Traveling with your pet can be a grand adventure—or a fur-clad headache, depending on how well you prepare.

If your upcoming plans involve hitting the road, soaring the friendly skies, or hiking to a remote destination with your four-legged companion, consider every aspect of your trip from your pet’s perspective. To help you do this, the Caldwell Animal Hospital team has solicited travel tips from our most opinionated patients. 

Act like you know me: Ensure your pet wears ID

Whether you’re at airport security or checking in at your hotel, you need current identification. The same applies to your pet. Dudley the retriever writes:

“One time at a rest stop, I really had to “go.” To save some time, I jumped out of the open car window. But when I landed, I forgot my mission. I saw a squirrel I had to chase, found a cigarette butt I had to eat, and then met some friendly people towing a boat. When they asked me where I came from, I couldn’t remember. And, it turned out, I wasn’t wearing any identification.

Lucky for me—or maybe not, because I think I would have looked really good on their boat—my parents found me and leashed me up. 

Next time, I’ll be wearing a collar with updated tags, and have a registered microchip so I can get home safely, no matter what happens on the road. Too bad, though, that I won’t be chasing squirrels!”

Get my bags, please: First, make a pet packing list

At first glance, your pet’s packing list seems pretty basic—food, water, litter box, and a leash or carrier. But trying to fit your pet’s existence into a carry-on can leave you scrambling for the nearest pet supply store. Take it from Penelope the Boston terrier:

“I may seem like I’m always dressed to the nines, but to look and feel my best, I require a highly specific routine. My comfort and safety are a priority, so that list includes my travel seat belt, sweater, cozy bed, and pet first aid  kit—and don’t forget my dry eye medication. In addition to my essentials, like food and water, I don’t go anywhere without my favorite toys and treats, a puzzle to distract me, and clean-up supplies, so we don’t get fined for leaving my business behind.”

Don’t forget my meds: Request pet medication refills in advance

If your pet takes daily medications or as-needed medications for travel anxiety, contact Caldwell Animal Hospital at least 10 days before your departure to ensure we have what you need. High-maintenance hound Harvey encourages his owners to check their packing list twice:

“You wouldn’t travel without your sleep mask and sleeping pills, so please do the same for me and pack my medications, including whatever I occasionally take for motion sickness or anxiety. Bring a few extra doses in case we get delayed.

I need my meds. You need me to be on my meds. I’m sorry if I sound naggy, but you’ll thank me later.”

Cleared for takeoff: Pet travel and health certificates

Before you finalize your travel itinerary, contact each carrier, company, and destination to determine their pet policy and requirements. If your pet needs updated care, our team is happy to assist with travel certificates, microchipping, vaccinations, and any other travel-related requirements.

Jasper the domestic shorthair cat recounts a tall “tail” about his time in “prison” (i.e., animal control) down under.

“Ever get stuck at the border? I have. My owners didn’t have the right documentation and I got detained—for 30 days. It wasn’t all bad, because I made a lot of new friends on the inside, but being imprisoned was embarrassing, and I missed my family. Plus, I’m sure it was expensive—I could have been staying at a fancy hotel. I’m a different cat than I was before I did time.”

Precious cargo: Transport your pet with safety and care

Always restrain your pet in a carrier, crate, or seat belt during car travel, which helps them feel secure and reduces injury, escape, and ejection risks. If you’re flying with your pet, contact the airline to find out their crate or carrier requirements.

For those in-between moments, Stevie the shorthair encourages owners to use a gentle touch.

“Please handle my carrier like I am royalty, not a pizza delivery bag, although in a perfect world, the two would be equally revered. Remember, I’m extremely precious cargo!”

Keep me close: Hazards for unsupervised pets

No matter how trustworthy your pet is at home, unfamiliar environments pose unique challenges and risks. Some pets may feel anxious and attempt to flee, while others may become overexcited at the rush of new sights and smells.

Our friend Dudley sums up the matter:

“I’m not saying I would ever leave you, but if there’s a stray corn dog on the sidewalk or somebody dressed like a clown, I may have to take drastic action.” 

Here are some easy to follow precautions to ensure your pet has fun, but not too much fun, during their travels.

  • Leash your dog — A standard non-retractable leash can not only save your pet’s life but also can prevent accidents, such as toxin ingestion, dog fights, escape, or being hit by a car.
  • Keep your pet in their carrier or crate during travel — Each time you remove your pet, you risk them being injured or escaping. Limit your pet’s physical activity until you reach your destination.
  • Monitor your pet around doorways, balconies, and windows — Curious or frightened pets can easily slip through an open door or fall off a balcony.
  • Pet-proof your accommodations — Inspect your hotel room or rental for pet hazards, and supervise your pet’s activities to prevent destructive or dangerous behavior.

Although you can’t take the Caldwell Animal Hospital team with you on your trip, you can travel with peace of mind and confidence knowing you and your pet are completely prepared. For more travel tips or to schedule your pet’s pre-travel exam and updates, contact our team.