July 3, 2026

5 tips to ensuring a safe trip with your dog

Dog Care
**30.** Person sitting with their dog on a rocky mountain overlook, enjoying a scenic view during an outdoor hike.

 
Leaving your dog behind when you go away can be hard, so it’s not surprising when pet owners choose to take their dog with them. Now that summer is here, you might be considering traveling on a long or short trip with your dog. 
 
Ahead of the big day, it’s worth spending some time preparing for what they’ll need during the journey and throughout the trip. Check out our tips from our friends at Royal Canin Canada to help make your trip as safe and stress-free as possible. 

A dog lying on the beach AI-generated content may be incorrect.   Plan your journey in advance 
  If you’re traveling abroad or to another state, do your research beforehand and check if you are required to bring any documentation for your dog. Many countries will require an international health certificate written by a veterinarian. Be sure to ask your vet well in advance of your trip if this is a service that they offer. While entry requirements can be simple for some countries, others may have much more strict requirements so be sure to start preparing well in advance of your trip.  
A dog in a carrier AI-generated content may be incorrect.   Get them there safely 
  It’s important to ensure that your dog can travel comfortably and safely on any long or short journey in the car. A crate, seat belt harness or dog guard are some options for keeping them safe and secure. If you choose the crate option, it should be sturdy, secure, big enough for them to move around and easy to clean.  
A person and a dog in the back of a car AI-generated content may be incorrect.   Traveling with an anxious pet 
  If your dog suffers from anxiety, it might be best to trial short journeys in the carrier to see how they react. Once they are at ease when using a crate, it should make the longer journeys much easier. Your veterinarian can also advise you about ways to reduce travel anxiety and motion sickness.  
A dog lying in the trunk of a car AI-generated content may be incorrect.   Packing for your dog 
  Pack any supplies you might need throughout the journey, such as food, treats, toys, blankets and medication, ahead of time. Remember to take plenty of disposable bags to use when your dog needs to go outside.  
A dog running on a beach AI-generated content may be incorrect.   Schedule time to stretch! 
  Make sure you are taking regular breaks on your trip so you and your dog can get some fresh air and stretch your legs – particularly in the summer months when the weather is hot.  

Traveling with your dog may feel daunting at first, but with some forward planning, you can ease into your summer break (hopefully) stress-free.