Summer Travel Tips For Vacationing With Pets
You know what they say: “Getting there is half the battle.” Bringing your pet along can make the journey more enjoyable, but long-distance travel can be stressful for both you and your four-legged companion. With a bit of preparation, however, traveling with your pet can be a safe and exciting adventure.
Preparation Basics
Before you hit the road or take to the skies, ensure your pet is microchipped and wearing a collar with an ID tag that includes your name, phone number, and address. Consider adding a temporary travel tag with your cell phone number and destination contact information for added security.
Below are some tips to help make your trip smooth and stress-free.
Traveling by Car
- Prepare Your Pet for the Journey
Ease your pet into long trips by starting with short drives and gradually increasing the duration. If you’re crossing state lines, carry your pet’s rabies vaccination record. While rarely required, some states may ask for proof at certain crossings. - Ensure Safety and Comfort
Keep your pet secure in a well-ventilated crate or carrier. The crate should be large enough for your pet to stand, sit, lie down, and turn around comfortably. Secure the crate to prevent it from sliding or shifting during sudden stops. If you’re not using a crate, never let your pet ride with their head out the window, and always secure them in the back seat with a harness attached to a seatbelt. - Pack a Pet-Friendly Travel Kit
Bring essentials like food, a water bowl, leash, waste bags, grooming supplies, medications, a first-aid kit, and any necessary travel documents. Include a favorite toy or blanket to provide comfort and familiarity. Pack plenty of bottled water and avoid feeding your pet in a moving vehicle. Instead, feed them a light meal 3–4 hours before departure. - Never Leave Your Pet Alone in a Parked Car
On hot days, even with the windows cracked, a parked car can quickly become dangerously hot, leading to heatstroke. In cold weather, a car can act as a refrigerator, putting your pet at risk of freezing. Always prioritize their safety.
Traveling by Air: In-Cabin with Your Pet
- Check Airline Policies and Book Early
Most airlines allow small dogs and cats to fly in the cabin with you for an additional fee. Every airline has specific rules, and they limit the number of pets allowed on each flight. Call the airline directly to book your ticket and reserve a spot for your pet as early as possible. - Choose the Right Pet Carrier
You need an airline-approved pet carrier. Soft-sided carriers work best because they slide easily under the seat in front of you. Your pet must stay inside the carrier for the entire flight, so comfort matters. Make sure the carrier gives your pet enough room to stand up, turn around, and lie down naturally. Line the bottom with a familiar blanket or an absorbent pad to keep them cozy and clean. - Visit the Vet for a Checkup
Schedule a vet appointment right before your trip. You need to make sure your pet has all required vaccines and get a health certificate dated within 10 days of your flight. Airlines will check this paperwork at the counter. Ask your vet for natural ways to keep your pet calm during the loud, busy boarding process, as doctors usually advise against sedating pets for air travel. - Navigate Airport Pet Relief Stations
Most major airports now feature indoor pet relief stations past the security checkpoints. These areas give your pet a safe, clean place to use the bathroom. Look at the airport terminal maps online before you leave home so you know exactly where to find them. Take your pet to a relief station right before you board the plane and during any layovers to keep them comfortable on the journey. - Pack a Small Carry-On Kit
Bring a few essentials in your personal bag. Pack a collapsible water bowl, a small bag of food, a few treats, and extra waste bags. You can give your pet small sips of water during the flight to keep them hydrated but avoid giving them full meals while in the air to prevent an upset stomach.
International Travel
- Research Destination Requirements
Before planning your trip, confirm that your destination allows pets and understand their specific requirements. For example, the United Kingdom enforces strict quarantine rules for pets arriving from non-approved countries. The UK’s Pet Travel Scheme requires pets to be microchipped, vaccinated, tested, and certified—a process that can take up to six months. Similarly, Guam and many Caribbean islands have quarantine policies. Contact the destination country’s consulate for detailed guidelines. - Pet Passports for Europe
If you’re traveling to the European Union, your pet will need a passport. This document, issued by your vet, confirms that your pet’s rabies vaccination is up to date. Your vet will also need to complete a health certificate. Start this process at least three months before your trip to ensure compliance. For more information, visit the European Commission’s website. - Additional Documentation
Most destinations require an International Certificate of Pet Health or CFIA health certificate, which you can obtain from your vet or the destination country’s embassy. Keep the following in mind:
- Some countries require documentation to be translated into their official language.
- Certain destinations, like Ireland, mandate additional treatments (e.g., tick or tapeworm prevention).
- Carry the original rabies vaccination paperwork.
- If traveling with a service or therapy animal, bring a doctor’s letter detailing your need for the animal.
With proper planning and preparation, traveling with your pet can be a rewarding experience. Whether by car, plane, or across international borders, these tips will help ensure a safe and enjoyable journey for both you and your furry friend.
[ASPCA / Trips with Pets]
