I’m aware that there are tons of articles floating around in cyberspace about tips for traveling with pets. I even wrote a blog post about vacationing with dogs, but what about adding an injury to the mix? Sometimes you may have to travel with an injured animal (perhaps you’re moving) or maybe you want to take a fun trip! As long as it’s safe and healthy for your canine companion to travel (be sure to get the all-clear from your vet), here are some tips for traveling with an injured dog.
Tips for Traveling With an Injured Dog
Research Nearby Veterinarians
Research vets near the area that you’ll be traveling to. Check out reviews and customer testimonials. Even if you don’t think you’ll need to visit the vet while you’re out of town, I’d recommend calling a few offices ahead to be sure they can get you in if you run into a problem with your dog’s injury.
Bring Vet Records
It’s always important to bring updated vaccinations with you while traveling. If you have an injured dog by your side on your adventure, however, I’d suggest packing recent vet records that are associated with the injury. Wynston and I have previously had to visit an out-of-town vet. In this case, I brought all of his records from the entire broken foot journey including the x-ray disk, and I also had my local vet send over all records to the new veterinarian. It ensured accuracy for his splint and ease for the visit. You also never know if you’ll have to visit an emergency vet for an injury related issue.
Use a Comfortable Carrier
I have a Sturdi Bag that I’ve used for Wynston on airplanes in the past and it’s worked out nicely. After he broke his foot I decided I wanted a new pet carrier for a few reasons. Firstly, I wanted a carrier on wheels. I have a bad hip so pulling a carrier is much easier than carrying it on my shoulder, especially with other luggage. Secondly, I needed a carrier that I could set Wynston in rather than slide him in. The Gen7Pets roller carrier (affiliate link) I ended up investing in is amazing. I can put Wynston in it through the top or the sides. It’s on wheels and the bottom is adjustable. The side pockets make for easy treat and poop bag storage, and the carrier can turn into a car seat or backpack! You definitely get what you pay for, and I’m so glad I got the Gen7Pets carrier for the airplane. It fit under the seat with no problems and it was just perfect for Wynston. The roller carrier is also a great replacement for a large stroller in the case of airline travel or situations where you can’t bring a full size stroller. It’s extremely important to have a comfortable carrier – it can make all the difference for your injured pet.
Bring a First Aid Kit
I recommend bringing along a first aid kit for your pet when you travel, but you may want to add some items to it if you have an injured dog. For example, for Wynston’s broken foot I added more gauze, casting material, extra tape, pain medication, Zen Pets hemp oil, and an instant ice pack. Here’s a great post from Daily Dog Tag on a DIY first aid kit for dogs if you still need to put one together!
Don’t Forget Meds!
Remember to bring any necessary medications for your dog’s injury.
Hotel Accomodations
If you’re staying at a dog-friendly hotel, call ahead to see if they can accommodate your injured dog. At the Candlewood Suites in El Paso, TX the kind staff was able to give us a room on the ground floor, which was right next to the side exit and pet area. It’s amazing how some hotels will do what they can to suite your needs, especially if you tug on their heart strings with a Chihuahua in a cast 😉
Traveling with an injured dog can be painless if you plan and prepare for it. What are some tips that you would add to this list?
Road tripping with your dog? Download or print the dog mom road trip packing list!
Brandi Lytle says
Thank you for these tips! It probably goes without saying, but I would pack some extra treats and bones, just in case you need to keep your injured little one entertained!
Rosh says
Hi how long did u wait to travel after the broken leg ? Did u give anything to aid healing ?
Amanda says
We were traveling when he broke his foot. He was fully casted on on pain meds!