Travel // PETA's Top Tips for Traveling With Dogs

Before You Go: Considerations and Preparations

Should You Take Your Dog Along?

Staying home is a must for sick, injured, or pregnant animals.

If dogs suffer from motion sickness, get over-stimulated easily, or get physically or emotionally upset when their routines are disrupted, the best option for them may be to stay home. This is especially true if your trip is a relatively quick one.

Will the trip be fun from your dog’s point of view, or will he or she be cooped up in a hotel room while you’re sunning on the beach or riding roller coasters?

Leave dogs where they are most comfortable, such as curled up on the couch or in the care of a trusted sitter, relative, close friend, coworker, or neighbor. It’s best to stick with adults because even well-intentioned youngsters can forget to come by when they are supposed to.

Find the perfect companion-animal sitter.

If you think that your dog would have a grand time with you but are worried about his or her lack of manners, brush up on training. Untrained dogs are frequently punished for their “improper” behavior and are restrained so that they don’t “get into trouble.” PETA supports humane, interactive training, which gives dogs greater freedom and a better understanding of our world. But you should be the only one who trains your dog—not only does turning him or her over to someone else for training invite unseen abuse, it also fails to teach you how to communicate effectively.

Preparing for Your Trip

Research rules and policies regarding animals, such as quarantine laws and transportation restrictions. Double-check that the hotel or other location where you’ll be staying is prepared to welcome your animal with open arms.

Consider having your animal microchipped by your veterinarian. This is a painless process in which a microchip containing all identification information is inserted under the animal’s skin.

Get a vet checkup. Have your vet issue a health certificate stating that your animal is healthy and able to travel and that all necessary vaccinations (recommendations and requirements change frequently) are up to date.

Packing Checklist

Check off the points below before you go to make sure that you’re ready to hit the road.

Clear, readable ID tag bearing your name, address, and home and cell phone numbers. Include a second tag with the contact information of a friend or family member or the address where you will be staying. (Shop at PETAMall.com for custom-engraved ID tags for only $5.95.) Please also consider having a microchip implanted in your animal.

Nylon harness and retractable leash. Choke-chains are particularly dangerous in travel—they can become snagged on carriers and can choke dogs to death. Bring an extra collar and a sturdy leash.

Current photo to help others recognize your dog in case he or she becomes lost.

Food, food bowl, can opener, and spoon. Note: Dry food is less prone to making your dog sick en route.

Bottled water and a water dish. Take water from home because unfamiliar water can cause an upset stomach. Also, freeze water in small containers that will thaw along the way. No-spill travel bowls are available in pet supply stores and catalogs.

First aid kit: medications (take extra in case of delays, and have your vet write an extra prescription in case the meds are lost), first aid book, bandages, hydrogen peroxide, tweezers (to remove foreign objects from fur or paws), antibacterial ointments, rectal thermometer, paper towels, and cotton swabs

A current health certificate from your veterinarian, dated within seven to 10 days of departure. It is essential that you have this certificate when flying and when entering some states by car. If you’re driving to another state, contact the State Veterinarian’s office ahead of time to find out if it is required.

Bags for disposing of waste

An old blanket or sheet for the backseat of your car

Old sheets to cover bedding and furniture at your destination

Dog bed

Treats and toys

Brush or comb

Moist towelettes to wipe off paws

Old towels, carpet cleaner, disinfectant spray, and trash bags for accidents

Window shades to deflect direct sunlight and reduce heat

Spray bottle with clean water

A mop-up towel, paper towels, or newspapers

From soft mesh carriers to canine flotation vests to doggy lunch boxes, Trips With Pets has unique companion-animal travel gear, treats, and novelty items to help ensure that your dog will be happy and safe while traveling across town or across the country.