Take the stress out of travelling with your pet

Any holiday or trip requires planning and organisation – particularly if your dog or cat will be tagging along. Learn the basics of travelling safely with your pet to ensure your trip is fun and stress-free.

Six tips to take the stress out of travelling with your pet

Our pets are members of our families, and we’d love to take them with us on all our holidays and trips. But in addition to keeping them safe and healthy, you’ll need to consider additional logistics when travelling away from home with your pet. While this task can feel overwhelming, with good planning and organisation it’s possible to safely include your beloved dog or cat on many of your travels. Our handy recommendations will help you get started.

1. Consider if this trip is in your pet’s best interests

The most important step in planning your trip is to think about your pet’s wellbeing. Travel can be stressful for animals as well as humans, so before you start planning the trip, ask yourself some basic questions about your pet’s suitability: 

You know your pet better than anyone, and if you think the trip might be too much for them it’s better to leave them behind with a trusted carer.

Additionally, ensure that your itinerary will be pet-friendly from beginning to end. Check in advance that all hotels, airlines, ferries and coach companies you plan to use allow pets. Don’t book any non-refundable accommodations or services until you are sure your pet is welcome.

2. How will your pet travel with you?

Ensure your car has a suitable area for your pet to travel. If your pet is crate trained, this may be a good way to safely and comfortably transport your pet.

Cats should always travel in a cat crate or carrier. Make sure your cat is comfortable in their carrier by acclimatising them to it in the weeks and months leading up to the trip. Place their favourite toys, treats and bedding in the carrier to encourage them to see it as a safe place to rest. Leave the carrier door open at home to allow them to explore it on their own terms. Once they are comfortable, periodically confine them to the carrier for short periods. Your cat should always be supervised whilst in the carrier.

Ensure your dog is relaxed and comfortable in their crate before you travel with our guide to dog crate training.

Dog crates and cat carriers should be of appropriate size for your pet, have comfortable bedding, good ventilation and a secure lock.

4. Consider bathroom breaks and rest stops

Make sure you have mapped out spots along your route for your dog or cat to relieve itself. 

Dogs generally need at least three to five bathroom breaks per day, but this may increase if your dog is nervous, older or has been drinking more water.

If you are travelling with your cat, give them the chance to use the litter box every four to six hours. Travel may increase the stress levels in your cat, so ensure that all areas are secure or put them on a harness before you let them out of their crate to use the litter box and have a drink.

5. Understand the health risks of travelling with your pet

Schedule a visit to your vet to discuss your pet’s general health and suitability to travel, as well as any parasite preventatives they need.  You may also want to research pet and animal hospitals near your destination, in case of emergencies.

6. Stock up on pet essentials before your trip

Make a list of everything your pet will need, and then head to the pet store. Some items to consider include: 

Travelling with your pet can be a stressful experience, but with the proper preparation and documentation, you can enjoy a worry-free holiday with all the members of your family.