Whether you’re heading out on a weekend camping trip or taking a trip across the country with your pet, it’s important to plan ahead. Travelling can be an exciting experience for both pets and their guardians, but it can also introduce new environments, routines and potential risks. Taking the time to prepare before you leave can help keep your pet safe and comfortable throughout the trip.
Is Travel the Right Choice for Your Pet?
Before making travel plans, consider whether bringing your pet is truly in their best interest. While many animals enjoy new experiences with their caregivers, some may find travel overwhelming or stressful.
Some pets may be better off staying at home with a trusted caretaker, especially:
- Young animals still adjusting to routines
- Senior pets with reduced mobility
- Pets with ongoing medical conditions
- Animals recovering from illness, injury, or surgery
- Animals who find travel or new environments stressful
If you’re unsure, speak with your veterinarian before travelling. Veterinarians can help confirm whether your pet is fit for travel and identify any precautions needed. Your veterinarian can also advise on vaccinations, medications, and destination-specific health risks.
What to Pack for Your Pet
A well-packed travel kit helps you handle both expected and unexpected situations.
Make sure you bring:
- Collar with identification tags
- Microchip and license information
- Regular food and treats
- Water and portable bowls
- Leash, harness, or carrier
- Waste bags or litter supplies
- Any required medications
- Favourite toys or comfort items
- Vaccination and medical records
- Contact information for your regular veterinarian
Travelling by Motor Vehicle
Road trips are a common way to travel with pets, but proper preparation and in-vehicle safety are essential to keep your pet secure and comfortable throughout the trip.
Before Driving
A walk or play session before travelling can help your pet burn off energy and settle more calmly in the vehicle.
Keep Pets Safely Secured
Pets should never travel unrestrained in a vehicle. Loose pets can become injured during sudden stops or collisions.
Use one of the following approved options:
- A well-ventilated crate or carrier that is appropriately sized for your pet
- A seatbelt harness designed for pets, which attaches to the vehicle’s seatbelts and helps keep your pet secure
While Driving
- Avoid letting pets stick their heads out of windows
- Ensure good ventilation and a comfortable temperature
- Make frequent stops for water, bathroom breaks, and exercise
- Always keep your pet secured when the vehicle is moving
- Never leave pets unattended in a parked vehicle
Watch for Signs of Stress or Motion Sickness
Some pets experience discomfort while travelling. Common signs include:
- Drooling
- Whining or restlessness
- Panting or shaking
- Vomiting
If these occur:
- Stop for breaks more frequently
- Offer fresh air and water
- Speak with your veterinarian about possible management options
Travelling by Plane
Air travel requires additional planning and preparation. If you are leaving the country make sure to review the requirements in advance. The Canadian Food Inspection Agency has information on travelling across the border with your pet.
Before Flying
- Check destination requirements for vaccinations or documentation
- Consult your vet to get specific recommendations on feeding, care and managing stress during travel, as well as any required vaccines and documentation
- Confirm your airline’s specific pet policies and restrictions. Some animal breeds are at greater risk of respiratory and heat stress (brachycephalic dogs) and require special consideration. Check with you veterinarian and the airline
- Ensure your pet meets all travel requirements
- Use an airline-approved kennel that allows your pet to stand, turn, and lie down comfortably
- Ensure your pet is familiar and comfortable with the crate in advance of the trip
- Label the carrier with your contact information
- Feed your pet 3-6 hours before departure to help prevent nausea or discomfort during travel (ask your veterinarian for a timeline appropriate to your pet)
- Provide water up until departure
Each airline may have different policies and requirements, so be sure to check in with them before you fly.
- For information from Air Canada, visit Air Canada pet transport information
- For information from WestJet, visit WestJet pet travel tips.
- For information from Canadian North, visit Canadian North: Travelling with Animals.
- For information from Porter Airlines, visit Porter Airlines: Travelling with Pets in the Aircraft Cabin
Camping With Pets
Camping can be a fun experience for pets and their guardians, but it requires extra responsibility.
Before Camping
- Ensure your dog reliably responds to basic commands (sit, stay, come, heel)
- Ensure your tent, trailer, or other sleeping space is large enough to comfortably accommodate both people and your pet
- Pack extra food, water, and shelter essentials
While Camping
- Most national and provincial parks welcome dogs (but some don’t so check to make sure the campground/any areas you want to visit are pet friendly)
- Keep your pet on a leash – dogs can disturb, injure or kill wildlife and some predators like bears, wolves and coyotes may see an unleashed dog as prey Interactions with wildlife and your dog are also dangerous for people
- Provide shade and protection from weather. Ensure the activities you choose to do are suitable for your dog
- Check regularly for ticks and environmental hazards
- Always clean up after your pet and follow all park and campground rules
Staying in Hotels
Many accommodations are pet-friendly, although policies vary.
When booking and staying at hotels:
- Confirm pet fees and restrictions in advance
- Bring familiar bedding or toys to reduce stress
- Keep pets leashed in shared spaces
- Don’t leave your pet unattended if they may become anxious or disruptive
For a list of pet friendly hotels across North America visit Pets Welcome.
Travelling with your pet can be a positive experience when it’s planned with their well-being in mind. Every animal is different, and taking the time to consider their individual needs, preparing ahead of time and prioritizing safety and comfort can help ensure a smoother, less stressful trip for both you and your pet.
If travelling isn’t the right choice for your pet, arranging for them to stay with a trusted caregiver or reputable boarding facility may be the safest and most comfortable option.