Are We There Yet? – Road Trippin’ with Fur, Paws & Chaos

Whether you're moving house, heading off on a long holiday, or simply planning a cross-country road trip, travelling long distances with your pet in tow can be both a rewarding and challenging experience. As a seasoned pet owner, I know just how important it is to make the journey as safe, stress-free, and comfortable as possible—for both your furry companion and yourself.

I’ll walk you through everything you need to prepare for long-distance car travel with a dog or cat. From safety essentials and comfort tips to medications and behavioural advice, we’ve got it all covered.

Vet Check-Up First. Before setting off, schedule a check-up with your vet. Ensure your pet is in good health and up to date with vaccinations, flea/tick prevention, and any required prescriptions. If your pet suffers from motion sickness or anxiety, discuss medication options with your vet (more on this later).

Ask your vet about:

Sedatives or calming aids (if necessary)
Anti-nausea medications for motion sickness
Microchipping and updating contact details
Health certificates (especially important for international travel or when crossing certain borders)

Secure the Right Travel Gear. For Dogs: Use a crash-tested travel crate or a seat belt harness specifically designed for canines. For Cats: A well-ventilated, secure cat carrier lined with absorbent bedding is a must.

Don’t forget a waterproof liner or blanket for the car seats and a sunshade for the windows to keep the interior cool.

Packing the Pet Travel Essentials. You wouldn’t go on a long trip without your toiletries and snacks—and neither should your pet. Here’s what to include in your pet’s travel bag:

Checklist:

Food and collapsible bowls
Water bottle with a spill-proof bowl
Treats and chews
Waste bags (for dogs) or a portable litter tray (for cats)
Litter and scoop (biodegradable if possible)
Favourite blanket or toy for comfort
Medication and copy of vet records
Leads, harnesses, and ID tags
Cleaning supplies (pet-safe wipes, paper towels, disinfectant spray)

Planning the Journey

Timing Matters. Start the journey early in the day when it’s cooler and there's less traffic. If possible, try a few shorter trips ahead of the big one to help your pet acclimatise.

Regular Breaks. Plan to stop every 2–3 hours for toilet breaks, hydration, and a bit of exercise (for dogs). Never leave your pet alone in a parked car—temperatures can rise dangerously fast, even in the UK.

Feeding Schedule. Feed your pet at least 3 hours before travel to minimise nausea. Avoid large meals right before hitting the road.

On the Road: Keeping Pets Safe & Calm

Securing Your Pet. A roaming pet is not just a distraction—it’s a hazard. Keep them secure in their crate or harness throughout the journey.

Comfort and Calm. Use calming sprays like Feliway (for cats) or Adaptil (for dogs), which mimic natural pheromones. Play soft music or white noise to soothe anxious animals. Keep the car well ventilated but avoid direct drafts.

If your pet shows signs of stress—panting, drooling, excessive meowing or barking—stop, let them out (dogs only, safely on a lead), and give them reassurance. For cats, cover their carrier partially with a breathable blanket to reduce visual stimuli.

Medication and Natural Remedies

Motion Sickness. Your vet may prescribe Cerenia (for dogs) or Maropitant (also safe for cats), which are highly effective in preventing vomiting during travel.

Anxiety and Stress. Mild anxiety can often be managed with: Natural remedies like CBD oil (vet-approved), valerian root, or L-theanine. Over-the-counter options such as Zylkene or calming chews. Prescription meds, including trazodone (dogs) or gabapentin (cats), when anxiety is more severe

Never self-medicate your pet—always seek veterinary guidance before administering any substance.

Overnight Stays or Accommodation Tips. If you’re stopping overnight or staying at your destination for a while: Book pet-friendly hotels or Airbnbs in advance. Bring a familiar-smelling blanket or toy to help your pet feel at home. Stick to their usual feeding and walking schedule as much as possible.

Every Pet is Different. Some pets are born travellers, hopping into the car with a wag or a purr. Others may need a little more time and patience. The key is preparation, patience, and understanding your pet’s unique needs.

Remember, this is an adventure for them too. With thoughtful planning and a bit of flexibility, you can turn a potentially stressful experience into a bonding journey you’ll both enjoy.

Safe travels, and may the road rise gently to meet you—and your four-legged co-pilot. Have you travelled long distances with your dog or cat? Share your tips or funny stories in the comments below—I’d love to hear them!