How to Do Something Your Don Know: How to Travel Safely With Dogs

For many people, boarding their pet dog while they travel just isn't an option. Whatever your reasons, you can safely bring your canine companion with you on planes and in the car. You may also be able to carry them along on certain trains and ferries. To keep your pet safe while traveling, make sure to pick a form of transportation that allows dogs. Try to get them used to the sounds and the movements of travel before you leave. On the day of departure, make sure they have food, water, and any comfort items they need. With a bit of planning, you can safely take your dog with you many places.

EditSteps

EditFlying With Your Dog

Check to make sure your dog should be flying. Not all dogs can or should be on any flight. Older dogs and very young puppies generally shouldn’t be checked. Likewise, dogs with severe or chronic medical or behavioral issues may be distressed if they fly at all. Think about whether it makes sense to bring your dog on a flight. Other factors to consider may include:^[1]
- Your dog’s breed. Some airlines don’t allow bully breeds like pit bulls and American bulldogs as a matter of policy.
- Your dog’s temper. Otherwise healthy dogs who get anxious around strangers or who have severe separation anxiety aren’t great candidates for air travel.
- The shape of your dog's face. Dogs with flat faces, like bulldogs, boxers, and pugs, should not fly in the cargo hold of a plane. Some airlines may allow you to bring your dog into the cabin, but do so at your own risk.
Book your ticket on a pet-friendly airline. Not all airlines are pet-friendly, and those that are have different rules and regulations regarding how dogs can travel. Before you book, check the airline’s pet policy to make sure they allow dogs on flights. When you book your ticket, don’t forget to call the airline and let them know you will be flying with a dog.^[2]
- Most airlines charge a fee for you to bring a dog. The fee varies depending on the airline and whether your dog will travel in the cabin or in the baggage hold.
Check the airline's policy for in-cabin pet travel. If the dog is small enough, it may be able to travel in the cabin of your airplane under the seat in front of you. Otherwise, you'll need to check your dog so it can travel in the baggage compartment. Check with your airline to find out their specific size requirements.^[3]
- Some airlines may also restrict the number of dogs that a single passenger can bring onto the plane.
Get a pet carrier that meets the airline’s guidelines. Airlines require that your dog stays in a carrier while it’s on the plane. If your dog will be under the seat, the carrier must be small enough to fit in the allotted space, but large enough that your dog can stand, sit, and turn around. Checked carriers can be larger, and must be made of a durable, hard-sided material such as plastic. They must also be ventilated.^[4]
- Different airlines have different policies about the exact size and materials for pet carriers. Check online or call your airline if you are unsure about their requirements.
- Checked carriers must also have a water and food bowl clipped to the front grate. This lets airport staff care for your pet without having to open the carrier or handle it.
Carry vet documentation. Depending on where you're traveling, you may have to provide a veterinary certificate to prove the dog is in good health. You may also need to provide its immunization records. If you are checking your pet, you will likely need to tape a copy of this certificate to your dog’s carrier, regardless of destination.^[5]
- If your dog does need a vaccine or booster, remember that it needs 30 days for the vaccine to have taken action. Try to schedule any new shots or treatments for around 35-45 days before your trip.
- Always check with your destination to see if they have any other requirements for bringing a dog into that country.

EditDriving With Your Dog

Do a short trial trip to see if your dog likes drives. Some dogs love the sights and sounds of going for a drive. Others get nervous, claustrophobic, and/or motion sick. If your dog has never traveled in the car before, try taking a 10-15 minute drive with them to see how they react.^[6]
- Have at least one other person in the car aside from the driver. They can help calm the dog if it panics so that driver does not get distracted.
- Bring extra towels with you to prepare for the potential that your dog may get carsick.
Dog-proof your car. Before you pack up your pet, make sure your car is safe for your dog. Turn off all power window control so that they can’t accidentally step on them. Remove any old food wrappers, coins, or anything else your dog could chew or swallow. Make sure your climate control system is functional to keep your dog comfortable during the trip.^[7]
Use a pet carrier or restraint that is latched to the seat. Letting your dog roam freely in the car could be a distraction and a hazard. Try to keep your furry friend secure in the back seat. Use a carrier or a restraint such as a car harness or doggy car seat to keep your dogs safe and secure.^[8]
- If you are planning on using a carrier, look for one that is crash-rated, and buckle it to the seat.^[9]
- If you are using a harness or car seat, look for one that is specifically designed to clip to the seats or seat belts of your car.
Take breaks frequently while you drive. If you’re going on a longer trip, make sure to take breaks every 2-3 hours. Pull over to let your dog get out of the car, stretch their legs, take a bathroom break, and get some food and water.^[10]
- Remember that you shouldn’t push your dog to keep going during long drives. Just because you can handle 10-12 hour drives doesn’t mean your dog should. Prepare to take a bit longer during your trip for your dog’s safety and comfort.

EditTaking Your Dog on Boats and Trains

Check with the train or boat line to see if pets are allowed. Some train and ferry lines allow pets. Generally speaking, though, there are greater restrictions for bringing pets on boats and trains than on planes. Talk to your carrier well in advance of your travel to verify their pet policy. Ask specifically about items like:^[11]
- Breed restrictions
- Carrier requirements and restrictions
- When and where you’ll be able to relieve your pet
- If your pet will need to be stored with baggage and cargo
Ask your cruise line about kennel services. Most cruise lines do not allow you to bring non-service animals onboard. Some, however, offer kennel services. Call your cruise line to find out if they have a kennel. If so, be sure to book your dog with them well in advance.^[12]
- Traveling in a ship’s kennel may be stressful for your dog, so be sure to visit them frequently. The more you are able to interact with and comfort them, the more at ease they will feel.
- Be sure to pack your dog’s regular food and treats for use at the kennel. If you don’t they will be fed the kennel’s standard food, which may upset their stomachs.
Let your dog take breaks as often as you can. You won’t have the same control over a ship or train schedule that you will over a car. Still, it is important to let your dog take bathroom breaks and stretch their legs as much as you can. Talk to an employee about the scheduled stops to plan breaks for your dog.^[13]

EditPacking for your Dog

Bring food, water, and comfort items for your pup. Just like you and your traveling companions will have bags, your dog should have a bag, too. Make sure you have enough food for the duration of your trip. If you're traveling by car, keep some water and bowls in the car for breaks in between stops. You should also remember to bring things like:^[14]
- Toys
- Treats
- A dog blanket
- Towels to clean up after your dog
- Plastic bag for cleaning up after bathroom breaks
- Your pet’s immunization records
Take enough medication to last your dog for the whole trip. If your dog is on medication, be sure to bring it. Pack a few extra doses in case you are delayed. Keep the medication safe and dry while traveling.^[15]
- Ask your vet if your dog needs any new vaccinations or anti-parasite medications before you reach your destination.
Make sure that the dog has a collar and ID tag. If your dog escapes while you travel, it's important that it can find its way back to you. Consider microchipping your dog before you leave. Always keep the dog's collar on while traveling.