Travelling With Your Companion Animal

Hitting the road with your animal by your side can be an exciting and enjoyable experience. However, it is incredibly important to ensure your companion animal is safe, happy and healthy on these long trips. Luckily, we have some advice for how to ensure your furry friend can enjoy their time away as much as you do.

Microchip, Health and Vaccinations

Before you hit the road you should make sure that your animal is up to date with worming, flea treatments and vaccinations. You should also double check your microchip details and update them if necessary and provide them with a collar or identification device with your contact details affixed so that if your animal companion does accidentally wander astray, there is more chance of them being returned to you. If you know your pet is an anxious traveller, then your veterinarian can also provide you with some advice.

Things to Pack

• Comfortable bedding
• Their favourite toys
• Travel crate
• Collar and lead or harness
• Food and treats
• Water bowls (be sure to pack enough bottled water – in case there are no taps along the way)
• Grooming equipment – a towel in case your pet gets wet
• Pooper scooper and plastic bags
• Pet first aid kit (any medications they regularly take)

Restraint

You need to ensure your animal is properly restrained for the entirety of the time the vehicle is moving.

Commonly, the restraint should attach onto the seat belt and pooch’s collar/harness. Your dog should still be able to comfortably lie down, move and stretch.

Cats must be travelled in a secure carrier. These should be big enough for them to sit, stretch, stand and lie down in comfortably. Never place your cat’s carrier in the boot of your vehicle. This also applies to pocket pets.

And don’t forget that any crate must be secured firmly into your vehicle using straps or a fastened seatbelt.

Breaks

Your animal must have adequate toilet breaks to stretch their legs and exercise. They must also be provided with food and water throughout the trip.

Rest areas are a great opportunity for you and your travelling companions to enjoy a break, stretch your legs, and sniff about. Ensure your pooch remains on their leash at all times, as to keep them safe around the moving traffic on the road.

Important

You should avoid leaving your pets inside of your vehicle whilst unattended throughout your trip. Sudden changes in weather, the presence of strange and new people, places and other animals passing by can cause distress and anxiety for them.

To read RSPCA Australia’s policy regarding the transportation of animals, click here.