Whether you’re heading to a weekend cabin or embarking on a cross-country adventure, bringing your pet along can make the journey even more special. But traveling with animals comes with its own set of challenges—and a little preparation can make all the difference.
At Animal Care Clinic, we want to help you and your furry friend enjoy every mile together. Here’s your comprehensive guide to traveling safely with pets, including planning tips, safety essentials, and how to keep your companion comfortable on the road or in the air.
1. Is Your Pet Travel-Ready?
Before making travel plans, ask yourself:
Is my pet healthy enough to travel?
Will they be anxious or uncomfortable in a car or plane?
Are they up-to-date on vaccinations and parasite prevention?
Does my pet do well in unfamiliar environments?
Schedule a pre-travel vet checkup to make sure your pet is fit to travel. We’ll review their health, update vaccines, discuss sedation options (if needed), and provide a Certificate of Health, which some airlines and hotels require.
2. Traveling by Car: Safety First
For most pet owners, road trips are the preferred way to travel. Here’s how to make the ride smooth and safe:
Use a Proper Restraint
Never let your pet roam freely inside the vehicle. Use:
Crates: Well-ventilated and secured with a seatbelt.
Pet seat belts: Harness-style restraints that connect to car buckles.
Pet barriers: For SUVs, these keep pets safely in the cargo area.
Unrestrained pets are a safety hazard for both passengers and themselves—especially in an accident.
Plan for Frequent Breaks
Stop every 2–3 hours for bathroom breaks, water, and exercise. Always use a leash when letting your pet out of the car, even in rural areas.
Never Leave Your Pet in a Parked Car
Even with windows cracked, temperatures can soar in minutes. A 75°F day can turn into a 100°F interior death trap. If you can’t bring your pet with you inside a store or restaurant, it’s safest to leave them at home.
3. Traveling by Air: Know the Rules
Flying with pets requires extra planning. Each airline has different rules, so check their pet policy in advance. Generally, pets can travel:
In-cabin: Small dogs and cats in airline-approved carriers under the seat.
As cargo: For larger animals (note: this can be stressful and risky).
As checked baggage: On some airlines, under strict guidelines.
Tips for Safe Flying:
Book direct flights to minimize layovers.
Label carriers clearly with ID, destination, and emergency contact info.
Avoid sedatives unless recommended by your vet.
Choose flights during cooler times of day if your pet must travel in the cargo hold.
Confirm health certificate and vaccine requirements (especially for international travel).
For brachycephalic breeds (like bulldogs and pugs), flying in cargo is strongly discouraged due to breathing risks.
4. What to Pack: Pet Travel Essentials
Make a travel checklist to ensure you have everything your pet needs:
Pet Travel Bag Should Include:
Food and treats
Bottled water and collapsible bowls
Medications and medical records
Leash, collar, and ID tags
Waste bags and pee pads
Favorite blanket or toy
Travel crate or carrier
Cleaning supplies (paper towels, disinfectant wipes)
First-aid kit
Consider adding calming items like a pheromone spray or a pressure vest if your pet is anxious.
5. Pet-Friendly Accommodations and Destinations
Call ahead to verify that your hotel, Airbnb, or campsite is pet-friendly—even if they advertise as such online. Ask about:
Pet fees
Size or breed restrictions
On-site pet relief areas
Crate requirements (some require crating if left alone)
Use apps like BringFido or GoPetFriendly to find pet-friendly lodging, restaurants, parks, and more.
6. Microchips and Identification
Before any trip, double-check that your pet’s microchip is registered and up to date with your current phone number and address.
Your pet should also wear a collar with:
A visible ID tag
Rabies tag
Destination contact information (especially if you’ll be unreachable at your regular number)
A GPS tracking collar is also worth considering for longer trips or pets prone to escaping.
7. Keeping Pets Comfortable on the Road
Just like humans, pets can get carsick or anxious during travel. Here’s how to make them feel better:
Limit food before travel: Feed your pet 3–4 hours before the trip to reduce nausea.
Use calming aids: Pheromone sprays, calming chews, or vet-prescribed anti-anxiety meds.
Bring familiar scents: Blankets or toys that smell like home can be comforting.
Maintain routine: Stick to your pet’s regular feeding and potty schedule as much as possible.
Provide entertainment: Chews and puzzle toys can keep your pet occupied on long trips.
If your pet is especially anxious, talk to your vet about safe sedation or anxiety relief options.
8. Traveling with Exotic Pets or Multiple Animals
Traveling with rabbits, birds, reptiles, or multiple pets? Extra care and planning are needed:
Ensure proper temperature control and secure carriers.
Avoid stressful environments like loud hotels or high-traffic areas.
Bring species-specific food and cleaning supplies.
Check state or country restrictions—some exotics are not legal to travel across borders with.
9. Pet Health Emergencies on the Road
Even with the best planning, emergencies can happen. Before you leave:
Research emergency vet clinics along your route and at your destination.
Save contact info for nearby veterinary ERs.
Download a pet first-aid app (like Pet First Aid by American Red Cross).
Bring your vet’s contact info and your pet’s full medical history.
Final Thoughts: Safe Travels with Your Pet Start with Smart Planning
Traveling with your pet doesn’t have to be stressful. With the right gear, preparation, and vet support, your furry family member can safely join you on many unforgettable adventures.
At Animal Care Clinic, we’re here to help with pre-travel checkups, travel certificates, and personalized health plans so you can hit the road or skies worry-free.
Book Your Pre-Trip Pet Visit Today
📍 Visit us at 106 N. Eisenhower Dr. in Junction City
📞 Call us: 785-762-5631
🌐 Book an appointment online here
Whether you're driving cross-country or flying to a tropical destination, let us help you make the trip a smooth one—for both you and your pet.