Taking a pet along on a trip makes each adventure an experience that you’ll both remember together; however, not preparing adequately may result in travel-related stress, medical problems, or emergency situations. The checklist below is based on the recommendations of veterinarians and includes the essential items to have prepared when traveling by car, air, or other modes of transportation to keep your pet healthy, relaxed, and comfortable during the journey.
Pre-Travel Veterinary Examination
Schedule a veterinary appointment 7 to 14 days prior to your trip to conduct a complete physical examination to ensure your pet is in good health. Obtain all core vaccinations and rabies shots as well as obtain flea and tick preventives, and heartworm medication specifically designed for the area you will be traveling through. Discuss motion sickness medication, anxiety reducing products or sedation options with your veterinarian should your pet exhibit signs of travel anxiety.
Secure a health certificate, which typically is good for at least 10 days for most commercial airlines, and verify microchip identification. Research the requirements regarding parasites and quarantine restrictions for your destination country; some countries may require a rabies titer test several months prior to your trip. Purchase enough of your pet’s prescription medication to last through any unexpected delays.
Critical Documents Folder
Store vaccinations and other important documents digitally on waterproof storage device, such as a waterproof USB drive:
- Vaccinations and Rabies Certificate
- USDA Health Certificate/Pet Passport
- Rabies Microchip Details and Registration
- Medication Labels w/dosage and contact information for vet
- Pet Photo and License Information
- Proof of Travel Insurance and Accommodation Policies
It is also important to have temporary ID tags with your phone number and destination information on them. “Having proactive documentation will avoid many border issues – it’s always best to check what documentation you need before traveling,” according to Dr. Sarah at Modern Vet Clinic.
Pet First Aid and Medication Kit
Create a first aid kit that can be easily taken with you on travel by placing all of the items into a portable, clearly labeled bag:
- All current medications including heartworms, allergies, anti-diarrhea, etc., along with an additional one to two week supply of each medication.
- Motion sickness medication prescribed by your veterinarian, i.e. Cerenia
- Wound care supplies, including antibacterial wipes, band-aids, gauze, Styptic Powder, tweezers.
- Tick removal tool, Saline Flush, Digital Thermometer, Gloves
- Eye Drops, Hydrogen Peroxide to induce vomiting if necessary, Benadryl (with dosage information provided by your veterinarian)
- Activated Charcoal to absorb toxins, Cold Pack for swelling.
Test your knowledge of how to use all of these products before traveling with your pet.
Food, Water, and Food/Water Accessories
To minimize gastrointestinal upset caused by changes in environment and/or feeding, follow your pet’s normal feeding routine:
- Sufficient amount of food to last throughout your trip plus three days worth of food stored in air-tight containers.
- Portability Collapsible Bowls, Portable Water Bottle(s), Bottled/Filtered Water
- Airline approved high value treats, Pill Pockets, Frozen Kong Treats
- Litter Box/Pads, Waste Bags, Enzyme-based Cleaner
- Feed your pet lightly four-six hours prior to traveling, Exercise your pet prior to departing to help ensure they remain calm.
Puzzle Feeders will assist in reducing stress and boredom associated with long periods of travel.
Safety, Comfort, and Essential Pet Accessories
Prioritize safety and your pet’s comfort during this time:
- Harness, Extra Leash, Car Seat Belt, or Airline approved Crate with Pads
- Familiar Bedding, Toys, Adaptil (pheromone Diffuser)
- Grooming Kit (brush, wipes, nail clippers, sunscreen)
- Cooling Vest, Rain Coat, or Life Jacket depending upon Climate and Activity Level
- LED Collar Light, Portable Fan, Poop Scoop
- Acclimate your pet to their carrier using short practice runs with treats. Also, backup batteries for all electronic equipment.
Mode-Specific Packing Tips
- Car Travel: Add a portable crate, a cleaning tote stocked with disinfectants and plans for frequent stops in order to allow time for your pet to take a potty break.
- Air Travel: An approved crate that is labeled with your information and includes absorbent bedding. Small pets may also use potty pads when they are traveling long distances by air.
- Boat or Outdoor Adventures: Include life jackets, sun screen and enough water to keep your pet hydrated during outdoor activities.
Comment from a Veterinarian at Modern Vet
As many veterinarians point out preparation reduces travel risk, and Dr Sarah added, “Having a well-stocked kit of supplies that allows you to provide hydration, secure your pet and maintain their health is essential to reducing stress and having successful travel experiences.”
Conclusion
This veterinarian-tested list will protect against dehydration, injury and illness so you can enjoy the experience of creating lasting memories with your pet. Check the list the evening prior to your departure and practice using some of the equipment in low-key situations prior to embarking on your adventure. Schedule a pre-travel appointment and make sure your pet is healthy enough to participate in your planned excursion.