Assess your pet.
Be honest about your pet's ability to travel. Be sure your pet is in optimum health for travel. If your pet is very young or old, or is ill it may be better for all concerned to look into a pet sitter or kennel. Check with your lodging choice to be sure your pet will be welcome. Some establishments have size limits.
Schedule a visit with your veterinarian.
Ask your vet about any flea, heartworm, or tick risks for areas you will be visiting. If your pet gets carsick or restless when traveling, ask your vet about appropriate medications or treatments.
Seriously consider having your pet microchipped. If your pet becomes separated from you many humane societies and shelters nationwide use scanners that will read these implanted chips and let you be reunited with your lost pet.
Make certain all vaccinations are up to date and obtain current health and rabies certificates no more than ten (10) days prior to your departure. These are required if your pet is traveling by air. You are also strongly recommended to have these documents if your plans do not include air travel. You may need to board your pet unexpectedly and many kennels will not accept pets without theses certificates. And, if your pet requires emergency medical care, having these will allow care to take place much more quickly and without dangerous duplication of vaccinations.
Obtain a secure carrier for your pet.
You need a sturdy, properly ventilated crate of adequate size for your pet to stand up, turn around and lie down in comfortably. Additionally it must comply with any airline requirements. Print your pets name and your name, address and phone number on the outside of the crate with permanent marker. Make sure your pet is accustomed to the crate before you begin your trip.
Verify that your pet's tags are current.
Your pet should wear a secure collar at all times with tags showing proof of rabies vaccination and your name, address, and phone number in case your pet becomes separated.
Before you leave.
Trim your pet's nails. Pets with freshly trimmed nails will be less likely to damage items in strange surroundings and will be easier to carry and restrain if necessary. Bathe and rid your pet of any fleas to avoid infesting its new surroundings.
Things to bring.
-A sturdy leash and an extra collar.
-An old blanket or sheet for the back seat of your car and to cover bedding and furniture at your destination.
-Food. Bring enough for the whole trip. If you feed canned, bring a can opener and spoon.
-Portable water bowl. If your pet is sensitive, bring water from home to mix with unfamiliar water.
-Treats, toys or chew items.
-All required medications, supplements and preventatives.
-Tweezers to remove foreign objects from fur or paws.
-Brush or comb, lint and hair remover.
-Waste removal bags.
-An old towel to wipe wet or dirty paws.
-Carpet cleaner for accidents.
-First aid kit.
-Flashlight for nighttime walks.
Be prepared for the worst.
While no one likes to think about it, many pets do become separated while away from home. To increase chances of a safe and quick return, bring a recent photograph and written description of your pet including breed, sex, age, weight, height, and any microchip or tattoo numbers.
While you're traveling.
Keep fresh water available for your pet at all times. Avoid sudden changes of diet. If you are unable to obtain your pet's normal brand, switch gradually over to the new food over a period of four or more days.
Obey all leash laws and make certain to keep your pet on a leash or in a carrier at all times when not securely in a room. Clean up after your pet.
Have a safe trip.