Travelling with a pet is easier when their comfort and safety are planned before you leave. First consider whether the trip suits your individual pet. A pet who is unwell, highly distressed by travel, or has a condition that could make transport difficult may need a different plan. A pre-travel conversation with your veterinarian can help you weigh up the options.
Plan before you pack
For an interstate or overseas trip, start by checking the rules that apply at your destination and to any return journey. Importing-country requirements can change and may involve permits, testing, treatments, examinations, isolation or particular documents. Provide the destination requirements in writing to the veterinarian preparing your pet for travel. Check airline requirements directly before booking too, as airlines and countries set their own conditions for pet travel.
Confirm that your pet’s microchip contact details are current and keep a recent photo and relevant records with you. If your pet has not been microchipped, ask about microchipping before travel. Identification helps if you become separated, but it is not a substitute for secure transport.
Make travel feel familiar and secure
Choose a carrier or restraint that suits your pet, the vehicle and the journey. A carrier should be secure and ventilated, remain stable in the vehicle, and allow the animal to stand, turn and lie down comfortably. For dogs, a properly fitted vehicle restraint or a securely positioned transport crate may reduce distraction and injury risk; cats should stay safely contained in a carrier. Never leave a pet unattended in a parked car, even in mild weather.
Help your pet form a positive association with their carrier well before departure. Leave it available at home with familiar bedding or a toy, then build up to short, calm practice trips. Pack your pet’s usual food, water, bowls, required medicines, a lead or harness where appropriate, waste bags, a towel, bedding and any species-specific toileting supplies. Keeping familiar items and a predictable routine can make an unfamiliar journey less stressful.
During a road trip
Keep pets safely restrained and the vehicle comfortably ventilated. Do not let a dog ride on the driver’s lap or put their head out of a moving window, and keep cats in their carrier during driving and stops. Plan safe opportunities for dogs to drink, toilet and stretch, using a collar, identification and lead before opening the door. Check your pet regularly for changes in comfort, behaviour, appetite or energy. If you are concerned, contact a local veterinarian rather than waiting until the journey ends.
Flying or travelling overseas
Air travel needs its own preparation. Confirm the airline’s current rules, approved container dimensions and whether your pet can travel on the proposed service. The container must give the animal enough room to stand, sit, turn and lie naturally; the airline’s specific requirements still apply. Do not rely on a previous trip or a generic online checklist for immigration, quarantine or airline requirements.
Frequently asked questions
Should I change my pet’s meals or give something to calm them?
Ask your veterinarian for individual advice before the trip, particularly if your pet has motion sickness, anxiety or a medical condition. Feeding and medication decisions depend on the pet and mode of travel, especially for flights. Do not try a new medicine or sedative on departure day unless your veterinarian has advised you.
When should I book a veterinary consultation?
Book early if you are travelling interstate or overseas, or if your pet has health, mobility or travel-anxiety concerns. Vets of Geelong is a family-owned veterinary group with four clinics and can help you arrange a consultation to discuss your pet’s individual needs. You can also contact our team or call one of our branches.