Whether you’re heading out on a road trip, flying across the country, or planning a weekend getaway, bringing your dog along can make the journey even more rewarding. After all, they’re part of the family – why leave them behind? Traveling with your dog can deepen your bond and give you peace of mind knowing they’re safe by your side instead of at home or in a kennel.
But let’s be honest: hitting the road with a furry companion takes more than just tossing a leash in the backseat. From safety preparations to finding pet-friendly accommodations, there are a few extra steps that can make your trip smoother for both of you. In this post, we’ll cover everything you need to know to make traveling with your dog safe, low-stress, and genuinely enjoyable, no matter where you’re headed.
Preparing Your Dog for Travel
A little preparation goes a long way when it comes to traveling with your dog. Whether you’re planning a quick weekend trip or a longer vacation, setting your pup up for success starts before you even leave the house.
Schedule a Vet Visit
Before any big trip, it’s smart to check in with your veterinarian. Make sure your dog is up to date on vaccinations, flea/tick prevention, and heartworm medication. If you’re crossing international borders, ask if a health certificate or proof of rabies vaccination is required. If your dog gets anxious or car sick, your vet may also recommend medications or calming supplements.
Check Their ID
Double-check that your dog’s collar has an ID tag with your current phone number. Microchipping is a smart backup in case the collar comes off. If your dog is already microchipped, make sure your contact info is registered and up to date.
Practice Makes Perfect
If your dog isn’t used to car rides, crates, or being in new places, give them some practice before the big day. Take short drives, introduce the travel crate at home, and gradually expose them to new environments. A well-socialized dog will feel more confident and less stressed on the road. Try visiting local parks, restaurants that welcome dogs, and friends.
Pack Their Essentials
Dogs may not need a suitcase, but they do have travel must-haves. Here’s a quick checklist:
- Food and treats (plus a little extra, just in case)
- Collapsible bowls for food and water
- Leash and harness
- Waste bags
- Any medications or supplements
- Crate or car safety harness
- A bed or blanket that smells like home
- Favorite toys or chews
- Vaccination records and vet contact info
- Pet first-aid kit
Being prepared means fewer surprises and a more relaxed experience for both of you.
Hitting the Road (or Sky)
How you get to your destination plays a big role in your dog’s comfort and safety. Whether you’re driving, flying, or taking a train, each mode of transportation comes with its own set of considerations. Here’s what to keep in mind:
Traveling by Car
For most dogs, car travel is the easiest and most flexible option. You can stop for breaks, keep an eye on your pup, and maintain a comfortable temperature. To keep your dog safe:
- Use a crash-tested crate or a safety harness that attaches to the seatbelt.
- Avoid feeding large meals right before the trip to help prevent motion sickness.
- Plan for regular potty breaks and short walks to release energy.
- Never leave your dog alone in a parked car – temperatures can become dangerous quickly, even with the windows cracked.
Flying with Your Dog
Air travel requires more planning and isn’t ideal for every pet. If you’re flying:
- Check the airline’s pet policy carefully. Some allow small dogs in the cabin; others only permit dogs to travel as cargo.
- Choose direct flights when possible to minimize stress and handling.
- Get your dog used to their travel crate well before the trip. It should be well-ventilated and large enough for them to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably.
- Have all required documents ready: health certificate, vaccination records, and proof of rabies vaccination.
- Label the crate clearly with your contact information and your dog’s name.
Train or Bus Travel
Some regional trains and buses allow dogs, especially if they’re small enough to travel in a carrier. Amtrak, for example, permits small dogs on certain routes. Always check ahead:
- Confirm size and weight limits, fees, and carrier requirements.
- Practice crate time if your dog isn’t already used to being in an enclosed space.
- Bring quiet toys or chews to help keep them calm in a shared public space.
Choosing the right way to travel can make all the difference in how smooth your journey feels, for both you and your four-legged co-pilot.
Where to Stay: Finding Dog-Friendly Accommodations
After a long day of travel, the last thing you want is to arrive at your hotel and find out your dog isn’t welcome. A little research ahead of time can ensure a smooth check-in and a comfortable stay for you and your pup.
Dedicated Pet-Friendly Travel Sites:
- BringFido: This is one of the most comprehensive resources. It allows you to search for pet-friendly hotels, vacation rentals, bed & breakfasts, and campgrounds worldwide. They also include information on dog parks, hiking trails, pet-friendly restaurants, and even events. You can filter by pet policy (e.g., no pet fee, large dogs allowed, multiple pets allowed).
- Go Pet Friendly: Great for planning road trips, this site helps you find pet-friendly hotels, campgrounds, restaurants, and services along your route. They cover locations in the United States and Canada and offer destination guides.
- TripsWithPets: Similar to Go Pet Friendly, this site helps you identify pet-friendly places to stay and also lists hotel chains with consistent pet policies. You can even book pet-friendly car rentals through their site.
- Dog Friendly: While also offering lodging, Dog Friendly stands out for its focus on dog-friendly activities beyond just staying in a hotel. You can find unique experiences like dog-friendly wineries, aquariums, and even baseball games.
Major Travel Booking Sites with Pet-Friendly Filters:
Many popular travel booking sites now have robust filters for pet-friendly accommodations. These are good options if you’re already familiar with their platforms:
- Booking.com: Has a dedicated “pet-friendly hotels” section and a filter to easily find accommodations that welcome pets.
- Expedia.com: You can filter your hotel or vacation rental search results to show only pet-friendly options.
- Airbnb: Offers a “Pet-friendly” filter under their “More filters” section, making it easy to find homes that welcome dogs (and other pets).
- Vrbo: Similar to Airbnb, Vrbo allows you to filter for pet-friendly vacation rentals, including cabins, beach houses, and condos.
Hotel Chains Known for Being Pet-Friendly:
While not individual websites for finding accommodations, it’s helpful to know which hotel chains generally have pet-friendly policies, as their own websites will allow you to book directly:
- Hilton (various brands like Homewood Suites, Home2 Suites, Hampton by Hilton, Tru by Hilton, etc.): Many Hilton brands are very pet-friendly, though fees and specific policies can vary by individual hotel. Their website has a dedicated “Pet-Friendly Hotels” section.
- Extended Stay America: Generally allows up to two pets per suite, with specific height and length restrictions and a non-refundable cleaning fee.
- Red Roof: All Red Roof locations are pet-friendly, and most allow one dog or cat to stay free.
- Motel 6: All Motel 6 locations are pet-friendly with no pet fee and no weight limits, allowing two pets per room.
- Best Western: Over 1,600 Best Western properties are pet-friendly, typically allowing up to two dogs with potential daily fees and a refundable deposit.
- Kimpton Hotels: Known for being very pet-friendly, often with no size or weight restrictions, and offering pet amenities like beds, bowls, and treats.
Tips for Booking Dog-Friendly Accommodations:
- Always double-check the pet policy: Even if a website lists a place as “pet-friendly,” specific rules regarding pet size, breed restrictions, number of pets, and fees can vary. It’s always best to confirm directly with the accommodation before booking.
- Look for details on pet amenities: Some places go above and beyond with amenities like dog beds, food bowls, and designated pet relief areas.
- Read reviews: Other travelers’ reviews can provide valuable insights into how truly pet-friendly a place is and any potential issues.
- Consider vacation rentals for more space: If you have a larger dog or multiple dogs, a vacation rental (like those found on Airbnb or Vrbo) might offer more space and a private yard compared to a hotel room.
Keeping Your Dog Safe and Comfortable on the Go
Once you’ve hit the road (or landed at your destination), it’s all about making sure your dog stays safe, healthy, and as stress-free as possible. Travel can be exciting, but it also disrupts routines, so a little mindfulness goes a long way.
Keep Hydration and Nutrition on Track
Travel can throw off your dog’s eating and drinking habits. Encourage them to drink water often, especially if you’re traveling in warm weather or at higher altitudes. Keep a collapsible bowl and fresh water handy at all times.
Stick to your dog’s regular food and feeding schedule as much as possible. Switching food or offering too many unfamiliar treats can lead to an upset stomach (not fun on the road).
Be Mindful of the Weather
Dogs can overheat quickly, especially in hot cars, on pavement, or during high-energy play. Always test surfaces with your hand before walking your dog, and avoid the hottest parts of the day. In colder climates, pack a dog jacket or booties for warmth and traction.
Never assume a quick stop means it’s safe to leave your dog in the car—even a few minutes can be dangerous in extreme temperatures.
Practice Good Dog Etiquette
Being in new places around strangers and other pets can be overstimulating. Keep your dog leashed, stay alert to their body language, and maintain distance from other animals if needed. Not every dog wants to socialize, and that’s okay.
Clean up after your dog every time, and respect posted rules in parks, rest areas, and public spaces. A little courtesy goes a long way toward keeping places dog-friendly.
When Things Don’t Go as Planned: Handling Emergencies on the Road
Even with the best planning, unexpected situations can happen while traveling. Whether it’s a minor mishap or a more serious emergency, being prepared can help you stay calm and act quickly.
Know Where to Find a Vet
Before you arrive at your destination – or as soon as you check in – take a few minutes to look up the nearest veterinary clinics and emergency animal hospitals. Apps like VetFinder, Google Maps, or even Yelp can help you identify nearby options with reviews, hours, and contact info.
Tip: Save at least one nearby vet’s number and address in your phone, just in case you lose service or need to act quickly.
Have an Emergency Kit Ready
Pack a small pet-specific first-aid kit that includes:
- Gauze, antiseptic wipes, and bandages
- Tweezers (for ticks or splinters)
- Hydrogen peroxide (only if directed by a vet for vomiting)
- Your dog’s medications
- Copies of vaccination records and vet contact info
- A muzzle or towel (injured dogs may bite even if they’re normally calm)
This kit can help you handle minor injuries or stabilize your dog until you can get professional help.
If Your Dog Gets Lost
It’s every dog owner’s nightmare—but quick action makes a huge difference. If your dog goes missing:
- Alert local shelters, vet offices, and animal control right away.
- Use social media and local lost pet groups – include clear photos and your contact info.
- Notify your microchip registry and make sure your contact info is up to date.
- Walk and drive around the area, calling your dog’s name and leaving scent items (like a shirt or their bed) where they were last seen.
Having a recent photo of your dog on your phone is also a must—it helps others know exactly who they’re looking for.
Stay Calm and Flexible
Travel can bring surprises, from minor delays to last-minute plan changes. Dogs pick up on our emotions, so staying calm and flexible helps them stay relaxed, too. If your dog seems overwhelmed or stressed, take a break, keep things low-key, and adjust your schedule if needed.
Adventures Are Better with Your Dog by Your Side
Traveling with your dog takes a bit more planning, but the memories you’ll make together are well worth the effort. With the right preparation, safe travel practices, and a flexible mindset, you can turn any trip into a rewarding experience for both you and your pup.
