Traveling With Your Dog: Do’s and Don’ts

You’re gearing up to go on vacation, visit family, or have to leave due to an emergency. But you’re faced with a dilemma: what about your dog? If you want to travel with your dog, it’s important to learn the do’s and don’ts of pet transportation.

There are other options, of course. You could have a friend or family member watch them, hire a dogsitter, or even board them through a service or vet. But those aren’t always feasible, especially if you’re leaving suddenly or your dog has specific care needs. 

How To Travel With Your Dog

Your dog’s travel needs may vary based on what type of transportation you’re using, but there are several core requirements that will remain the same. Your dog should be kept in a temperature-controlled room, have access to water, and have access to an area where they can relieve themselves. 

How Do You Travel With A Dog In A Car?

Travelling via car is one of the least stressful transportation methods for the majority of dogs. It’s also more affordable and provides owners with more control and versatility.

If you’re considering taking a trip with your dog, check out these do’s and don’ts to prepare:

Do: 

• Make your dog as comfortable as possible. The car should be well ventilated (with A/C or heat depending on the weather), your dog should have access to water, and your dog should be secured using a dog seat belt, dog car seat, or crate.
• Plan ahead to account for potty breaks. You should give your dog the opportunity to relieve themselves and stretch their legs at least every other hour. It’s also a good idea to be aware of emergency vets along your route, in case anything goes wrong.

Don’t:

• Ever leave your dog unattended in the car, especially during the summer. Plan to eat in the car or at pet-friendly restaurants (and go to the bathroom there, if possible). If you need to rest, book with a hotel that allows dogs.
• Feed your dog their regular meal, as travelling on a full or heavy stomach can cause carsickness. Instead, feed your dog a little bit throughout the day or give them smaller portions. If possible, plan to have mealtime during a longer break.

How Do You Travel With A Dog On A Plane?

Most airline companies offer pet transportation services, either as a “carry on” (if your dog is small enough) or in the cargo hold. However, travelling via plane can be extremely stressful for your dog, so weigh the pros and cons carefully before booking a ticket.

Below are the do’s and don’ts if you and your pup will be taking to the air.

Do: 

• Research the airline beforehand to see how pet-friendly they are and how successful they’ve been with pet transportation. Everyone has heard the horror stories about a pet being injured, becoming sick, or even dying after (or during) flying.
• Review the airline’s rules regarding pet transportation before you book the flight. Each airline has different rules about flying with dogs, which may include breed or weight restrictions, additional boarding paperwork, vet record submission, etc.

Don’t:

• Book your flight like you would without a pet. If you’re travelling with a dog, you need to take certain considerations in mind. Non-stop flights are preferred over ones with layovers and remember to check the weather to make sure it’s not too hot or cold.
• Use a wire crate for travel. The carrier you use will need to meet the guidelines set forth by the International Air Transport Association. Check with the airline to see if they have additional requirements for pet carriers.

How Do You Travel With A Dog On A Train, Bus, or Boat?

Though travelling by car or plane are the most common pet transportation methods, an increasing number of people are travelling via train, bus, and boat with their dogs.

If you want to do this, here are a few do’s and don’ts to consider.

Do:

• Thoroughly research the company beforehand. Some transportation companies don’t allow dogs at all (except if they’re service dogs), while others have breed or weight restrictions. Make sure you’re aware of their rules and policies.
• Plan for your dog’s basic needs. Unlike planes, most trains, busses, and boats don’t have pet accommodations. This means you’ll need to take pee pads, toys, and food and water to make sure your pup is comfortable.

Don’t:

• Assume other passengers or employees are dog friendly. Just because the company allows pets doesn’t mean that everyone wants to interact with them. Keep your dog as quiet and unobtrusive as possible, and make sure to never leave them unattended.
• Take your dog on the trip before preparing them. If possible, try to expose them to the transportation method before you need to leave. The more familiar it is, the more comfortable (and better behaved) your dog will be.