A cat that arrives rattled is a cat that needs longer to settle. The ride is the part you can control, and a little practice in the weeks before makes it easier.
Set up the carrier
Cat Friendly Homes, the AAFP's owner program, recommends a hard plastic carrier, preferably one with a top that comes off, kept out in the home as part of the cat's space rather than pulled from storage on trip day. Line it with a blanket or T-shirt that smells like home and, if you use one, spray it with a feline pheromone product as directed. AAHA adds that forcing a cat into a carrier even once can undo weeks of careful training, so let the cat walk in by choice.
The drive itself
- Place the carrier on the floor of the back seat, where AAHA says it is least likely to shift, or belt it onto the seat.
- Cover it with a light cloth so the cat is not watching traffic go by.
- Brake and turn gently. Midway Road is a country road, so slow down for the last stretch.
- Keep the radio low and your own voice calm.
- Never open the carrier in the car, even to comfort a crying cat.
Drive times to Happy Paws
The address, 6677 Midway Road, is a few miles outside Dixon. A large white wind turbine near the property is the landmark to head toward.
| From | Approximate drive (free-flow) |
|---|---|
| Dixon | 5 minutes |
| Davis | 21 minutes |
| Vacaville | 21 minutes |
| Woodland | 25 minutes |
| Winters | 29 minutes |
| Fairfield | 32 minutes |
| Sacramento | 35 minutes |
At check-in
The kennel asks you to leave your pet in the car while you check in. A staff member carries in food and belongings and brings your pet in, so keep the carrier latched and the air conditioning on in warm weather. Drop-off windows are 7:30 to 11:30 AM and 2:00 to 5:00 PM every day except the holiday closures. A condo is $35 a night on the 2026 rates.