Pet Travel Checklist
Table of Contents
Before you travel
Ensure your pet is in good physical health before you travel.
Consult with your veterinarian.
Check proper pet vaccinations.
Update pet health certificate.
Bring a copy of your dog's health record.
Make sure identification collar tags, or micro chip ID specify current information.
If traveling abroad, contact the consulate of your destination and ask their requirements for your pet to enter the country.
If traveling abroad, ensure you have a Passport for Companion Animal
Consider using a pet carrier company
Traveling by Car
Takie your pet on shorter trips before traveling.
Feed your pet lightly before beginning your trip.
It is safer for you and safer for your pet if he or she is confined to pet travel cage or crate.
Secure carriers with a seat belt or bungee cords.
Always travel with a leash.
Do not allow pets to hang out windows.
Plan frequent rest stops during a car ride.
Keep to food schedules.
Bring fresh water and food.
Bring along whatever your pet is accustomed to, and what smells like "home".
Never leave your pet in a parked car.
Traveling by Air
Check with your air carrier's website for specific details.
Make sure to make a reservation for your pet.
Always try to book non-stop flights.
If the animal is traveling in the cargo hold, be sure to label the crate with a photo of your pet on top of the crate.
Never tranquilize.
Hotel Stay
Locate a pet friendly hotel.
Call in advance to check any restrictions.
Keep your pet on a leash.
Check for hotel pet sitters or daycare centers.
Leave the hotel staff an emergency contact number to reach you.
Be courteous to hotel guests about your dog's room behavior.
Report and pay promptly for any pet caused damage.
Download or Print this Pet Travel Checklist
Get a printable version of this checklist in your preferred format: PDF, Word, Excel, or print directly from your browser.
Who it's for
This Pet Travel Checklist is for anyone who wants a simple, practical way to get things done without missing steps.
- Avoid forgetting - keep all your Pet Travel essentials in one place (external memory)
- Save time - start from a proven Pet Travel structure instead of a blank page
- Stay on track - track progress, come back later, and keep momentum
- Coordinate with others - share the list and divide responsibilities
- Learn the process - follow the steps in a sensible order, even if it's your first time
How to use it
How to use this Pet Travel Checklist
- Save Pet Travel Checklist to your free Checklist account so your progress is saved and synced across devices.
- Customize it in the app: remove anything that does not apply, then add your own details for Pet Travel (dates, sizes, addresses, notes).
- If others are involved, invite them to collaborate and divide responsibilities.
- Work through the list: check items off as you go, and set reminders for time-sensitive steps.