Whether you’re cruising down the coast, hiking in the mountains, or heading to Grandma’s house for the weekend, summer is often the season for adventure. And for many pet parents, that also means bringing their four-legged family members along for the ride!
But traveling with dogs takes more than simply tossing a leash in the back seat. From pet travel safety tips to packing the right gear, a little planning goes a long way in making your trip smooth, safe, and enjoyable– for both you and your pup.
This guide will cover travel prep and health essentials, must-have dog travel gear, tips for a safe and happy road trip, and we’ll also help you decide when boarding might be a better choice for your pet.
How to Prepare for Traveling with Dogs
Planning ahead for a smooth trip is worth it– trust us! Before setting off on your summer getaway, make sure your dog has everything they need to enjoy the adventure too!
- Schedule a vet check-up: A quick health exam helps ensure your pup is fit for travel. If you’re local, our on-site Veterinary Clinic makes it easy to get everything squared away in one place
- Update vaccines and parasite preventives: Dogs are exposed to more ticks, fleas, and mosquitoes during travel– especially in wooded or coastal areas in the summer. Plus, some campgrounds and outdoor recreation areas require proof of valid rabies vaccines when you plan a stay with your pup! Be sure they’re protected against heartworm, Lyme disease, and other common illnesses.
(Need help? Request an appointment through the PetCare App by DaySmart, or call us at 508-588-5661 to schedule an appointment with our clinic!) - Double-check your microchip info: If your dog gets lost, an updated microchip can be their fastest way back home. Having a recent photo of your pup is a good idea, too. (But we know you’ve got plenty of those on your phone!) Learn more about what a microchip is and why your pet should have one.
Dog Travel Essentials: What To Pack For Your Pup
Just like us, dogs have their own version of a travel essentials kit. Here are some of our favorite items (many available in-store at JM Pet Resort):
- Collapsible travel bowls – compact and perfect for pit stops
- Portable dog water bottle – keeps pups hydrated on the go
- Dog seatbelt or travel crate – a must for safety during car rides
- Freeze-dried dog food, like Instinct, Open Farm, Stella & Chewy’s, or Northwest Naturals – convenient, lightweight, and tummy-friendly! (Don’t miss out on Raw-Gust savings, too!)
- Treats and a treat pouch – Because training can be fun and easy, even on vacation!
- Extra leash, harness, halti, and ID tags – Backups = peace of mind. (Need extra collars or ID tags? Stop into our Retail store today! We can create tags on the spot!)
- Calming chews or familiar toys – Great for nervous travelers
- Poop bags – Always bring more than you think you’ll need!
Pro Tip: Make a dog travel checklist ahead of time— you’ll thank yourself later.
Dog-Friendly Road Trip Tips
Long car rides can be overwhelming for dogs. These dog-friendly road trip tips will help keep your pup calm, safe, and content on their next big adventure.
- Take frequent breaks: Stop every 2-3 hours for potty time, fresh air, and a quick stretch.
- Never leave your dog in a parked car: Even with the windows cracked, summer temps can rise fast and become dangerous quickly!
- Keep feeding schedules consistent: Sudden changes can upset sensitive tummies– especially when paired with motion.
- Pack enrichment: Puzzle toys, chews, or frozen Kongs can provide entertainment during longer stretches of travel.
Is It Better to Board Your Dog or Travel With Them?
While summer travel can be exciting, not every pet is built for life on the road. Some dogs experience anxiety in the car, struggle with motion sickness, or become overwhelmed by new environments and routines. And for many cats, the idea of leaving their familiar home can cause more stress than it’s worth. In these cases, choosing to let your pet stay behind isn’t just okay— it may actually be the kindest option!
At JM Pet Resort & Veterinary Clinic, we offer multiple solutions to support pets who thrive on comfort and consistency. Our Dog Boarding and Board & Train programs provide a structured, enriching environment with compassionate, professional care. Dogs enjoy supervised social play, daily exercise, and plenty of love and attention from our experienced team. For those who could benefit from additional guidance, our trainers can incorporate personalized obedience work and behavior support during their stay.
Prefer to keep your pet at home? Our Pet Sitting and Dog Walking Services bring our trusted care directly to your door. Whether it’s a midday walk or a feeding and snuggle session, we can visit up to twice a day to ensure your pet stays happy and well cared for in their own space. While we don’t offer overnight care, this option is especially comforting for cats or lower-energy dogs who feel safest at home while their parents enjoy some well-earned time away.
Final Tips for Summer Travel With Pets
Whether your dog is a summer co-pilot or your cat prefers the comfort of home, or you’re not quite sure what’s best, one thing is certain: a little preparation makes a big difference. No matter your destination (or staycation), we’re here to support you every step of the way.
Hitting the road? Stop by our Retail Store to stock up on travel essentials– from travel bowls to calming chews and freeze-dried food perfect for packing. Need help building your dog’s travel kit? Our friendly staff is here to help!
Leaving your pet at home? Explore our Pet Sitting and Dog Walking Services, designed to keep pets comfortable and cared for in their own space. Ideal for cats, senior pets, or hombodies who feel safest in familiar surroundings.
Need help deciding if travel or boarding is right for your pup? Our team can help! Whether you’re considering travel, Dog or Cat Boarding, or even a structured Board & Train program, we’ll help guide you toward the solution that fits your pet’s personality, needs, and your vacation plans.