Traveling with your dog is a fantastic way to create lasting memories and strengthen your bond! Whether you're planning an adventure near or far, being well-prepared ensures both you and your dog enjoy every moment. Before you hit the road, it’s essential to make sure you have everything your dog might need.
While the specifics of your trip may vary depending on your destination, some essentials are a must-have no matter where you're headed. To help you get ready, we’ve put together a packing list of everything you should consider bringing when traveling with your dog.
What to Do:
- Make dog friendly travel arrangements.
- Acclimate your dog to traveling by starting with shorter trips and slowly increasing the travel time.
- Keep up to date with dog vaccinations
- Get your dog’s health certificate from your vet.
- Confirm copy of dog’s shot record is current.
- Ensure sufficient supply of prescription meds.
- Identify a good local vet and emergency vet.
- Plan rest stops and exercise breaks.
- Follow pet-friendly etiquette.
- Get temporary ID tag with local address and phone number.
- If you are traveling on a plane, look up airlines pet policy.
- Find pet relief areas in airports if you have layovers.
What to Bring:
Dog Care
- Food
- Treats
- Collapsible bowls
- Toys
- Grooming supplies (Brush, comb, wipes)
- Dog clothes (sweater, jacket, raincoat, winter coat, shoes, or boots)
- Life jacket (if you plan to be on water)
Supplies
- Travel Bed
- Travel carrier
- Blanket
- Old towels
- Leash, harness, collar
- Car seatbelt harness
- Seat covers
- Doggy backpack
- Backpack to hold gear while hiking
- Flashlight for dog’s collar
- Safety vest and dog headlight
- Battery powered fan
- Poop bags
- Wipes
- Paper towels
- Lint roller
- Absorbent mats
Medical/Emergency
- Medication for your dog
- Paperwork (health certificate, current shot record)
- Recent photo of your dog in case you get separated.
- Microchip number and phone number of monitoring company
- Secure collar with ID tag
First Aid Kit
- Canine first aid manual
- Gauze
- Nonstick bandages
- Adhesive tape
- Cotton balls
- Hydrogen peroxide
- Antibiotic spray or ointment
- Digital thermometer
- Scissors
- Tweezers
- Magnifying glass
- Nail clippers
- Eye and ear drops
- Balm for sore paws
- Calming solutions (check with your vet first for right product and dosage)
This packing list may not cover every detail specific to your trip, but it’s a great starting point. Make sure to consider your destination’s climate, whether you'll be camping or staying in a pet-friendly hotel, and the length of your stay. Preparing in advance will help you avoid the stress of missing essential items while you're on the road. Plan for any situation that might arise, but most importantly, get ready to have a fantastic time with your dog! It’s an opportunity to create new memories and enjoy shared adventures.
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