Traveling safely with your pet: The ultimate guide

Preparing to travel with your pet

Before hitting the road or taking to the skies, plan well in advance to ensure you’re fully prepared for traveling safely with your pet. Tasks to check off your pre-trip preparation list include:

• Research documentation and health care requirements — When planning to travel with your pet, particularly across state lines or internationally, a pet health certificate is often mandatory. These certificates serve as official documentation of your pet’s health status and are essential for ensuring compliance with local, national, and international regulations. Timing is important, as some states may require a health certificate issued by a licensed veterinarian within a certain time frame—typically within 10 days of your departure.

  Important Updates for Pets Entering the United States (CDC & APHIS)

  Starting August 1, 2024, dogs entering or returning to the United States must meet new CDC requirements. These rules depend on where your dog has been in the previous six months and where they received their rabies vaccination.

  Cats: There are no new CDC requirements for cats unless a cat arrives ill or deceased.

  USDA–APHIS Requirements: Pets may also need to meet state-specific health rules. Not all animals qualify as “pets,” so confirm your pet’s eligibility before traveling.

  Screwworm Requirements: Dogs arriving from countries where screwworm exists must have a certificate issued by a full-time official government veterinarian. The certificate must confirm that the dog was inspected within 5 days of travel and is free from screwworm, or was treated and cleared before departure.

  Documentation will be reviewed, and dogs may be inspected upon arrival at a U.S. port of entry. Always check airline policies as rules may change.

  International travel with pets involves more stringent regulations. Each country has its own pet importation requirements, which may include specific vaccinations, microchipping, parasite treatments, and quarantine periods. Carefully research the regulations regarding pet travel to ensure your furry friend can enjoy your destination. Countries institute these regulations to prevent disease spread.

• Visit your veterinarian — Visit your veterinarian to ensure that your pet is up-to-date on vaccinations and in good health, to refill prescriptions, and obtain any necessary travel documentation, such as a health certificate or vaccination records.
• Update identification — Consider microchipping your pet or update your contact information in the registration database. Additionally, ensure your pet is wearing a sturdy collar and identification tags with their name, your contact information, and any pertinent medical information.
• Practice traveling — If your pet isn’t accustomed to traveling, acclimate them gradually, starting with short car rides so they learn they don’t need to feel anxious or stressed.Pack the essentials — Create a travel kit for your pet that includes necessities, such as food, water, bowls, medication, leash, waste bags, grooming supplies, bedding, and familiar toys or comfort items. Don’t forget to pack a first-aid kit tailored to your pet’s needs.

Traveling by car with your pet

If you’re planning a road trip, these simple steps can make traveling safely with your pet by car much more comfortable:

• Securely restrain your pet — For your pet’s safety and yours, restraint while traveling in a car is essential. Options include using a secure pet carrier, a pet seat belt, or a barrier that confines them to a specific area of the vehicle.
• Plan for breaks — Regular breaks are crucial, especially during long journeys. Stop every few hours to allow your pet to stretch their legs, relieve themselves, and stay hydrated. Research pet-friendly rest stops or parks along your route ahead of time.
• Never leave your pet unattended — Even if the weather seems mild, never leave your pet alone in a parked car. Temperatures can quickly rise to dangerous levels, leading to heatstroke or death.

Traveling by air with your pet

If you’re taking to the skies with your pet, follow these airline travel safety tips:

• Research airline policies — Each airline has its own set of rules and regulations regarding pet travel. Ensure you know the specific requirements, including pet size restrictions, carrier dimensions, and any additional fees.
• Choose a pet-friendly airline — Opt for airlines that prioritize pet safety and comfort. Some airlines offer pet-friendly amenities, such as climate-controlled cargo holds or in-cabin pet accommodations for small dogs and cats.
• Proper crate training — If your pet will be traveling in the cargo hold, ensure they are comfortable and secure in an airline-approved pet crate. Gradually acclimate them to the crate in the weeks leading up to the trip to minimize stress.

In-transit care for your pet

During your travels, ensure your pet’s safety by:

• Monitoring your pet — Keep a close eye on your pet’s behavior during travel. Distress or discomfort signs, such as excessive panting, drooling, whining, or lethargy, should be addressed promptly.
• Keeping them hydrated and fed — Offer your pet small amounts of water and food throughout the journey to prevent dehydration and hunger. Don’t feed a large meal right before travel to reduce the risk of motion sickness.
• Providing comfort — Reassure and comfort your pet with soothing words, gentle pets, and familiar blankets or toys to help them feel secure in unfamiliar surroundings.

With preparation, patience, and the right tools, traveling safely with your pet becomes a smooth and memorable experience Whether you’re embarking on a cross-country road trip or jet-setting to an exotic locale, may your travels be filled with joy, adventure, and unforgettable shared moments. Before heading out on your trip, ensure your pet is in good health by scheduling an appointment with your AAHA-accredited veterinarian.

Editor’s note: This article was originally published in June 2024 and updated on November 25, 2025.