But in some cases, furry family members are being left behind at home.

The ACT RSPCA has said they have received a surge in calls in the past few weeks about pets potentially being left at home alone while their owners go away on holiday.

Jacqueline Bunt from the organisation said the scenario was a common occurrence every year for the animal welfare group.

"We see it every year, yet it still happens: people going on holiday and not making plans for their pets while they're gone," she said.

"We urge people to make proper arrangements for someone to care for their pet or, alternatively, put them in pet boarding."

Ms Bunt said a majority of the calls had been from concerned neighbours who believe pets living next door had been abandoned over the summer break.

However, she said in a majority of cases, most animals left at home were being looked after by a pet sitter, who may not always be around during the day.

"Much of the time, our inspectors are asking people to have a look around and try and contact the neighbours before our inspectors visit the premises," Ms Bunt said.

A spokeswoman for Transport Canberra and City Services said 42 dogs had been impounded at the Domestic Animal Services over the Christmas period to January 2.

Out of those dogs, 23 were strays and 11 were dropped in the front pent outside DAS's compound in Symonston.

The spokeswoman said the increase in dogs being impounded over the Christmas period was due to them escaping backyards while owners are away on holidays.

"There were no impoundments of puppies or younger dogs, suggesting these dogs were not unwanted Christmas gifts," she said.

The RSPCA also said there had not been a post-Christmas surge of unwanted dogs or cats who had been given as presents.

Ms Bunt said it's good to see the message surrounding responsible pet ownership was getting through.

The RSPCA said for neighbours to undertake some initial checks of the house and the situation of the pet before ringing inspectors over the holiday period.

"If they think the pet has been abandoned, ring the neighbours or knock on their door or keep an eye out for people around or if the pet has food and water," Ms Bunt said.

"If people are leaving their pets in the care of another person while they're on holidays, they should ensure that the home is safe and the animals have plenty of access to food, water and shelter to help them pass the time comfortably.

"It's important that when you get someone to look after your pets that the sitter is committed to spending some time with them."