Traveling With Your Pet: A Complete Planning Guide

Whether you're planning a road trip, flying across the country, or moving to a new home, traveling with your pet requires careful preparation to keep them safe and comfortable. If your pet struggles with travel anxiety, our guide on how to help your anxious dog has helpful tips.

Before You Go

Veterinary Checkup

Schedule a vet visit 2-4 weeks before travel to:

• Ensure vaccines are up to date
• Get a health certificate (required for air travel)
• Discuss anti-anxiety options if your pet is nervous
• Refill any medications

Microchip and ID Tags

• Update microchip registration with current contact info
• Ensure ID tags are secure and readable
• Consider a GPS collar for extra security

Practice Makes Perfect

If your pet isn't used to their carrier or car rides:

• Leave the carrier out with treats inside
• Take short practice trips
• Make the carrier a positive, safe space

Traveling by Car

Safety First

• Never leave pets in parked cars — Temperatures can become deadly in minutes
• Use proper restraints — Carriers, crates, or pet seat belts
• Don't let them ride in front seats — Airbags can injure pets

During the Trip

• Stop every 2-3 hours for bathroom breaks and water
• Keep the car at a comfortable temperature
• Avoid feeding large meals before travel to prevent motion sickness
• Bring familiar items (blanket, toy) for comfort

What to Pack

• Food and water (enough for the trip plus extra)
• Collapsible bowls
• Leash and harness
• Poop bags and cleanup supplies
• First aid kit
• Current photos of your pet
• Veterinary records

Traveling by Plane

Know the Options

• Cabin: Small pets in approved carriers under the seat
• Cargo: Larger pets in climate-controlled cargo hold
• Pet-specific airlines: Some carriers specialize in pet transport

Airline Requirements

Every airline has different rules. Check:

• Carrier size restrictions
• Breed restrictions (some won't fly brachycephalic breeds)
• Health certificate requirements
• Reservation deadlines (pet spots are limited)
• Fees and policies

Preparation Tips

• Book direct flights when possible
• Fly during moderate weather
• Exercise your pet before the flight
• Freeze water in the bowl so it won't spill but stays available
• Attach a leash to the carrier for security checks

Cargo Considerations

If your pet must fly cargo:

• Use an airline-approved, sturdy crate
• Label with "Live Animal" and your contact info
• Include a photo of your pet on the crate
• Avoid sedation unless vet-approved

Pet-Friendly Accommodations

Finding the Right Place

• Call ahead to confirm pet policies
• Ask about size limits and breed restrictions
• Inquire about pet fees and deposits
• Check for nearby parks or walking areas

Hotel Etiquette

• Never leave your pet alone in the room for long periods
• Bring a crate or bed from home
• Keep them off furniture unless it's allowed
• Clean up after them immediately
• Be mindful of barking and noise

International Travel

International travel with pets requires extra planning:

• Research destination country's import requirements
• Some countries require quarantine periods
• USDA health endorsement may be needed
• Allow months for preparation

Anxious Travelers

Some pets struggle with travel anxiety. Options include:

• Calming supplements (consult your vet)
• Thundershirt or anxiety wraps
• Familiar scents on bedding
• Pheromone sprays
• In severe cases, prescription medication

When Not to Travel With Your Pet

Sometimes, leaving your pet at home is the kindest choice:

• Very short trips
• Extreme weather conditions
• Pets with serious health conditions
• Destinations with no pet-friendly options
• Senior pets who stress easily

Consider a trusted pet sitter or boarding facility instead. Our guide on pet sitter vs. hotel: how to choose can help you decide.

The Destination

Once you arrive:

• Give your pet time to adjust to new surroundings
• Maintain their regular feeding and walking schedule
• Keep them on leash in unfamiliar areas
• Know the location of the nearest emergency vet

With proper planning, traveling with your pet can create wonderful memories together!

Sources

• American Veterinary Medical Association. "Traveling with Your Pet"
• USDA APHIS. "Pet Travel Requirements"
• American Kennel Club. "Tips for Traveling with Your Dog"