Vacation Checklist for You & Your Dog

Vacation Checklist for You & Your Dog

By: PetPlace Veterinarians

Whether you have decided to take your pet with you on vacation or leave him in a kennel, there are several things you need to do. Here is a checklist to help you remember all the necessities.

If Your Pet is Traveling With You

  • Have your veterinarian examine your pet within 2 weeks of travel.

  • Make sure your pet is up to date on vaccines.

  • Bring vaccine and health records with you.

  • Bring your pet's health certificate if you cross state lines.

  • Make sure your pet has a securely fastened collar and identification tag.

  • Bring a sufficient amount of your pet's food.

  • Bring bowls for food and water.

  • Bring bottles of water for times when your pet is thirsty and water is not available.

  • Bring leashes, toys and bedding.

  • Make sure your pet has been treated for fleas and ticks.

  • If your pet is on medication, make sure to bring enough to last throughout the trip.


  • Bring a carrier or crate for your pet to travel in safely.

    If Your Pet is Staying in a Kennel

  • Visit various kennels and decide which one you prefer.

  • Make kennel reservations well in advance, especially around holidays.

  • Have your pet examined within 2 weeks of kenneling.

  • Make sure your pet is up to date on vaccines and is given any vaccines required by the kennel.

  • Have copies of your pet's health record and vaccine record to take to the kennel.

  • Leave an emergency contact number and make sure that person is aware of his or her responsibilities.

  • Consider leaving a credit card number with the emergency contact person.

  • Leave a copy of your vacation itinerary with the kennel personnel, including telephone numbers, in case they need to reach you.

  • Make sure your pet has been treated for fleas and ticks.

  • Bring your pet's own food.

  • Bring toys, special blankets or bedding.

  • If your pet is on medication, make sure to bring enough to last through his stay at the kennel.

  • If there are any special considerations, make sure to write them out and give a copy to the kennel. For example, if your dog doesn't do well with cats, make sure the kennel is aware of this so they can take any necessary precautions.

  • Leave the name and phone number of your veterinarian and any emergency numbers your vet may have.

  • Make sure to contact your veterinary hospital to inform them you are out of town and who is caring for your pet.

  • You may want to write a letter releasing the emergency contact person from any responsibility or liability regarding medical care of your pet.

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