Quick summary
- Use a secure carrier or restraint.
- Carry water, records and familiar essentials.
- Never leave a pet alone in a parked vehicle.
Practise before the trip
Let your pet explore the carrier or restraint at home, then take short journeys. Pair calm travel with praise and familiar bedding.
Pack the essentials
Bring clean water, bowls, regular food, waste supplies, identification, vaccination records and any veterinarian-prescribed medicine in its original packaging.
Travel-day comfort
Keep the vehicle ventilated, stop safely for water and toilet breaks, and avoid a large meal immediately before travel if your veterinarian recommends it.
What to do
- Secure the pet before moving
- Plan shaded stops
- Check destination pet rules
What not to do
- Never use a hot parked vehicle
- Do not allow heads out of windows
- Do not sedate without veterinary direction
When to see a vet
This guide supports everyday care and does not replace an examination or diagnosis.
- Repeated vomiting
- Breathing difficulty or collapse
- Severe distress that does not settle