Essential Tips for a Safe Travel Experience with your Dog

General

Traveling with your dog is an exciting adventure, but proper planning is key to a successful journey. Before you and your furry co-pilot take a flight, hop on a train, or set sail for dog-friendly destinations, it's essential to get acquainted with both global and local travel restrictions, as well as the varying policies of airlines and public transportation. To make sure you meet all the necessary requirements may take some time, so start your preparations early to make those tail-wagging dreams a reality and as comfortable for your pup as possible.

Please keep in mind that the information provided here serves as a helpful guide, but we strongly recommend that you conduct your own research and verify the latest regulations and requirements specific to your travel plans to ensure a trouble-free experience with your pup.

Traveling by Plane

General Tips & Etiquette

Following these tips can make the travel experience more safe and pleasant for yourself, your dog, and your fellow travelers

    • Visit your vet for a check-up, any necessary vaccinations, and a health certificate (if needed). The vet can also advise you on whether it is beneficial for your dog to take any medication (e.g. for anxiety).

    • Research and understand the specific policies of the airline you're flying with regarding pet travel. Each airline may have different requirements and restrictions.

    • Ensure that your dog is in an airline-approved pet carrier or crate. The carrier should be well-ventilated, secure, and appropriately sized for your dog.

    • Notify the airline in advance that you'll be traveling with your dog. Some airlines have limited space for pets in the cabin, so it's important to book early.

    • Ensure your dog has proper identification, including a securely fastened collar with an updated ID tag that includes your contact information. Additionally, consider using a microchip for permanent identification, which can be vital in case your pet becomes lost during the journey.

    • Ensure you have copies of your dog's vaccination and health records in case they are required by airline personnel.

    • It’s best to stop feeding your dog 4 - 6 hours before the flight. This practice can reduce the likelihood of your pet needing to relieve themselves during the flight and may also prevent motion sickness.

    • Engage in some physical activity with your dog. A good walk or play session can help them expend energy and be more relaxed during the flight. Make sure to provide ample time for them to relieve themselves before leaving for the airport.

    • If you anticipate that your dog may need to relieve itself during the journey, consider training them to use pee pads in a designated area. This can be especially useful during long flights or layovers when access to a pet relief area may be limited.

    • If possible, it's a great idea to test how your dog behaves on a shorter flight. This can help you assess your and your dog’s comfort and readiness for longer journeys.

    • Arrive early! This ensures you can respond to any unexpected issues or challenges that may come up.

    • Prepare for the security screening process. Remove your dog from the carrier if required and follow the instructions given by security personnel.

    • Keep your dog on a leash and harness when outside the carrier. This is for the safety of your pet and others in the airport.

    • Carry cleanup supplies, such as poop bags, to clean up after your dog in case they have to relieve themselves. Most airports have designated pet relief areas.

    • Ensure that your dog is well-behaved and calm. Excessive barking or disruptive behavior can be stressful for other passengers.

    • Be mindful of passengers with allergies. Try to maintain a distance from individuals who may be affected by your dog's presence.

    • Use designated pet relief areas and pet-friendly zones. Do not let your dog roam freely in non-designated areas.

    • Inform fellow passengers and airline staff if your dog is nervous or has any specific needs. This can help everyone be more understanding and accommodating.

    • Be patient and courteous to airport staff and other passengers. Traveling can be stressful, and a friendly attitude goes a long way.

    • Inform fellow passengers and airline staff if your dog is nervous or has any specific needs. This can help everyone be more understanding and accommodating.

    • Bring comfort items like a favorite toy or blanket to help keep your dog calm during the journey.

    • During the flight, be considerate of those sitting nearby. Keep your dog quiet and comfortable, and refrain from allowing them to roam the cabin.

    • Pack pee pads and/or dog diapers in your travel kit. These can be a lifesaver during long flights, layovers, or delays, providing a clean and discreet way for your dog to relieve themselves without inconveniencing other passengers or creating a mess inside the cabin.

  • Here’s a recommended list of items you should bring on your trip:

    • Airline-approved carrier

    • Muzzle (if required)

    • Health Certificate, medical records

    • Any medication your vet recommended to bring

    • Important contact information (your vet, emergency contact)

    • Pee pad / diapers

    • Poop bags

    • Water, Food, Treats (pack enough to last throughout your trip, in case your luggage is lost or delayed)

    • Collapsible bowls and/or portable water dispenser

    • Grooming products (wipes, brush, toothbrush & paste, etc.)

    • Leash, collar with id tag

    • Toys, blanket

    • Boots, sweaters, etc. (depending on the weather of the destination)

    • First Aid Kit

    Check out Ollie’s Favorites for concrete product recommendations.

Here are some good YouTube videos that cover the flying experience:

Information about Airlines

In-Cabin vs. Cargo Hold: The Safety Dilemma
Explore the pros and cons of in-cabin vs. cargo hold travel for your furry friend, along with alternative options.

  • Pros:

    • Your dog remains close, which can be reassuring for both you and your pet.

    • You can keep an eye on them throughout the flight.

    • In-cabin travel is often more comfortable for smaller dogs and those with health concerns.

    Cons:

    • Restrictions based on the airline's pet policy and cabin size may limit availability.

    • Your dog must be well-behaved and stay in an approved pet carrier during the flight.

    If your dog meets the airline's in-cabin requirements and you can accommodate them comfortably, it's usually the safest choice.

  • Pros:

    • Suitable for larger dogs or those that do not meet in-cabin requirements.

    Cons:

    • Dogs in the cargo hold may experience heightened stress and discomfort due to separation, deafening noise, turbulences, or manhandling during loading / unloading.

    • Limited access to your pet during the flight.

    • Certain airlines have restrictions or breed-specific bans for cargo travel.

    • US regulations mandate that pets should only travel in temperatures between 10 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit, but cargo-hold conditions can vary widely, leading to potential health risks.

    • Pets in their crates are often exposed to excessive heat while loading / unloading.

    • Cargo holds pose the risk that pets might get lost or misplaced.

    • Potential delays can be a significant concern, as pets may experience prolonged confinement and discomfort due to flight schedule changes or layovers.

  • If your dog doesn’t meet the airline’s requirements and your situation allows, you might consider alternatives to a commercial flight.

    Alternative transportation

    Pet-friendly Jet Charters

    Another option to travel with your dog is chartering a flight, and resources like this Facebook group can provide valuable information and support for such endeavors. Chartering a flight offers some distinct advantages, including the ability to have more control over the travel schedule and cabin environment, potentially reducing the stress on your dog.

    Below are some pros and cons of this option.

    Pros

    • Chartering a flight allows you to tailor the journey to your dog's specific needs and preferences, ensuring a more comfortable and less stressful experience.

    • You can bypass the hassles associated with commercial air travel, such as crowded terminals and security lines.

    • With fewer passengers on board, your dog may experience less stress, as there will be fewer distractions and less noise.

    • You have greater flexibility in choosing the departure and arrival times, making it easier to accommodate your dog's routine.

    Cons

    • Chartering a flight can be significantly more expensive than booking a commercial flight, making it less accessible for many travelers.

    • Private charters may not be available for all routes, limiting your destination options.

    • Planning and organizing a private charter requires more time and effort than booking a commercial flight.

    • You must ensure that your charter complies with all aviation and pet travel regulations, which can be complex.

    Pet Transport Services

    Pet transport services offer a dedicated solution for relocating your pet, whether by ground or air, serving as an alternative to major pet-friendly airlines.

    These services prioritize your pet's well-being, delivering personalized attention and experienced handlers to ensure a comfortable journey. They provide roomier and more controlled cargo conditions, reducing the risks associated with traditional airline travel.

    Pet transport services also offer valuable assistance with paperwork, simplifying the process of moving your beloved pet to a new location.

    Examples:

You’ll find a comprehensive checklist for traveling by plane (including printable pack list) to download in our Members Area. Log in, or sign up here.

Traveling by Car

  • Following these tips can make the travel experience more safe and pleasant for yourself and your dog.

    • Know the regulations at your destination (import restrictions, pet policies for hotels, tourist attractions and restaurants).

    • Visit your vet for a check-up, any necessary vaccinations, and a health certificate (if needed). The vet can also advise you on whether it is beneficial for your dog to take any medication (e.g. for anxiety or motion sickness).

    • Ensure that your dog is in a safe pet carrier or crate. The carrier should be well-ventilated, secure, and appropriately sized for your dog.

    • Ensure your dog has proper identification, including a securely fastened collar with an updated ID tag that includes your contact information. Additionally, consider using a microchip for permanent identification, which can be vital in case your pet becomes lost during the journey.

    • Ensure you have copies of your dog's vaccination and health records in case they are required for entering your destination location.

    • Engage in some physical activity with your dog. A good walk or play session can help them expend energy and be more relaxed during the ride. Make sure to provide ample time for them to relieve themselves before leaving.

    • It’s best to stop feeding your dog 4 - 6 hours before the trip. This practice can prevent motion sickness.

    • Take frequent potty stops and allow your dog to move.

    • If possible, it's a great idea to test how your dog behaves on shorter rides. This can help you assess your and your dog’s comfort and readiness for longer journeys.

    • Bring comfort items like a favorite toy or blanket to help keep your dog calm during the journey.

    • Bring a first aid kit in case of an emergency.

    • Make sure your dog has access to water at all times.

    • NEVER leave your dog alone in the car. Even on seemingly cool days or with the windows partially open, the temperature inside the car can quickly rise and potentially be life-threatening to your dog!

  • Here’s a recommended list of items you should bring on your trip:

    • Safe carrier, safety belt

    • Health Certificate, medical records (if required)

    • Any medication your vet recommended to bring

    • Important contact information (your vet, emergency contact)

    • Poop bags

    • Water, Food, Treats (pack enough to last throughout your trip

    • Collapsible bowls and/or portable water dispenser

    • Grooming products (wipes, brush, toothbrush & paste, etc.)

    • Leash, collar with id tag

    • Toys, blanket

    • Boots, sweaters, etc. (depending on the weather of the destination)

    • First Aid Kit

    Check out Ollie’s Favorites for concrete product recommendations.

You’ll find a comprehensive checklist for traveling by Car (including printable pack list) to download in our Members Area. Log in, or sign up here.

Other Transportation

  • Following these tips can make the travel experience more safe and pleasant for yourself and your dog.

    • Research and understand the specific policies of the transportation you're using regarding pet travel. Each transportation service may have different requirements and restrictions.

    • Know the regulations at your destination (import restrictions, pet policies for hotels, tourist attractions and restaurants).

    • Visit your vet for a check-up, any necessary vaccinations, and a health certificate (if needed). The vet can also advise you on whether it is beneficial for your dog to take any medication (e.g. for anxiety, sea sickness, or motion sickness).

    • Ensure that your dog is in a safe pet carrier or crate. The carrier should be well-ventilated, secure, and appropriately sized for your dog.

    • Ensure your dog has proper identification, including a securely fastened collar with an updated ID tag that includes your contact information. Additionally, consider using a microchip for permanent identification, which can be vital in case your pet becomes lost during the journey.

    • Ensure you have copies of your dog's vaccination and health records in case they are required for entering your destination location.

    • Engage in some physical activity with your dog. A good walk or play session can help them expend energy and be more relaxed during the trip. Make sure to provide ample time for them to relieve themselves before leaving.

    • It’s best to stop feeding your dog 4 - 6 hours before the trip. This practice can prevent motion sickness

    • If you anticipate that your dog may need to relieve itself during the journey, consider training them to use pee pads in a designated area. This can be especially useful during long trips when access to a pet relief area may be limited.

    • If possible, it's a great idea to test how your dog behaves on shorter rides. This can help you assess your and your dog’s comfort and readiness for longer journeys.

    • Bring comfort items like a favorite toy or blanket to help keep your dog calm during the journey.

    • Bring a first aid kit in case of an emergency.

    • Make sure your dog has access to water at all times.

    • Make sure the dog has access to shade at all times to avoid a heat stroke.

  • Resources

  • Public Transportation for Pets

  • Here’s a recommended list of items you should bring on your trip:

    • Safe carrier

    • Muzzle (if required)

    • Life Jacket

    • Health Certificate, medical records

    • Any medication your vet recommended to bring

    • Important contact information (your vet, emergency contact)

    • Pee pad / diapers

    • Poop bags

    • Water, Food, Treats (pack enough to last throughout your trip

    • Collapsible bowls and/or portable water dispenser

    • Grooming products (wipes, brush, toothbrush & paste, etc.)

    • Leash, collar with id tag

    • Pee pad / diapers

    • Toys, blanket

    • Boots, sweaters, etc. (depending on the weather of the destination)

    • First Aid Kit

    • SPF

    Check out Ollie’s Favorites for concrete product recommendations.

Import / Export Restrictions

Dog-Friendly Activities & Sightseeing

Please always check the latest regulations before booking.

Dog-friendly Activities

  • Spend a day at the Dog Beach

  • Go Surfing

  • Go Canoeing

  • Go Camping

  • Go Hiking

  • Visit a Winery

  • Check out a Baseball Game

  • Visit a dog-friendly park

  • Pamper your dog at a Pet Boutique or Spa

  • Visit a dog-friendly restaurant or bar

Sightseeing

  • Walking Tour

  • Take a Sightseeing Bus Tour

    • Hop On Hop Off Bus Tours (from their FAQs: “Some tours permit travelling with small and well-behaved dogs. We recommend checking your specific information as policy might vary in different cities.”)

    • CitySightseeing (from their FAQs: Small, well-behaved dogs are allowed depending on the city. Here is a list of some of those cities that permit dogs to hop on board: All UK cities, Barcelona (dogs must be in a portable kennel), Bergen, Berlin, Oslo, San Antonio, Santander (dogs must be in a portable kennel), Seville (dogs must be in a portable kennel). If you do not see a particular city on this list, please do not hesitate to contact us.”)

  • Boat Ride

    • City Experiences (from their FAQs: Dogs are allowed on Seadog Cruises in Chicago and select pet events in other ports.”)

  • Other

Additional Resources

You can find additional resources around traveling with your pup in our Members area. Please log in, or sign up here.