How to Travel with a Dog

Trains, planes, or automobiles—no matter how you're traveling, bringing your dog along for the journey requires careful planning. Whether you're heading out for a weekend getaway or a cross-country adventure, ensuring your pup's comfort and safety is key. Here are essential tips to make your travels with your dog smooth and stress-free.

Plan for Travel with Your Dog

Schedule a Vet Appointment

Before hitting the road or boarding a flight, schedule a vet appointment to ensure your dog is healthy enough for travel. This is particularly important for air travel, as many airlines require documentation proving your pet is up to date on vaccinations and fit for travel. If your dog has any health conditions, discuss travel precautions with your vet.

Find Dog-Friendly Accommodations and Activities

Not all hotels, Airbnbs, or vacation rentals allow pets, so research in advance to find pet-friendly lodging. Similarly, check out dog-friendly activities at your destination to ensure there are places where your pup is welcome to join in the fun.

Research Veterinary Clinics at Your Destination

In case of an emergency, it’s always good to have a plan. Look up veterinary clinics near your destination, and keep their contact information handy. Also, bring your regular vet’s phone number in case you need to consult them while away.

Ensure Your Dog Has Proper Identification

Make sure your dog’s collar includes an updated ID tag with your phone number. Consider microchipping your dog if you haven’t already—this adds an extra layer of security in case they get lost while traveling.

What to Bring When Traveling with a Dog

Packing the right essentials will make your dog's travel experience much more comfortable. Here’s a checklist to ensure you have everything you need:

• Crate: Your dog should be able to sit, stand, and turn around in the carrier.

• Harness, collar with ID, and leash

• Portable food and water bowls

• Enough of their regular food for the whole trip, bottled water, and treats

• Any medications or supplements your dog regularly takes

• Favorite comfort items like toys, blankets, or their dog bed

• A new puzzle toy to keep them entertained during travel

• Poop bags

• Dog first aid kit

• Copies of vaccination records, medical history, and your vet’s contact information

• A recent photo of your pet to reference in case they get lost

Tips for Traveling with Dogs in a Car

1. Secure Your Dog for Safety - Dogs should never roam freely in a moving vehicle. Use a crate or secure them with a harness and seatbelt to keep them safe.

2. Ensure Proper Ventilation - If your dog is in a crate, make sure it is well-ventilated to keep them comfortable.

3. Prevent Car Sickness - Some dogs experience motion sickness. If your dog is prone to nausea, consider traveling on an empty stomach and consult your vet about possible remedies.

4. Take Frequent Breaks - Plan stops along the way for bathroom breaks, exercise, and hydration. A stretch and some fresh air can make long car rides more enjoyable for your pup.

5. Get Your Dog Comfortable with Car Rides - Before embarking on a long trip, take shorter car rides to help your dog get used to traveling.

6. Never Leave Your Dog Unattended in the Car - Extreme temperatures can be dangerous. Never leave your dog alone in a parked car, especially in hot or cold weather.

Tips for Flying with a Dog

1. Check Airline Pet Policies - Every airline has different rules for flying with dogs. Make a reservation for your pup early, as many airlines have limited spots for pets in the cabin. Check requirements regarding carrier size, breed restrictions, and health certifications.

2. Consider Carrier Size Restrictions - Most airlines require dogs to fit in a carrier that fits under the seat in front of you. Ensure your dog can comfortably fit in the approved carrier before booking your flight.

3. Be Aware of Breed and Age Restrictions - Some airlines do not allow certain breeds due to health risks, such as pugs and bulldogs, which can have respiratory issues. Additionally, puppies typically need to be at least four months old to travel by air.

4. Reconsider Flying with Large Dogs - If your dog is too big to fly in the cabin, they may have to travel in the cargo hold. This can be stressful and uncomfortable for them. If flying is necessary, research airlines with strong safety records for pet cargo travel.

5. Obtain Necessary Health Certifications - Many airlines require a health certificate from your veterinarian verifying your dog is fit for travel and up to date on vaccinations.

6. Exercise Before the Flight - Give your dog plenty of physical activity before the flight. A tired dog is more likely to relax and sleep during the trip.

7. Manage Food and Water Intake - Feed your dog about four hours before the flight to prevent discomfort. Offer water up until the flight, and take them to the pet relief area before boarding. Airports with over 10,000 passengers are required to have designated pet relief areas.

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