Whether it is a trip to the vet or a weekend away, a little preparation makes travelling with your pet safer and less stressful. Use this checklist before you set off.
Before you go
- Check your pet’s ID tag and microchip details are up to date.
- If you are travelling further afield, check any vaccination or documentation requirements well in advance.
- Get your pet used to their carrier or car harness with short practice trips.
Pack the essentials
- Food, treats and a collapsible bowl
- Fresh water for the journey
- Lead, harness and poop bags
- A familiar blanket or toy
- Any medication, plus your vet’s contact details
On the journey
Secure your pet with a well-ventilated carrier or a car harness — never let them roam free in a moving vehicle. Plan regular breaks for water and toilet stops on longer trips, and never leave a pet alone in a parked car, especially in warm weather.
When you arrive
Give your pet time to explore their new surroundings calmly, set up their bed and bowls straight away, and stick to their usual feeding routine as much as possible.