Holiday Travel Coming Up? Here’s How to Prep Your Pet Before You Go
As the weather cools and many of us prepare to travel or spend time away for the holidays and winter season, now is the perfect time to make sure your pets are ready, safe, and comfortable wherever they go. Whether your pet will be joining you on your winter travels or staying with a sitter, a few key steps can make the season stress-free for everyone.
Schedule a Pre-Travel Wellness Check
Before you leave, book a quick veterinary visit to ensure your pet is healthy and up to date on all vaccinations and parasite prevention. This is especially important if you’re traveling to a different climate or crossing state lines, as some destinations have specific health or vaccine requirements.
During this visit, we can also:
- Update prescriptions and refill regular medications
- Review vaccination and microchip information
- Discuss any travel-related health concerns or documentation your pet may need
Prepare Medications and Refills
If your pet takes medication for allergies, arthritis, or anxiety, be sure you have enough to last through your trip—plus a few extra days just in case. Ask us about calming aids or anti-nausea medications if your pet experiences travel anxiety or motion sickness.
Pack a Pet Travel Kit
Make sure you have all the essentials your furry friend needs for comfort and safety:
- Food and water (plus travel bowls)
- Favorite toys, bedding, and treats
- Collar and ID tags with current contact info
- A sturdy, well-fitted harness and leash
- Waste bags or litter supplies
- A pet first-aid kit
If you’re flying or traveling long distances, ensure your carrier or crate is airline-approved and properly labeled. Pets4Life offers a variety of airline-approved pet travel cases and pet “go bags” to cover all your pet’s needs.
Plan for Comfort & Anxiety
Travel can be stressful for pets. Keep routines as consistent as possible, bring familiar items that smell like home, and consider natural calming products or prescription anxiety medications if your pet struggles during car rides or flights. We can help you find the safest, most effective option for your pet.
Update Microchip & Identification Info
Before you go, double-check that your pet’s microchip registration and ID tags have your current phone number and address. A quick update can make all the difference if your pet becomes lost in an unfamiliar area.
Consider Boarding or Pet-Sitting Arrangements
If your pet will be staying behind, book boarding or pet-sitting services early—spots fill up quickly during the holiday and snowbird seasons! Be sure to share detailed instructions about your pet’s feeding, medication, and exercise routines with your sitter or boarding facility.
Cold-Weather Caution
Even in warmer destinations, sudden temperature drops can occur. Pack appropriate gear for your pet, such as coats for short-haired dogs or booties to protect paws from ice and salt. We offer a variety of coats and sweaters to keep your furry friends warm and comfortable.
Download Healthcare App
If you haven’t already, download our PetCare by DaySmart Vet app via the Apple Store or Google Play. This gives you instant access to your pet’s vaccination records and health information—valuable in case of emergencies during travel.
Let’s make sure your pet is ready for winter!
Call us at 847-434-2745 or visit pets4.com to request an appointment for your pet’s pre-travel checkup or medication refills.
Warm wishes and wagging tails,
Pets4Life Animal Hospital
Come. Sit. Stay. Play.
847.434.2745 | pets4.com | 661 Central Ave., Highland Park, IL 60035
