The Well-Prepared Pet: Your Pre-Travel Sanity Checklist

A calm pet owner often leads to a calm pet. The key to your own peace of mind when travelling with your animal is a thorough pre-travel checklist. This isn’t just about packing; it’s about foreseeing challenges and preparing solutions, ensuring a smooth journey for everyone.
Your first checklist item: Vet Visit. Schedule a check-up to ensure your pet is fit for travel. This is the time to get any required health certificates, update vaccinations, and discuss options for motion sickness or anxiety if your pet is prone to them. Get a copy of their entire health record to take with you.
Next, gear up. This means investing in a high-quality carrier that meets transport regulations and is comfortable for your pet. It also means updating their identification. Is their microchip information current? Does their collar tag have your mobile number? A temporary tag with your travel address is also a smart addition.
Finally, the packing list. Create a specific list for your pet: food (enough for the trip plus extra), water from home (to avoid upset stomachs), collapsible bowls, medication, a pet first-aid kit, grooming wipes, poop bags, their favourite toy, and a comforting blanket. Checking these items off will give you the confidence that you’re ready for anything.