Traveling With Your Puppy

Are you and your puppy ready to take to the road?  Travelling with a pet can be exciting, but it also takes careful planning and preparation.

Getting Ready

That first trip can be daunting, for you and for him.  The best thing you can do for your puppy is be prepared. Bring his bowls, leash, toys, crate, medicines, and grooming equipment, as well as his regular food supply. Identification is also important. Make sure he wears an ID tag with his name, your name, and all your contact information on it.  Some pet owners also travel with a colour photo to use as an identification tool if their companion strays.

Tip: don’t feed your puppy for at least 3 hours before the trip. It’s also a good idea to take him for a walk just before leaving.

Hitting the Road

Using a carrier in the backseat is the safest way for your puppy to travel by car.  If he’s too big or your car lacks space for a carrier, try a restraining harness.  Just don’t use a leash! If the car stops short, a leash could choke or injure your puppy.  You should also avoid leaving him in a closed car, particularly on a hot day, to prevent overheating.

Air Travel
 
The less time your puppy spends cooped up, the better. Book “off peak” flights to avoid delays, and plan as few transfers as possible.  Also aim to book your flight well in advance, as most airlines can accommodate only a limited number of pets.

Once you take to the skies, your puppy will either fly in the cabin with you or as checked baggage.  How he travels will depend on the size of his crate and the space available on board. Either way, be sure to label his crate properly, make it comfortable, and attach a water cup. 

And don’t forget! You’ll need to bring all your puppy’s heath and rabies certificates on international flights. These documents are required to cross most international borders.

Boarding

If you decide not to take your dog along, choose a boarding facility with care. Ask your veterinarian to recommend a reputable place, or get recommendations from friends who have boarded animals in the past.