Traveling with pets can be fun and exciting, but it’s also nerve-racking, especially for those traveling with a pet for the first time. If you’re traveling with pets, check out our guide of dos and don’ts to ensure a comfortable and safe journey for you and your pet!

The Dos

List the Essentials

When preparing to travel with a pet, there’s a lot that you have to remember to pack for yourself and your pet, and it’s easy to forget a thing or two. So before you start packing, list all the essentials you’ll need to pack for your pet.

Some basic things you’ll probably need to pack for your pet include the following:

• Food
• Food/water bowl
• Treats/snacks
• Crate
• Toys
• Medicine (if needed)

As you pack, have your list nearby and cross items off so that you have everything you need when setting out.

Give Your Pet Frequent Breaks

If you’re taking a road trip with your pet, a good tip is to give it frequent breaks from the car and travel. Being cooped up in the car for hours can cause restlessness and anxiety, so your furry friend needs time to get some energy out. When you stop for gas, food, or a bathroom break, take a few extra minutes to take your pet out and exercise.

The Don’ts

Leave Your Pet Unidentified

One of the most crucial dos and don’ts of traveling with pets is ensuring that it has proper identification. If it’s a dog or cat, ensure it has a firm collar or harness with identification tags that include the pet’s name and your contact information in case something happens.

Also, consider a permanent form of identification for travel, like a microchip, as an extra precaution. And when traveling, you should bring along your pet’s vaccination records and a recent picture of the animal for identification.

Travel Without Consulting the Vet

Whether traveling by car, plane, train, or boat, consult a veterinarian before leaving. If your pet is flying with you, you’ll definitely need to see the vet, as airlines require a health certification before travel.

Even if it’s just for a relatively short road trip, have the vet check your pet first to ensure it’s capable and ready. If your pet gets anxious and restless during the trip, consider asking the vet about anti-anxiety medication or toys to help it stay calm and comfortable during travel.