Pet Travel Made Easy: Tips for Stress-Free Adventures with Your Pet

Travelling with your pet can be a wonderful experience, whether you're heading off on a weekend getaway, a long road trip, or simply visiting family. With a little preparation, you can make the journey safer, calmer, and far more enjoyable for both you and your best mate.

Here are our to Vet Cross tips to help you travel confidently with your pet.

1. Pre-Travel Check-Ups

Before you set off, it's great idea to ensure your pet is fit and healthy for travel.
A quick visit to Vet Cross can:

• Confirm your pet is safe to travel  
• Update vaccinations if needed
• Provide parasite protection for fleas, ticks, and worms
• Discuss travel anxiety and options for calming support
• Check medications or prepare travel-suitable ones

If your pet has a chronic condition (like heart disease, diabetes, or arthritis), a tailored travel plan can make the journey much more comfortable.

2. Safe & Comfortable Car Travel

Keeping your pet secure is vital - for their safety and yours.
We recommend using:

• A crash-tested harness
• A secured crate or carrier
• A cat carrier with soft bedding for felines
• A non-slip mat or familiar blanket

Heat is one of the biggest risks in the Bundaberg region. Never leave your pet in the car unattended, even briefly. Temperatures can climb dangerously fast, even on cloudy days.

Break every 2-3 hours help your pet stretch, toilet, hydrate, and relax. Carry water, a bowl, and a favorite toy to keep them comfortable. 

3. Packing for Your Pet

A small travel kit can make all the difference. Include:

• Food and treats
• Water and bowl (collapsible bowls are perfect for travelling)
• leash and harness
• Bedding and toys
• Poo bags
• A towel (for sandy or muddy stops!)
• Any required medications
• A recent photo of your pet and a copy of their microchip number (helpful if they get lost)

4. Accommodation & Destination Prep

If you're staying somewhere new or unfamiliar, check ahead to ensure:

• It's truly pet-friendly
• There's a safe, enclosed outdoor space with shade
• Local beaches or parks allow pets
• You're aware of nearby emergency vets (just in case)

Bringing an item from home - like a blanket or toy - helps your pet feel settled in new surroundings.

5. Managing Travel Anxiety

Some pets love adventures - others find the car stressful. Signs of anxiety can include panting, shaking, drooling, or restlessness.
At Vet Cross, we can help with:

• Behavioral strategies
• Calming pheromones
• Mild natural supplements
• Prescription anxiety medications (if appropriate) 

A calm pet makes for a much smoother trip.

6. Pet Identification is Essential

Make sure your pet's microchip details are up to date before travelling.
We also recommend:

• A secure collar
• A tag with your contact details

This greatly increases the chances of a safe return if your pet gets lost in unfamiliar surroundings.

Enjoy the Journey!

Travelling with your pet can create beautiful memories - from beach walks to bushland retreats and everything in between. With a little planning and the right support, your furry friend can enjoy the adventure just as much as you do.

If you're preparing for a trip and want personalised advice, feel free to speak with the vet Cross team. We're always happy to help get your pet travel-ready.