Shopping Guide for Pet Travel
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My two dogs have lived on three continents over the past 8 years. It’s safe to say I know a thing or two about international travel with pets. And today I’m sharing all my must haves when travelling with pets to keep your pet safe and happy while travelling.
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Dog Crates
Getting the right crate is crucial to a happy pet while travelling. Your pet should be able to stand and make a full circle (like they’re chasing their tail!). Here’s one I recommend for in-cabin travel.
If you require a hard crate for cargo travel, these are the exact ones we used when moving to both Angola and Argentina. And we still have them in our attic here in Austin, ready for our next international move!
Puppy Pads
Even if your dog is potty trained, these are important to line your crate with. Especially with international travel. When we moved to Angola, one of my pups went to the restroom in her crate. I can’t blame her. She had never been in a crate for 17+ hours and she was probably really scared. Luckily, I lined her crate with these and avoided a big mess for her.
Water Bottle
This water bottle is so helpful while travelling with pets or when taking walks in the heat. Many times there aren’t water bowls available and this water bottle is a great way to always have water ready for your pup.
Leashes
This is basic, y’all. But I wanted to share my favorite leases. These have stood the test of time through 3 international moves. Would highly recommend!
Gooby Dog Harness
Herbie’s gooby harness has also been with us since 2012. I’ve never had to replace it over the past 9 years. I also like that they have bright colors so your dog will be easily seen while crossing busy city streets!
Small Treats
It’s inevitable that your dog may get a little cranky while travelling. Let’s face it, staying cooped up in a crate for so long isn’t ideal. Use these small treats to keep them happy when needed. Plus, they’re organic! These are Peanut and Herbie’s favorite!
Ziploc Space Bags
Use these to transport your dog beds in your suitcase! These are perfect for sucking all the air out so you can take your dog's bed with you overseas. Your pup will be so happy to get off the plane and into his same bed from back home!
Food Bag
When your dog travels under the plane in cargo, it’s a good idea to tape a small bag of dog food on top of the crate. We do this each time we put them under the plane. Just in case they get separated from you or get left off the flight. The airport staff will have some food your pup is familiar with to feed them.
This brand is what I feed Herbie and Peanut. They love it!
Dog Baggies
At some point your dog may need to go #2! Be prepared to pick it up with these doggie bags!
“Live Animal” Stickers
These are for everyone’s safety. Your dogs and the people handling your dog's crate. You might think it’s obvious there’s a dog in a crate. But luggage handlers are busy people and sometimes a barking dog can take them by surprise when lifting and carrying a crate. Give them a good head-up with these “Live Animal” stickers.
Travel Litter Box
While I don’t have a cat, I know they need litter boxes. And these travel little boxes are perfect for your cat whenever duty calls. Many times, airports only have fake grass for dogs to do their business on. Your cat may prefer his or her own travel litter box.
Cat Scratch Mat
This traveling scratching mat is super thin and will easily fit into your suitcase! Your cat will thank you!
Pet Travel Paperwork
I never thought too much about this one until I started moving overseas. Your dog will need a lot of paperwork to move internationally. Keep it all in one place with these document folders!
These are also great for keeping your own personal documents in one place. We love to use these to keep our visa documents together!
There you have it! A list of everything I am sure to have with me when I travel internationally with my dogs. Having these items will help you feel more prepared and confident when traveling with your pets.
What other pet travel must haves do you use? Let me know down in the comments!