If you’ve decided to take your dog on an adventure then it can be blast, but it’s not as simple as tossing a leash in your bag and heading out the door. A little planning goes a long way in making sure your pup stays happy, safe, and (mostly) well-behaved on the journey.

1. Get That Pawsport Ready! (A.K.A. Vet Check & Papers)
   Before you hit the road (or sky), make sure your dog is up to date on vaccinations and has a clean bill of health. If you’re flying, check airline pet policies—some require specific paperwork. And if you’re road-tripping, have your pup’s ID tags, microchip info, and vaccination records handy.
   
   
2. Pack the Pup Essentials
   You wouldn’t leave home without your toothbrush (I hope), so don’t forget your dog’s must-haves! Pack food, water, collapsible bowls, a comfy blanket, leash, poop bags, and their favourite toy. Pro tip: Bringing something that smells like home—like a blanket or toy—can help keep them calm in unfamiliar places.
   
   
3. Practice Makes Pawfect
   If your dog isn’t used to car rides or new environments, ease them in. Take a few short trips before the big one, letting them get used to the sights, sounds, and motion. For anxious travellers, a little calming treat or a favourite chew toy can work wonders.
   
   
4. Road Trip Rules
   Dogs should never roam freely in the car—no matter how cute they look with their head out the window. Use a secure crate, pet seatbelt, or car hammock to keep them safe. And remember to stop every couple of hours for potty breaks!
   
   
5. Flying? Know the Drill
   Not all dogs love flying, and not all airlines love dogs—so do your homework. Virgin Airlines are opening up travel in the cabin for doggies in the near future so understand the rules when it finally launches. In the meantime, start with some crate training so your pup is used to being in one.

8. Doggy-Friendly Accommodations
   Not every hotel, Airbnb, or café welcomes four-legged guests, so double-check before booking. There are more websites now that share pet friendly accommodation so do some research.
   
   
9. Stick to Their Routine
   New places are exciting (so many smells!), but keeping your pup’s schedule as normal as possible—regular feeding, walks, and sleep—will help them feel more comfortable and avoid tummy troubles.
   
   
10. Expect the Unexpected
    Let’s face it, things don’t always go as planned. Maybe your dog decides to bark at every bird in the park, or maybe they roll in something…unpleasant. Pack a pet first-aid kit, some extra towels, and a sense of humour—you’ll need it!

Final Woofs

Traveling with your dog is all about adventure, patience, and a little bit of chaos. With the right prep, your pup will be wagging their tail from take off to touchdown (or from driveway to destination). So leash up, pack smart, and get ready to make some pawsome memories together!