Safe and Stress-Free Holiday Travel with Pets: What Every Pet Owner Should Know

Holidays are a time for relaxation, adventure, and quality moments with loved ones including our beloved pets. Whether you're heading off on a road trip to the coast, flying interstate to visit family, or simply staying a few nights away, it’s natural to want your furry companion by your side. But travelling with pets requires more than just packing their favourite toy and food bowl; it means careful planning to ensure their safety, comfort, and wellbeing every step of the way.

We know how important pets are to your family, and we’re here to help make your holiday travels as smooth and stress-free as possible. In this guide, we’ll cover everything from pre-travel health checks and packing essentials, to travel tips for road and air journeys, managing anxiety in pets, and what to do in case of emergencies.

Before you start booking accommodation or planning your route, it’s essential to ask yourself: Is my pet fit and comfortable enough to travel?

Some pets, especially senior animals, those with health conditions, or pets that suffer from anxiety or motion sickness, may not cope well with the stress of travel. In such cases, it may be kinder to consider a trusted pet-sitter or reputable boarding facility.

If you’re unsure, a visit to your vet is the best place to start. We can assess your pet’s health, provide travel advice specific to their needs, and help you make an informed decision about whether bringing them along is the right choice.

A routine health check is highly recommended before any holiday involving your pet. This ensures they’re fit to travel and up to date with important treatments. During your visit, we’ll help you with:

• Vaccinations: Protect your pet from contagious diseases they might encounter in new environments.
• Parasite prevention: Make sure your pet is covered against fleas, ticks, and worms—especially if you're heading to rural or bushy areas.
• Microchipping and ID tags: A must for all travelling pets. Ensure your contact details are current on the microchip registry and that your pet wears a collar with an ID tag.
• Travel documents (if flying): If you’re flying or crossing borders, your pet may need specific documentation or certificates.
• Medication and anxiety support: We can discuss options for motion sickness, anxiety, or other issues to help your pet travel comfortably.

Just like us, pets need their own holiday luggage. Here’s a checklist of must-have items to keep your pet safe and content:

• Lead, harness or collar with ID
• Secure pet carrier or crate (labelled with your contact info)
• Food and water bowls
• Plenty of your pet’s usual food
• Fresh water supply
• Waste bags, litter tray or scooper
• Bedding or a blanket that smells like home
• Favourite toys or comfort items
• Grooming supplies and towel
• First aid kit (ask us what to include for your specific pet)
• Any regular medications
• Copy of vet records and emergency contact details

Having familiar items can significantly reduce your pet’s stress in unfamiliar surroundings.

Road trips with pets can be a lot of fun when done safely and responsibly. Here are some guidelines to keep everyone happy on the road:

1. Use a Restraint or Crate

In Queensland, it's illegal to have a pet unrestrained in a moving vehicle. Use a properly fitted pet harness that connects to a seatbelt, or a secure travel crate. This prevents distractions, protects your pet in case of an accident, and keeps you both safe.

2. Plan for Breaks

Stop every 2-3 hours to let your dog (or cat, if they’re harness-trained) stretch, drink water, and go to the toilet. Never leave your pet in a parked car, even for a few minutes—temperatures can rise dangerously fast, even on cooler days.

3. Maintain a Comfortable Temperature

Ensure your pet isn’t exposed to direct sunlight through windows. Use sunshades or adjust air-conditioning to keep the car cool.

4. Feed Lightly Before Travel

Avoid feeding a large meal right before hitting the road, as it may cause motion sickness. Give a small meal a few hours before departure.

Flying with pets involves more planning and strict guidelines. Most airlines allow pets in the cargo hold, while some allow small pets in the cabin (on certain flights and under specific conditions).

Things to Consider:

• Book through a pet transport company or directly with the airline’s pet travel service.
• Use an airline-approved crate with enough room for your pet to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably.
• Label the crate clearly with your pet’s name, your contact details, and ‘Live Animal’ stickers.
• Avoid tranquilising your pet without veterinary advice—sedatives can affect their breathing at high altitudes.
• Limit food before travel to reduce the risk of vomiting.

Speak to us before flying especially if your pet has never travelled this way before. We can help prepare them for a safer and more relaxed journey.

Cats tend to be more sensitive to change than dogs, and may become stressed with unfamiliar surroundings. If you're travelling with a cat:

• Use a sturdy, well-ventilated carrier lined with a familiar-smelling blanket.
• Keep the carrier secured in the car to prevent movement.
• Avoid opening the carrier in unfamiliar locations.
• Ensure your cat has access to water during long trips.

Some cats benefit from calming sprays (like Feliway) or mild anti-anxiety medication, which we can discuss during your pre-travel vet visit.

Not all accommodation providers welcome pets, so always check in advance. Look for:

• Secure outdoor areas or fenced yards
• Rules around pets inside
• Availability of pet-friendly facilities nearby (e.g., parks, walking trails, beaches)
• Emergency contact numbers for local vets

Bringing a familiar bed or blanket can help your pet settle more easily in their temporary surroundings.

Even pets who love adventures can become unsettled during long car rides or new environments. Watch for signs of anxiety like panting, pacing, whining, hiding, or refusal to eat.

Ways to ease travel anxiety:

• Start with short practice trips to help them adjust.
• Keep a calm, quiet environment during travel.
• Offer praise and treats for calm behaviour.
• Try natural remedies or calming pheromones if suitable.
• Discuss anxiety medication options with your vet for severe cases.

No one wants to think about emergencies during a holiday, but being prepared can make all the difference.

• Locate the nearest vet clinic to your destination and save their contact details.
• Keep your pet’s medical records handy.
• Have an emergency plan for heatstroke, injury, or if your pet escapes.
• Ensure travel insurance covers pet emergencies, if applicable.

If your pet becomes unwell during your trip, don’t hesitate to call us for advice—even while you're away.

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• Stick to your pet’s usual routine as much as possible (mealtimes, walks, bedtime).
• Keep a close eye on them in unfamiliar environments.
• Supervise interactions with other animals.
• Always carry extra water, especially during hot weather or long walks.
• Don’t forget to enjoy the moment—pets love exploring new places with their humans!
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At Karalee Karana Veterinary Surgery, we’re committed to helping you and your pet enjoy a safe, healthy, and happy holiday—whether you're going near or far.

If you have any questions about travelling with your pet, need a pre-trip check-up, or would like tailored advice, get in touch with us today! We're always here to help you travel with peace of mind.