Travel Tips for Pet Owners: Summer Vacation Edition
Summer is the season of travel, and more pet parents than ever are choosing to bring their furry companions along on vacation. Whether you’re heading to the beach, the mountains, or visiting family, careful planning is key to ensuring a smooth and enjoyable trip for everyone—including your pet.
Before you pack your bags, schedule a wellness check with your veterinarian. Make sure your pet is up-to-date on vaccinations, heartworm prevention, and flea and tick control. If you’re traveling across state lines or by air, you may also need a health certificate. Your vet can also recommend motion sickness treatments or calming aids if your pet has a hard time with travel.
Microchipping is highly recommended before any trip. If your pet gets lost in an unfamiliar area, a microchip greatly increases the chances of a safe return. Be sure your contact information is current in the microchip registry. Also, update your pet’s ID tags with your cell phone number since you won’t be home to answer your landline.
If you’re traveling by car, invest in a quality pet restraint system, such as a carrier, crate, or seatbelt harness. Never allow pets to roam freely in the vehicle—it’s not only unsafe but also distracting. Cats should always travel in a secure carrier. For dogs, make sure the seatbelt harness fits properly and is crash-tested for safety.
Take regular breaks every 2-3 hours so your pet can stretch, hydrate, and relieve themselves. Keep them on a leash at all times when outside the vehicle, even if they’re well trained. Rest stops are unfamiliar territory and can cause pets to behave unpredictably.
Air travel requires even more preparation. Check the airline’s pet policy well in advance. Some airlines allow small pets in the cabin, while larger pets may need to fly in the cargo area. Make sure your pet’s crate meets airline requirements, and consider a direct flight to minimize stress and transfers.
When booking accommodations, look for pet-friendly hotels or rentals. Many places now welcome pets, but policies vary—some charge fees, while others have weight or breed restrictions. Always confirm in advance and ask about available pet amenities like beds, bowls, and nearby walking areas.
Pack a pet-specific travel kit that includes:
- Food and water (with bowls)
- Medications
- Leash, collar, and harness
- Poop bags or litter supplies
- Grooming items
- Toys and comfort items
- Medical records and vaccination proof
Once you arrive at your destination, give your pet time to adjust. Set up a familiar space with their bed or blanket, and stick to a normal feeding and walking schedule as much as possible. Keep an eye out for escape routes like open windows, balconies, or gaps in fences.
Be mindful of regional hazards like poisonous plants, different insects, or local wildlife. Not every area is as pet-safe as your hometown. Check with local veterinarians or online pet travel resources to learn about risks specific to your destination.
Most importantly, never leave your pet unattended in a car or hotel room. Even with windows cracked, cars can overheat quickly in summer. And an unfamiliar hotel environment may cause anxiety or escape attempts.
Traveling with pets can be incredibly rewarding, strengthening your bond and creating lifelong memories. Contact Grace Animal Hospital at 116 Collins Crossing Road,Holly Springs, NC 27540 or call us today at 919-346-0285. With thoughtful preparation and safety precautions, you and your pet can enjoy all the fun that summer travel has to offer.
