5 Travel Essentials Every Dog Owner Should Have

Whether you're going by plane, train, or automobile, traveling with your dog can be stressful. New places, unfamiliar smells, and changes in routine can all disrupt your regular rhythm, causing extra hassle. Travel anxiety can also affect canines, especially if they're not used to riding in a vehicle. Luckily, having some essentials on hand can make sure you and your dog have a pleasant trip — even if there might be minor mishaps!

A leash and collar or harness with your dog's current ID are a good place to start. They're the items you'll likely think of first when packing for travel. Some other items, however, are also important to have as part of your dog's travel kit. These include your pup's up-to-date info, a first-aid kit, the right carrier for travel, daily needed essentials, and some comforting extras. With these supplies, you'll be ready to go out and adventure.

While it doesn't have to be in a physical binder these days, having all of your dog's information one place can make things easier when you're rushing to get through an airline gate or dealing with hotel check-in. Many airlines require vaccine documents before you can board with your dog. Some may also require a health certificate for travel. You'll also want to update your canine's microchip details in the event your dog is lost. You can change any information on the microchip manufacturer's website.

Meet with your vet prior to your trip to get the information in order. They can give you updated vaccine documents as well as a record of any medications your dog takes. This is useful if you run out of their meds or need to visit an emergency vet on your trip to get a quicker refill. Lastly, you'll want to keep a list of important phone numbers, including the local vets or ER clinics in the areas you'll be traveling.

A canine-friendly first-aid kit is perfect to have on-hand In the event your dog has a minor injury while traveling. While it's best to take pups with more serious injuries, such as diarrhea, large wounds, or other illnesses, to a local vet or ER clinic a first-aid kid can help in a pinch.

Divide your first-aid kit into items such as bandaging, wound care, and medications. Gauze pads, adhesive tapes, and cotton swabs can be used to stop bleeding on minor injuries. Tweezers, scissors, gloves, and syringes can help with sanitizing cuts and scrapes or removing splinters and ticks. Styptic powder and saline washes can also be utilized to clean out cuts and stop bleeding fast.

It's also beneficial to include medications in your dog's first-aid kit, including over the counter varieties, such as antibiotic creams for cuts and scrapes. Benadryl and other allergy meds can also help reduce minor allergic reactions or soothe insect bites. Lastly, having extra of your dog's prescription medication can help if you lose their regular bottle or run out of their main supply. Make sure to check that medications are not expired before travel.

A travel carrier can keep your dog safe in the car or in the air. It's important to always check for any pet restrictions prior to travel. You should also get your dog used to using the carrier before you leave. In most cases, only small dogs or service dogs can travel in the cabin, so having one of the best airline-approved carriers handy can help keep your canine comfortable during the trip. You can also place a potty pad or travel water bowl in the carrier to protect against accidents.

Even if you won't be traveling by air, keeping your dog safe in the car can keep them from getting badly hurt if there's an accident. Dog car seats make it easy for small dogs to travel safely by hooking them securely into the car. Other travel harnesses attach to the seatbelt to keep your pup secure. If your canine isn't used to them, make sure you acclimate them gradually, starting with short car rides before the big trip. Lastly, make sure you never leave your pup unattended in a carrier or car harness.

It sounds like common sense to bring food and water for your dog on your trip, but they can easily be forgotten in the hustle before a vacation. Consider also packing waste bags and portable food and water bowls that can fold up or hook onto carriers. The PetAmi Dog Poop Bag Holder attaches to your leash for easy travel and also has an extra zipper to hide foldable bowls or treats. In addition, packing enough food for your dog's entire trip is important. Changing their diet abruptly can cause GI upset, including nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. 

If your pup is on a prescription diet or daily medication, you'll also want to pack those to avoid any emergencies. For dogs that are nervous travelers, your vet may also prescribe a calming aid or sedative for the trip. Along with food, water, and waste bags, packing a few pet wipes is also handy. They can easily fit into purses or suitcases for easy cleanup if your dog has an accident or causes a spill.

Comfort items can help reduce your dog's anxiety while traveling as well as when they reach their destination. Consider packing a few favorite toys, such as a tug toy, chew toy, or tennis ball, to play with. You may also want to see if your destination offers any pet perks, such as complementary treats or toys that can help increase comfort. A high-reward treat can get stuffed into puzzle toys for extra fun and distraction.

Old clothes can double as both an anxiety comfort item for dogs and a comfortable thing to snuggle during travel. Easy-to-clean bedding can also provide extra comfort without being a hassle if your pup makes a mess. The BurgeonNest Dog Car Seat is a great double-duty item that also works as a comfortable pet bed.