Pet Travel Tips for Airplanes and Car Rides

As the holidays approach and our “snowbird” clients prepare for warmer climates, one question comes up more than any other:

“What’s the best way to travel with my pet?”

Whether you’re planning a cross-country road trip or a flight, traveling with a furry family member adds a layer of planning and anxiety. At Oz Animal Hospital, we believe that with the right preparation, your pet’s journey can be safe, calm, and comfortable. This guide will serve as your veterinarian-approved checklist for both car and air travel, ensuring you and your companion are ready for the adventure ahead.

The Universal Checklist: For ALL Pet Travel

Before you even think about the mode of transport, these three steps are non-negotiable for any trip.

  1. The Pre-Travel Wellness Exam: This is the most important step. A visit to our clinic before your trip allows us to confirm your pet is healthy enough for travel. It’s also the time to update any necessary vaccines and, if you’re flying, to get a required Health Certificate (Certificate of Veterinary Inspection). This is also the perfect opportunity to discuss any travel-related anxiety your pet may have.
  2. Update Their ID: Ensure your pet’s collar has a securely fastened ID tag with your current cell phone number. If your pet is microchipped (and they should be!), log in to the microchip registry’s website and confirm your contact information.
  3. Pack Their “Go-Bag”: Just like you have a carry-on, your pet needs one too. Pack enough of their regular food for a few extra days, a supply of any medications they take, a portable water bowl, a favorite comfort item (like a blanket or toy), and a copy of their vaccination records.

On the Road: A Guide to Car Travel

Car travel offers the most flexibility, but safety and comfort are still key.

  • Secure Your Pet
    • This is the most common mistake we see. An unrestrained pet is a major distraction to the driver and is at extreme risk of injury in a sudden stop or crash. Use a well-ventilated, secured crate or a crash-tested safety harness. It’s their seatbelt!
  • Equip Yourself and Make Space
    • Choosing a larger car for your journey comes with advantages. Put the seats down to create extra space, and consider using weighted thunder jackets for particularly anxious pets.
  • Plan for Pit Stops
    • Plan to stop every 2-3 hours to allow your pet to stretch their legs, go to the potty, and have a drink of water.
    • Never let them out of the car without a secure leash, and if you can, choose less-trafficked areas for bathroom breaks instead of public pet relief areas in rest stops. Fresher grass means a lower risk of parasites!
  • What About Car Sickness?
    • Many pets experience motion sickness. Avoid feeding them a large meal right before you leave.
    • If you know your pet is prone to getting sick, don’t just hope for the best! We can prescribe safe and effective anti-nausea medication to make their journey much more comfortable.

In the Air: A Guide to Air Travel

Air travel is more restrictive and requires careful planning well in advance.

  • Your First Call Should Be to the Airline
    • Every airline has different rules regarding pet travel.
    • You must confirm their specific policies on carrier size and type (soft vs. hard, IATA-approved for cargo), breed restrictions (many airlines will not fly brachycephalic or “snub-nosed” breeds like French Bulldogs or Persian cats due to breathing risks), and whether your pet can fly in the cabin with you.
  • The Question of Sedation
    • This is a major pain point for owners. It’s tempting to think that sedating an anxious pet will make the flight easier.
    • However, we are extremely cautious about this. Sedatives can affect a pet’s ability to regulate their body temperature and breathing, which can be dangerous at altitude.
  • A Better Solution: Anti-Anxiety Medication
    • For nervous flyers, the much safer and more effective option is a pre-travel anti-anxiety medication prescribed by a veterinarian.
    • This medication “takes the edge off” their fear without the risks of heavy sedation. This is a critical conversation to have with us during your pre-travel exam.
  • Day of Travel Tips
  • Line the carrier with an absorbent “potty pad.”
  • Freeze water in the carrier’s dish so it can melt slowly without spilling.
  • A small t-shirt that smells like you can be a great comfort item!

Skip the Stress and Worry Less

Traveling with your pet doesn’t have to be a source of anxiety. A good game plan and the right information can help you manage most situations, but if you need further assistance, please feel free to reach out!

At Oz Animal Hospital, we’re dedicated to providing top-tier veterinary care that goes beyond traditional standards. Our team takes the time to understand your pet’s lifestyle, habits, and medical history to provide tailored recommendations for vaccines, preventative care, and treatment options. Choose Oz Animal Hospital for exceptional veterinary care that prioritizes your pet’s well-being and your peace of mind. To schedule your appointment, contact us today.