Going away? Here's your ultimate pet care travel checklist - The Pet Vet Travel Pet Care Checklist

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Going away? Here’s your ultimate pet care travel checklist

Making sure your pet is safe and cared for should be at the top of your pre-holiday to-do list. Here’s our handy checklist.

Reviewed by Lizzie Hunt

Published: 22 April 2026

Whether you're heading off for a mini break or a 2-week summer holiday, making sure your pet is safe, healthy, and cared for should be at the top of your to-do list. Here's a handy checklist to make sure nothing relating to the care of your pet goes forgotten!

💡 Tip: All of the below are included or discounted on our Pet Health Plan.

1. Decide: Is your pet coming or staying?

Taking them with you?
- Check your accommodation is pet friendly
- Research local vet services at your destination
- Look up pet travel rules (especially for EU travel)
Leaving them at home?
- Choose between a trusted pet sitter, family member, or boarding kennel/cattery
- Book well in advance — spots fill up fast in summer!

2. Visit your vet & leave enough time before you travel

Schedule a pre-travel health check
Make sure vaccinations are up to date
- Core vaccines (dogs: distemper, parvovirus; cats: flu, enteritis)
- Kennel cough if boarding
- Rabies for overseas travel
Get flea, tick, and worm treatments (essential in summer!)
Ask about any travel anxiety support or calming options
Ensure they’re microchipped and the details are up to date

3. Prepare travel essentials

Whether travelling or boarding, remember these:

For dogs & cats:

Food and water bowls, especially if your pet uses a special bowl such as a slow feeder
Enough food for the full trip (avoid switching brands – this could upset their stomach)
Favourite toys, blankets, or beds for comfort. These will smell like home and provide comfort in your absence
Collar with up-to-date ID tag
Lead & harness
Waste bags
Carrier or crate

Extra for travel:

Animal health certificate
Proof of vaccination
Medications (with instructions)

4. If boarding or pet sitting

Confirm dates and emergency contact info
Leave clear instructions (feeding, walks, medication)
Provide vet contact details
Bring a comfort item to reduce stress
Make sure your sitter has access to your home (keys, codes, etc.)

5. If leaving them at home (if going on a day trip)

Close off areas of the home you don’t want them to have access to
Leave out fresh water and ensure they have food. If using a timed feeder, ensure there’s enough food in there to be dispensed
Interactive toys can be left out to provide mental stimulation
Use timers for lights

6. Emergency plan

Make sure your pet sitter/kennel has:
- Your contact info
- Instructions for what to do in an emergency

By running through this checklist, you’ll be able to set off on your travels, knowing your pet has everything they need! To book your pet’s vaccinations or book them in for a pre-travel health check, please contact our team.

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