Going on holiday should be exciting — but for pet owners, it often comes with a lingering worry: will my pet be safe while I’m away?

Whether you’re travelling interstate, heading overseas, or simply changing your pet’s routine, holidays are one of the most common times for pets to go missing. New environments, unfamiliar carers, and disrupted routines can all increase the risk.

In this guide, we’ll walk through how to keep pets safe while on holiday, with practical tips for dogs and cats, plus what Australian pet owners should know before locking the front door.

Why Pets Are More Likely to Go Missing During Holidays

In Australia, thousands of dogs and cats are reported lost every year — and holidays are a peak risk period. Pets may:

• Escape unfamiliar yards or accommodation

• Slip out when gates are left open by sitters

• Panic due to changes in routine

• Become disoriented in new environments

According to animal welfare groups like RSPCA Australia, identification is the single biggest factor in reuniting lost pets with their owners.

1. Choose the Best Holiday Care Option for Your Pet

🏡 Pet Sitting at Home

For many pets, staying in their own environment is the least stressful option.

Best for:

• Older pets

• Anxious animals

• Pets with medical needs

Holiday pet safety tips:

• Leave written feeding and medication instructions

• Provide emergency vet details

• Share your travel itinerary and contact info

🐾 Boarding Kennels or Catteries

Boarding facilities can work well, but not all are equal.

What to look for:

• Secure fencing and locked enclosures

• Clear vaccination requirements

• Experienced staff

• Trial stays before long holidays

✈️ Travelling With Your Pet

If your pet is joining you, safety becomes even more important.

Before you go:

• Confirm accommodation is pet-friendly and secure

• Pack familiar bedding and toys

• Ensure your pet wears visible ID at all times

2. Update Your Pet’s Identification Before You Travel

One of the most important steps in keeping pets safe while on holiday is making sure they can be identified instantly if found.

Before you leave:

• ✅ Check microchip details are current

• ✅ Ensure your pet wears a secure collar

• ✅ Attach a clearly visible ID tag

• ✅ Use a phone number that will be monitored while you’re away

Many lost pets are found by members of the public — not vets or shelters. Visible ID allows kind strangers to act quickly.

Platforms like PetRescue regularly report that pets with up-to-date identification are far more likely to be reunited with their families.

3. Create a Pet Holiday Emergency Plan

Even with the best preparation, things can go wrong. Having a plan can make all the difference.

Your Pet Emergency Plan should include:

• Recent photos of your pet

• Vet and emergency clinic details

• Medical information and medications

• Authorisation for emergency treatment

• Clear instructions if your pet escapes

Leave a printed copy with your pet sitter or boarding facility.

4. Reduce Anxiety Before You Leave

Pets are highly sensitive to changes — especially when suitcases appear.

To reduce stress:

• Keep feeding and walking routines consistent

• Introduce sitters or boarding environments early

• Leave familiar items with your scent

• Avoid sudden changes just before departure

Calmer pets are less likely to panic or try to escape.

5. Do a Final Holiday Safety Check

Before heading off:

• 🔒 Check fences, gates, and locks

• 🐕 Make sure collars fit securely

• 📱 Confirm your sitter has all contact details

• 🦴 Leave spare leads, harnesses, and food

That final check could prevent your pet becoming lost while you’re away.

Peace of Mind for You — Safety for Them

Holidays don’t have to be stressful for pet owners.

When you take the time to:

• choose the right care option

• update your pet’s identification

• prepare for emergencies

you dramatically reduce the risk of something going wrong.

Because the best holiday is one where everyone comes home safely — including the pets who make our houses feel like home.