Write down the essentials. Leave a clear list of feeding instructions, medication schedules, favorite toys, and contact information for your vet. Include an emergency contact just in case.

• Stock up on supplies. Make sure there’s enough food, litter, waste bags, and medications to last a few extra days—just in case your travel plans change.

• Keep routines consistent. Pets thrive on routine. Try to keep mealtimes, walks, and bedtime as close to normal as possible. If you’re working with Your Furry Godmothers, we make this our top priority to reduce your pet’s stress.

What If You’re Traveling With Your Pet?

Tips for travel with pets

Not everyone leaves their pets behind for the holidays—and that’s perfectly fine! If your pet is joining you on your trip, a little planning goes a long way toward keeping everyone calm and comfortable.

• Visit your vet before you go. Make sure your pet is up to date on vaccinations and travel-ready. If you’re flying, some airlines require a recent health certificate.

• Pack a travel bag for your pet. Include food, water, bowls, medications, a leash, cleanup bags, and a favorite blanket or toy. Familiar smells help pets feel safe in new environments.

• Plan pet-friendly stops. If you’re driving, map out pet-friendly rest areas and hotels ahead of time. Apps like BringFido or GoPetFriendly can help you find spots where your furry buddy is welcome.

• Safety first. Always use a secured crate or seat belt harness for your pet. It’s not just safer—it’s also required by law in many states.

Traveling with your pet can be fun and heartwarming, but it’s a lot less stressful when you’ve packed and planned ahead.

The Hidden Benefits of Booking Early

Planning ahead isn’t just about convenience—it’s about peace of mind. When you know your pet’s care is handled, you can focus on enjoying your family, your travels, and those extra-special moments that make the holidays meaningful.

Plus, many pet sitters (including Your Furry Godmothers) offer priority scheduling or special packages for early bookings. You’ll have the first pick of time slots and can arrange visits that best match your pet’s natural rhythm—especially important for senior or special-needs pets who rely on consistent care.

And let’s not forget the emotional benefit. Pets sense our stress levels. When you’re relaxed and confident that everything’s handled, they pick up on that calm energy, too.

Make This Holiday Stress-Free—for Both of You

The holidays should be joyful, not chaotic. Whether you’re flying across the country or staying close to home, take a few moments now to think about your pet’s comfort and safety. It’s one of the best gifts you can give—to them and to yourself.

If you’re in the Oklahoma City area and haven’t yet booked your holiday pet care, now’s the perfect time! Your Furry Godmothers LLC provides in-home sitting, dog walking, medication administration, and compassionate care for senior or medically fragile pets.

📞 Call or text: (405) 673-3306 🌐 Website: www.yourfurrygodmothers.com 💌 Email: info@yourfurrygodmothers.com

Let us sprinkle a little magic into your pet’s holiday season—with comfort, compassion, and care you can trust.