Preparing Your Pet for Travel

Whether it’s a long weekend at the lake, cross-country road trip, or a visit with family, early fall is an increasingly popular travel time. If your pet is coming along for the ride, a little prep can make a big difference – for their safety, your sanity, and everyone’s comfort.

Here’s what to know before you hit the road (or sky) with your dog or cat.

Prep Starts Before You Pack

Traveling with pets requires more than grabbing a leash and water bowl on your way out the door. Planning ahead is key to help avoid surprises and keep your pet comfortable.

Some recommendations:

• •Schedule a vet visit if your pet is overdue for vaccinations or needs a health certificate for air travel
• •Check microchip and ID tags to make sure your contact info is up to date
• •Refill prescriptions you don’t run out of allergy meds, calming aids, or flea/tick preventives during your trip
• •Pack a go-bag that includes food, collapsible bowls, treats, poop bags, a few toys, pet-safe wipes, and a towel for muddy paws

If your pet isn’t used to car travel, the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) recommends starting with short trips before a long journey.

Calming a Nervous Traveler

Some pets just take travel in stride. Others… not so much. If your dog paces in the back seat or cat meows nonstop in the carrier, try a few calming strategies:

• •Exercise before travel:A tired pet is often a calmer one
• •Keep familiar items close: Like a favorite blanket or toy
• •Use a secure carrier or crate: For cats and small dogs, it provides a safe and enclosed space which can calm animals
• •Try calming supplements: Ask your vet about pheromone sprays, chews with L-theanine, or melatonin
• •Consider prescription anxiety meds for longer trips—especially if your pet has a history of travel anxiety

“ Many signs of anxiety go unnoticed or are misinterpreted. Yawning, drooling, lip-licking, or excessive grooming during travel could be early signs of distress. “
- according to Fear Free® Pets program

On the Road or in the Air

Once you’re en route, a few simple habits go a long way toward a smoother trip:

• •Secure pets properly: Use a harness seat belt, crate, or carrier. Pets should never ride unrestrained in the car
• •Plan rest stops: Every 2–3 hours is ideal for dogs to stretch, urinate, and hydrate
• •Avoid feeding large meals before travel: This can help reduce motion sickness
• •Never leave pets in parked cars: Even with windows cracked, temperatures rise quickly, even on mild days so don’t leave them behind

The American Automobile Association (AAA) notes that unsecured pets can become dangerous projectiles in a crash and recommends all pets be secured during car travel.

Flying tip: Check the airline’s pet policy early and book direct flights whenever possible. Some carriers require documentation, carrier size restrictions, and advance reservations.

Double-Check Your Destination

Whether you’re staying with family, at a hotel or rental, be sure to:

• •Do a quick safety sweep: Check the space for loose cords, toxic plants, open windows and other dangers
• •Establish a quiet corner: Place familiar bedding and toys to help your pet settle in
• •Stick to your routine: Pets can’t ask questions, so maintaining feeding, walking and other schedules can help your pet feel safe.

Getting Ready to Go

With a little preparation and care, traveling with your pet can be safe, low-stress, and even fun! Whether you’re taking a quick leaf peeping weekend or flying across the country for a longer stay, the keys to remember are planning ahead, keeping your pet secure, and checking in with a vet if you have concerns.

Need quick advice before you go? Our licensed veterinarians are available 7 days a week. Book a virtual visit at VirtualVetDoc.com — because peace of mind should be part of your travel plan.