The Well-Exercised Pet is a Happy Traveller: A Pre-Trip Energy Guide

One of the simplest and most effective secrets to a peaceful journey with a pet is managing their energy. A pet that’s buzzing with pent-up energy is more likely to be anxious, vocal, and restless. A proper pre-trip exercise plan is your ticket to a calmer travel companion.
The goal is to tire them out, not exhaust them. You want your pet to be in a relaxed, ready-to-nap state, not so worn out that they are sore or stressed. For a high-energy dog, this might mean a long game of fetch or a run at the park. For a cat, an intense session with a laser pointer or feather wand will do the trick.
Timing is crucial. The exercise session should happen shortly before you plan to put them in their carrier to depart. This ensures the calming effects last into the beginning of the journey, helping them to settle down as you get underway. A last-minute potty break right after the exercise is also a must.
This strategy sets a positive tone for the entire trip. When a pet starts the journey in a calm state, they are less likely to become agitated by the unfamiliar sounds and motions of travel. It’s a proactive step that expends physical energy to preserve mental and emotional peace.