Safe Travels with Your Pet: Car
and Plane Tips
Vacations are way more fun with your furry BFF! But
traveling safely with your pet requires planning. Read on for tips to road trip
and fly stress-free with your dog or cat.
## Road Trips with Dogs
Road tripping with your pooch can
strengthen your bond and create awesome memories. Make car rides cozy for your
canine with these tips:
🚗
**Use a secured crate or carrier.** Crates keep dogs safe and prevent driver
distraction. Get one that fits your vehicle or buckle into the back seat.
🥩
**Take potty and meal breaks.** Stop every few hours so your dog can relieve
themselves and stretch their legs. Bring food, treats, bowls and a water
bottle.
🛣️
**Pack dog travel essentials.** Bring medications, first aid supplies, waste
bags, floor mats and spill-proof water. Frozen Kongs or chews keep dogs busy.
👃
**Cool airflow is key.** Keep the AC on and aim vents to the back. Overheating
and anxiety increase nausea.
😴
**Make rest stops.** Get overnight lodging that takes dogs so your pooch can
unwind. Research pet friendly hotels along your route.
🏞️
**Explore safely.** Use a long lead when taking dogs to new outdoor areas. Make
sure they have current tags and microchips in case they slip away.
Proper prep makes a road trip with dogs a breeze! Just
plan stops and pack essentials to keep them cozy.
## Flying with Dogs
Bringing your dog on a flight opens up
travel opportunities! Navigating airports and planes takes preparation:
✈️ **Choose dog friendly airlines/flights.** Most
airlines allow small pets in cabin or larger dogs as cargo. Research specific
size rules, paperwork, costs and limits.
🧳
**Use airline approved carriers.** Soft or hard sided carriers must contain the
dog and fit under seats or in cargo holds. Affix food and water bowls inside.
🐕**Prepare
necessary paperwork.** Have vet records, health certificates and any
transportation forms required by airline, state or country.
🚦
**Arrive early.** Allow extra time for airport screening and processing pets as
you navigate security, customs and terminals.
💺
**Keep carriers accessible.** Stow under seats, not overhead. Attach “Live
Animal” tags. Discourage passengers from interacting with your stressed pup.
🚽
**Use pet relief areas.** Find airport pet bathrooms for potty breaks.
Absorbent pads and empty bladders/bowels pre-flight minimize accidents.
The key to smooth flying is booking the right flights
and having compliant carriers, paperwork, supplies and realistic expectations.
Then you can jet away with your furry co-pilot!
## Road Tripping with Cats
Road trips can be more challenging with
cats, but it's possible! Reduce stress with these tips:
🐈
**Use a sturdy, secured carrier.** Hard carriers are safest. Covering the
carrier can reduce motion sickness. Buckle it in or secure in a footwell.
🚘
**Prepare the car interior.** Bring urine pads, towels and cleaning products in
case of accidents. Cover seats and block access under them.
🥫
**Prevent motion sickness.** Consult your vet about anti-nausea meds. Don't
feed right before travel and provide easy to digest foods.
🔊
**Keep the trip calm.** Maintain soothing, familiar smells. Play soft music.
Limit disruptions and keep the ride smooth.
🛣️ **Make frequent stops.** Keep trips short for
bathroom and leg stretch breaks in safe areas. Cats dislike change, so minimize
overnight lodging.
😾
**Expect some meowing.** Pack treats, toys and catnip for distraction. But
accept vocal protest is likely! Stay calm and reassuring.
While more difficult, road trips are possible with
proper planning for your feline. Time it right and keep kitty's needs met on
the journey.
## Air Travel with Cats
Bringing cats by air comes with extra
challenges. But these tips make air travel smoother:
✈️ **Choose accredited airlines.** Look for established
policies for transporting pets safely as cargo or carry on.
👜
**Get an approved carrier.** It must be leak-proof, well ventilated, and roomy
enough for them to move and lie down. Affix bowls. Soft sides compress under
seats.
📝
**Consult your vet.** Make sure your cat's vaccines and health exam are up to
date for any transportation forms. Consider anti-anxiety medications.
🧳
**Line carrier with familiar bedding.** Pack litter box supplies for airport
stops. Freeze water bottles to avoid spills. Attach identity tags securely.
🏢
**Request an early boarding time.** This reduces waiting around in terminals.
Transport to and from planes quickly.
👕
**Avoid sedating cats.** It's risky and most airlines prohibit it. Natural
calming aids may be allowed - ask your vet.
Air travel with cats takes effort but opens up amazing
destination possibilities! Do your homework to keep your furry travel buddy
safe and content.
Wherever you roam with
your dog or cat, diligent prep makes the journey less stressful for pets and
owners. Bon voyage with your furry co-pilots!
