The holidays are a time for family, fun, and often a bit of road-tripping. If you’re driving across Nebraska or flying to another state to visit loved ones, bringing your pet along for the ride can make the season even more special. Of course, safe travel with pets takes preparation. Ord Animal Clinic is proud to take part in getting pet owners travel-ready with health certificates, wellness checks, and advice based on your pet and travel plans.
Is Your Pet Ready for Winter Holiday Travel?
Before you start packing the treats and travel bowls, it’s important to consider your pet’s age, temperament, and health. Some pets love a good road trip, while others may feel anxious or overwhelmed by long journeys and unfamiliar places. If your animal companion won’t do well on a trip, look for boarding options or pet sitters in the area.
Steps for Preparing Pets for Traveling This Season
Schedule a Travel Veterinary Visit
Many states and airlines require a current health certificate confirming your pet is healthy and fit to travel. These are only valid for a limited time, so you’ll want to plan ahead. A vet will perform a physical exam, review vaccinations, and issue your certificate if your pet meets travel requirements. Want to know the requirements for your destination? There’s a website for that.
If you will be traveling out of the country with your pet, that requires a USDA-certified veterinarian, so make sure to call a vet practice before booking an appointment, as this is a specialty certification.
Vaccinations and Preventatives Must Be Current
Even if you’re only traveling within Nebraska, your pet may be exposed to different environments, animals, or pests. Staying up to date on core vaccines like rabies, as well as flea, tick, and heartworm preventatives, to keep your cat or dog protected.
Pack Smart with Pet Essentials
Create a travel kit that includes:
- Enough food for the entire trip
- Water and a collapsible bowl
- Medications (with clear instructions)
- Leash and harness
- Pet-safe cleaning supplies (wipes, waste bags)
- Favorite toys or comfort items
- Travel crate for safety
- Most recent veterinary records
- Phone number for an emergency vet at your destination
Tip: Stick to your pet’s usual food to avoid stomach upset on the road.
Plan for Breaks and Potty Stops
If you’re driving, schedule regular stops to let your pet stretch, hydrate, and relieve themselves. Rest areas and pet-friendly parks are great for quick walks. If it’s very cold, be sure to keep the walks short and bundle up short-haired dogs.
Double-Check ID and Microchip Info
Make sure your pet is wearing a collar with updated ID tags, and if they’re microchipped, verify that your contact information is current. In unfamiliar surroundings, even well-behaved pets can get spooked and run off.
Confirm Travel and Lodging Policies
If you’re staying in a hotel, visiting relatives, or flying, check in advance about their pet policies. Some require proof of vaccinations, weight limits, or crate use.
Travel if Your Pet Has Issues with Car Rides
If your pet has a history of car anxiety or gets motion sick, talk to the vet. A veterinarian can recommend calming products or prescribe safe medications for the journey. These solutions make the trip more comfortable for everyone involved.
Prep for Holiday Pet Travel in Ord, NE
Traveling with pets during the holidays can be a joy, but only if everyone’s safe and prepared. Check every box on your travel prep list before heading anywhere with a cat or dog. Ord Animal Clinic issues state-to-state veterinary health certificates in Ord for cats, dogs, equines, and livestock from Burwell, Ord, Broken Bow, and nearby Nebraska areas. Contact us to schedule your pet’s travel exam at Ord Animal Clinic. Let’s get your pet ready for a holiday adventure!