Making Your Pet’s Travel List
Whether you’re packing for a trip a few towns over or across state lines, making your pet a travel list can be incredibly helpful. Without making a travel list, it can be easy to leave important items at home that should have been brought along for the trip. Crossing all your T’s and dotting your I’s will help your journey go a lot smoother.
Essential Items for Your Pet Travel List
Before you pack the fun stuff, make a list of essential items for your pet’s travel experience. This often includes:
Identification
One of the most important items to prepare is proper identification for your pet. Whether you have a cat or a dog, make sure they are wearing an ID tag with up-to-date information. The tag should include your pet’s name, your phone number, and any known medical conditions.
Even if your pet is microchipped, an ID tag is essential as it provides immediate contact information for anyone who might find your pet. Not everyone is familiar with microchips or knows where to get one scanned, so an ID tag is a simple and effective way to ensure your pet can be returned to you quickly if they get lost.
Documentation
Always carry copies of your pet’s immunization records and any necessary health certificates. Some destinations require a health certificate from your veterinarian before arrival, especially if you’re traveling across state lines or internationally.
Having these documents on hand can prevent delays and ensure that your travel goes smoothly. It’s a good idea to keep these records in a waterproof folder or plastic sleeve to protect them during your travels.
Travel Crate or Carrier
Selecting the right travel crate or carrier is crucial for your pet’s comfort and safety. Choose a carrier that is well-ventilated, secure, and appropriately sized for your pet. It should be spacious enough for your pet to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably.
A carrier that is too small will make your pet uncomfortable and anxious, while one that is too large can lead to accidents inside the crate or pose safety risks during transport.
If traveling by plane, check out the airline’s policies for crates and carriers.
Food and Water Supplies
When packing for your trip, be sure to include enough food to last the entire duration of your journey. It’s a good idea to bring along more than you think you’ll need, just in case of delays or emergencies. If you’re unable to bring a large quantity of food, jot down the exact brand and type of food your pet eats so you can purchase the correct one if needed.
Sudden changes in diet can cause digestive upset, so sticking to their regular food is best. Pre-measuring portions can also make feeding times easier while on the road. And be sure to pack a portable water bowl and plenty of bottled water to keep your pet hydrated, especially during warm weather or long trips.
Comfort Items
To help your pet feel secure and reduce travel anxiety, bring along a few of their favorite comfort items. Whether it’s a beloved toy, a cuddly blanket, or even an item that smells like home, these familiar objects can provide a sense of security and make the travel experience less stressful for your pet. If your pet has a lot of comfort items, choose a few of their favorites to keep them calm and happy during the trip.
Medications and First Aid Kit
If your pet takes medication regularly or as needed, be sure to bring an ample supply for the trip. Don’t forget to pack any instructions on how to administer the medicine, and consider carrying a copy of the prescription, especially if you’ll be traveling for an extended period.
It’s also wise to include your pet’s medications in a first aid kit tailored for their needs. Along with medications, the first aid kit should contain essentials like:
- Bandages
- Antiseptic wipes
- Tweezers
- Digital thermometer
- Non-stick pads
- Scissors
These items can help you handle minor injuries or health issues that might arise during your trip. If you’re unsure about how to use any of the first aid items or have questions about traveling with your pet, don’t hesitate to give us a call at Revel Vet. We’re here to help ensure your pet’s safety and well-being while you’re on the go.
Make an Appointment with Revel for Travel Help
Preparing Your Pet for Travel
Before you leave for your trip, schedule a visit to your veterinarian for a routine physical exam. This check-up will confirm that your pet is in good health and ready to travel. The vet can check for any underlying health issues that might be exacerbated by travel and ensure that your pet is up-to-date on vaccinations and preventive treatments, including flea, tick, and heartworm medications.
If you’re traveling to an area with different climate conditions or higher altitudes, discuss these changes with your vet. They can provide advice on how to manage these challenges and may prescribe medications or treatments to help mitigate any potential risks.
Travel Training and Acclimatization
Start by taking your pet on short car rides to help them get used to the motion and sounds of travel. Gradually increase the duration of these trips to build their tolerance. This process helps your pet become more comfortable with the idea of traveling and reduces the chances of travel-related stress or motion sickness during longer journeys.
To reduce travel anxiety, give your pet treats, praise, and toys during and after short trips to create positive associations with travel. Use a travel crate or carrier to help them feel secure. You can also use pheromone sprays or calming supplements recommended by your vet to soothe your pet. On the day of travel, stay calm and positive, as pets can sense their owner’s anxiety.
Tips for Different Modes of Travel
The tips for traveling safely and comfortably with your pet will vary based on whether you’re flying by plane or traveling by car, and if you’re traveling in-state, out-of-state, or out of the country.
Traveling by Car
If your pet isn’t in a crate when traveling by car, ensure their safety by using seat belts, pet harnesses, or travel crates. These restraints keep your pet secure and minimize the risk of injury in case of sudden stops or accidents.
To make sure they’re as safe as possible, smaller pets should be placed in a carrier that can be secured with a seat belt, and use a harness or a pet seat belt for larger dogs.
Plan for regular stops during your car trip to allow your pet to stretch, exercise, and relieve themselves. Aim for a break every 2-3 hours. During these stops, keep your pet on a leash and provide them with water. This helps prevent restlessness and ensures your pet stays comfortable and hydrated throughout the journey.
Traveling by Plane
Before you get to the airport, check your airline’s specific regulations and policies regarding pet travel. These regulations can vary significantly between airlines. Each airline has their own recommendations and requirements for health certificates, pet carriers, and potentially additional pet fees. Some airlines will allow pets to travel in the cabin with you depending on size, whereas other pets require them to remain in cargo.
Make an Appointment with Revel for Your Pet’s Health Certificate
Ensuring Comfort and Safety During the Trip
Ensuring your pet’s comfort and safety during the trip is crucial to making the journey as smooth and stress-free as possible. One of the key factors in achieving this is minimizing travel time wherever you can. The less time your pet spends in a car, plane, or other travel mode, the less likely they are to experience discomfort or stress. If possible, plan your route to avoid unnecessary stops or delays, and opt for the quickest travel options available. This can make a significant difference in how your pet handles the journey.
On the day of your trip, it’s important to feed your pet a few hours before departure. Feeding them too close to travel time can increase the risk of digestive upset, such as nausea or vomiting, especially if your pet is prone to motion sickness. By giving them time to digest their meal before hitting the road, you reduce the chances of accidents during the trip. Make sure to offer water regularly but in small amounts to keep them hydrated without overfilling their stomach.
Maintaining a Routine
Maintaining a consistent routine is essential for helping your pet feel secure during travel. Pets thrive on routine, and disruptions to their normal schedule can lead to increased anxiety and stress. Do your best to keep feeding and walking schedules as close to normal as possible. For example, if your pet is used to eating breakfast at 7 AM, try to feed them around that time, even on the day of travel. Similarly, stick to their usual walk times, giving them the chance to relieve themselves and burn off some energy before continuing the journey.
If you’re traveling to a different time zone, plan ahead to adjust your pet’s routine gradually. Start by shifting their feeding and walking times by small increments a few days before you leave. This will help them acclimate more easily to the new schedule once you arrive at your destination.
Post-Travel Care
Help your pet adjust to the new environment by making their space as comfortable and familiar as possible. The comfort items you brought along for travel can help with this along with any items that smell like you.
Remain Patient
Some pets acclimate to new places quickly whereas others have a hard time adjusting. Remain patient and understanding while your pet adjusts to their new surroundings at their own pace.
For further reading, check out our sources:
Pet Travel | Domestic and International Travel With a Pet
Take a Pet From One U.S. State or Territory to Another (Interstate)
Traveling with your pet FAQ | American Veterinary Medical Association
