15 Dog Transportation Tips that Travel Pros Know
Discover essential tips for traveling with dogs in summer. From flights to cars, learn how to handle dog transportation and ensure their safety during your trip.
CALIFORNIA DOG-FRIENDLY TRAVEL: HOW TO GET HERE
Katie Abendroth
4/8/2024
Summer Travel Series Part 1: Navigating Dog Transportation
Traveling with your dog can be a fantastic experience, but it does require extra planning and preparation.
Whether you're taking a road trip or are a frequent flyer this summer, here are some tips from the pros to make traveling with your dog easier.
When it comes to traveling, most of us want to take our dog along, but there are common barriers that make travel with pets intimidating.
From motion sickness to indoor access, having a four-legged traveler as your companion adds some stress.
We just need strategies and gear that make dog travel less stressful on everyone. A lot of my dog travel has been marked (no pun intended) by poor planning and as they say, failing to plan is planning to fail.
So if you are traveling this summer with your pup, here are 15 tips about dog transportation that will improve your experience no matter how you are getting to your destination.
Save for Later:
FLIGHTS
Book direct flights
Whenever possible, book direct flights to reduce the chance that your dog gets lost or sick on a layover. The extra money is worth it to reduce everyone's stress.
Research pet friendly airlines
Travel with your pet in cabin if possible. Some airlines have restrictions, so be sure to check.
Never falsely claim your dog is a service dog. American Airlines recently relaxed their small dog policy, here, allowing both a small dog plus a carry on.
Check crate requirements
Invest in a well-ventilated and secure travel crate that meets the airline's requirements. Make sure it's large enough for your dog to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably.
This mesh carrier with wheels and pull handle by Katzielia can't be beat.
QR Collar
Label your travel crate with your name, phone number, and destination address.
Add a QR collar tag that also has your dog's microchip number, name, owner contact, and emergency contact.
Visit the vet
Visit the vet before the trip to ensure your dog is up to date on vaccinations and obtain a health certificate if required by the airline.
Your vet can also prescribe anti-nausea or medicine to help with anxiety if your dog needs it for flying.
Bring labeled pet medicine in your carry on
Bring essential items like a leash, collar with identification tags, food, water, and any necessary medications in your carry on. Keep all medicine in original packaging.
Arrive extra early to the airport, so you can get through security, pay extra fees, and visit pet relief (potty) areas.
CAR TRAVEL
Buckle up
Use a secure and appropriately sized dog seat belt to restrain your dog during car rides.
A seat belt like this one connects to harness and seat buckle to prevent injury.
Practice short drives
Make sure your dog is familiar and comfortable with car rides by taking them on short trips before longer trips.
Shorter trips will also inform you if your dog gets motion sick, or anxious in the car. If so, your vet can prescribe medicine or supplements to help.
Plan pet-friendly pit stops
Take frequent breaks to allow your dog to stretch their legs, relieve themselves, and get some fresh air. Plan to stop at pet-friendly rest stops or parks along your route.
Never leave your dog alone in a parked car, as temperatures can rise quickly and cause heatstroke.
Prevent pet suffocation
Always make sure chip bags and candy wrappers are cleared out of your vehicle if you stop.
Even a few moments alone can lead to an emergency, so educate yourself here before you travel.
Feed light before travel
One of the first things you can do is to feed your dog a light meal a few hours before the journey.
This helps prevent an empty or full stomach, both of which can contribute to motion sickness.
By providing your dog with a balanced meal, you can help stabilize their blood sugar levels and reduce the likelihood of them feeling nauseous during the trip.
PREVENT MOTION SICKNESS
Open windows
Open the car windows slightly to allow fresh air to circulate. Run the A/C to keep the car cool. This can help combat any stuffiness or stale air in the vehicle, which can contribute to feelings of nausea.
The fresh breeze can provide a sense of relief since dogs are highly sensitive to smells, and letting your dog look out the window will help balance their vestibular which causes motion sickness.
Try ginger
If your dog's motion sickness persists despite these measures, you may want to consider using supplements or sedative medicine from your vet.
Ginger treats are often recommended for their anti-nausea properties. However, please consult with your veterinarian before trying any new products. They can provide guidance on the right dosage or recommend medicine instead.
Offer water, not food, during travel
Feeding your dog during the travel leg of your journey should be avoided, but keep them hydrated with water.
This is because eating while in motion can increase the chances of nausea. Wait until you stop for the night to feed your pup a full meal.
LAST BUT NOT LEAST...
ALWAYS update your dog's microchip info before you travel.
Check out our next segment: Summer Dog Travel 2: Flying with an Emotional Support Animal (ESA)
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