Create safe home environments and learn proper travel safety for stress-free adventures with your pet across Canada and beyond.
Introduce the crate with bedding and enrichment, feed meals near the crate, and gradually extend time inside. Place in a quiet area for rest. Crate training provides a safe, den-like space at home and on the road.
Use rigid crates secured by seatbelts or crash-tested harnesses; keep pets in the back seat. Avoid allowing pets to roam loose in the cabin. Pets should never be loose in the cabin during travel.
Monitor temperature and humidity; ensure adequate ventilation. Never leave pets unattended in vehicles in hot or cold weather. Brachycephalic animals are at higher risk of heat stress and may overheat in mild temperatures.
Consult your veterinarian for pets with health issues, late-stage pregnancy, or recent surgery; some animals are unfit for travel except for urgent veterinary care. Some animals may require extra caution and climate-controlled environments.
Familiarize pets with crates and carriers before travel; bring familiar blankets and, when appropriate, discuss anti-nausea or anti-anxiety medication with your vet. Use calming techniques and reward-based handling to reduce travel stress.
Plan frequent breaks for water and brief exercise; bring water from home to reduce GI upset; feed lightly before departure. Provide water, reduce temperature, and contact a veterinarian when needed if a pet shows signs of distress.
Transport incompatible animals separately; manage sight/sound/scent exposure to reduce stress and prevent injury. High-risk pets require extra caution and climate-controlled environments. If safety is a concern, use barriers and consult professionals.
Carry vaccination records, health certificates, microchip information, and import/export permits when applicable. Manage initial introductions between resident and new pets carefully; use barriers and scent swapping before face-to-face meetings.
Use carriers or harnesses per local regulations; research company policies. Keep pets secure and out of aisle spaces. Choose certified crash-tested harnesses for vehicle travel and avoid retractables as primary safety leashes near traffic.
Check airline pet policies and seasonality; choose flights that avoid extreme temperatures. Confirm carrier specifications and any documentation requirements. Inspect gear routinely for fraying, cracks, or weak stitching; retire damaged items promptly.