How to travel with a dog – expert insider tips

While studying at the Royal Veterinary College in London, Jamie Richardson, BVS, fell in love with black Labrador retriever named Ralph, and after finishing school, she was faced with a journey back to her native USA

“That wasn’t the only time I flew with him,” Richardson, who works as chief of staff at Small door Veterinary in New York’s West Village, he says. “Eventually I moved to Hong Kong, adopted a Chihuahua named Freddie and then moved them both to Bermuda and now to New York City.”

In addition to domestic and international flights, Richardson often takes Ralph and Freddie on road trips when he visits his parents in upstate New York, a three-hour drive from home.

Here she offers guidance on how to travel with a dog on all the most popular modes of transport.

How to travel with a dog in the car

Take a trip with your dog can be a great way to travel, but many people wonder how to safely travel long distances with their dog in the car. First, make sure your dog is comfortable on car trips. If you currently only go to the vet and groomer in the car, try to create more positive associations for your dog (like going to the dog park and the pet store for treats).

Just like people, dogs can get car sick, which is why car travel can be a headache for some pet parents. “If your dog gets sick after a 30-minute trip, talk to your vet about medications that might help,” suggests Richardson. “Think about when you get car sick; you don’t want your pet to feel the same way.”

Consider keeping your dog locked in a travel suitcase or carrying a seat belt designed for dogs in carsshe adds. “And keep them well hydrated and comfortable by packing collapsible water containerplenty of fresh water and make sure you stop often.”

Be sure to make frequent stops on your route potty breaks and walking breaks to allow both you and your pup to stretch their legs. Look ahead hiking with pets tracks so you can get extra rest on those breaks.

How to travel by plane with a dog

It’s a good idea to check with your vet long before you buy a plane ticket for your dog, whether you’re traveling domestically or internationally. Keep in mind that airlines have different health and weight requirements, so even if your dog is perfectly healthy, they may not be able to fly.

Most airlines will allow you to bring your dog on board if he or she is 20 pounds or less and is able to fit in a carrier under the seat in front of you while you are in flight. If your dog weighs more than 20 pounds (and usually 100 pounds or less) they may have to travel in the hold of the plane and be checked at the same time you check your bags, which always comes with a fee.

Not all airlines allow dogs in their cargo hold, as it can be dangerous for your pet. If it is not absolutely necessary to take your dog on your flight in this way, consider leaving them at home at a trusted home pet sitting or a local kennel where she will be cared for and cared for.

Before booking any flights with your dog, consider the best types of flights that will be most comfortable for your dog. Try to book overnight flights and exercise your dog during the day before your flight so he can sleep while on the plane and maintain his circadian rhythm. If your dog must travel with you in the hold, consider the time of year you are traveling and try to book in the months with milder weather conditions so they are not too hot or too cold and uncomfortable.

Service dogs it can also be taken on airplanes and must accompany the operator in the space in front of the operator’s seat and cannot block the passage or exit in case of emergency. If you’re taking a service dog on a plane, it’s a good idea to keep these rules in mind and choose a seat in advance that will allow your dog to be comfortable and safe on the flight.

Can you bring a dog on board?

Planning ahead always comes in handy when considering the best way to travel with your dog. If you are considering taking a ferry, contact the ferry company before arriving with your dog to make sure pets are allowed on board.

When it comes to cruise shipsmost cruise lines do not allow pets on board, with one exception service dogs (even emotional support dogs are often banned). It’s always best to call ahead and ask about specific rules and regulations before booking a cruise.

What about the train?

American Railway Company Amtrak allows small dogs on board as long as they are in a pet carrier and the dog and carrier do not weigh a total of 20 pounds. However, regulations may change depending on whether your Amtrak train crosses international borders.

Can you take a dog on a Rideshare?

For those who prefer to travel around town using the popular rideshare service, here are the most up-to-date rules and regulations regarding bringing your dog along for the ride.

Regardless of the service you prefer, it’s best to be safe and bring a suitable safety carrier for your dog to ride in (either a leash or to fasten if your dog is too big for the carrier) and be kind by bringing a seat blanket if your dog sheds.

Taxi

Traveling with dogs in a taxi can be a bit tricky. Your best bet is to call the taxi company ahead of time and ask about their specific pet policies. Some will allow small dogs in carriers, while others may require the dog to stay at home.

Uber

Uber has specificity pet friendly ride optionwhich can be requested with UberX by tapping the “tap to customize button” and swiping to a Pet Friendly Ride in the app. With this option, pet owners can bring one small animal on the ride, such as a dog or cat.

Lyft

Lyft leaves that up to the individual driver. The best thing to do is book a ride using the app, then call the driver while he’s on his way to you and ask if he’s willing to allow your dog in the car. Since cars are usually the driver’s personal vehicles, it will be at their discretion.

Ride parts and service dogs

Service dogs are always allowed on Uber and Lyft trips, whether it’s a pet-friendly trip or the driver’s preferences. Depending on federal and local laws in your area, your service animal may be able to accompany you at no additional cost.

Finding dog-friendly hotels and accommodations

These days, it’s common for pet parents to want to take their beloved pets wherever they go. Although pets are not allowed everywhere, a simple phone call to the hotel can answer any questions you may have about their pet policy.

The BringFido app is a great resource to find pet friendly hotels and accommodation, and most vacation rental companies (such as Airbnb and WILLOW) offer online filtering options that are helpful when choosing where to stay while traveling with your dog.

Additional travel tips for dog owners

Maintain a routine

Routine is key when traveling with a dog, says Richardson. “Pets thrive on a sense of routine, so try to stick to their home routine while you’re away by feeding them and taking them for walks at the same time as usual.”

Plan and prioritize meal and water breaks

Make sure you always have enough food and fresh water for your dog when you travel so that you don’t find yourself in trouble without the nutrients they need. A travel bag for dogs that has food packets, food and water bowls, a few toys, some treats and everything else your dog needs is super useful to have on hand.

Emergency plan

Make sure you have already researched pharmacies and veterinary clinics in your holiday destination and have pet poison helpline (855) 764-7661 or ASPCA Poison Control Center (888) 426-4435 in your phone contacts. If your local vet has a 24/7 emergency number, it wouldn’t hurt to have one for non-emergency questions to the vet who is most familiar with your dog’s health history. Get yourself a pet first aid kit (or make your own) and take it with you in the car or carry a bag just in case.

Identify your dog correctly

Have your dog microchipped if not already, and always attach Tag ID with your contact information on her collar so she can be easily found if she gets lost at the airport or runs away during one of your bathroom stops.