Traveling with your pet—whether by car, plane, or across international borders—can be a smooth, safe experience when planned thoughtfully. At Santa Monica Veterinary Group, we help pet owners prepare for every step of the journey with personalized care, travel documentation, and wellness guidance.

But before you head out, it’s important to understand the specific health, legal, and emotional considerations that come with taking your pet away from home.

Why Travel Planning Matters—Even for Healthy SoCal Pets

Southern California pets may not face many regional health risks at home, but the moment you cross state or country lines, that changes. Different parts of the U.S. present new threats such as heartworm, leptospirosis, or toxic blue-green algae.

For example, heartworm is far more prevalent in the Southeast and Midwest. You can explore current prevalence by region using the CAPC Heartworm Map. Exposure to contaminated water can also introduce pathogens like leptospirosis, while unfamiliar local plants or bodies of water may present poisoning risks—learn which are toxic here.

Step 1: Schedule a Pre-Trip Veterinary Visit

Before any kind of travel, we recommend booking a pre-trip exam 2–4 weeks in advance. For international destinations or states with strict entry rules (like Hawaii), earlier planning is essential—some documentation can take months.

During this visit, we will:

  • Assess your pet’s overall health and fitness for travel
  • Update core vaccinations and review parasite prevention
  • Identify any underlying conditions that could make travel stressful or dangerous
  • Issue a health certificate, which is typically valid for 10–30 days

Health certificates are mandatory for most airline travel and international border crossings. For current requirements, check the USDA APHIS Pet Travel portal.

Step 2: Understand Destination-Specific Requirements

Each destination has its own rules:

  • Mexico: Usually requires only a current rabies vaccination and health certificate.
  • Hawaii: One of the most complex U.S. destinations. It requires rabies titers, microchipping, and possible quarantine. This process can take up to 6 months.
  • European countries: Often require USDA-endorsed documentation, microchipping, and timed parasite treatments.

The AVMA’s pet travel FAQ and the USDA Pet Travel site provide current entry regulations by destination.

Step 3: Prepare Your Pet for the Journey

Travel isn’t just about documents—it’s about comfort and safety. Here’s how to reduce travel anxiety and prepare your pet physically and emotionally.

Practice Makes Perfect

  • Take short car rides ahead of time to see how your pet tolerates motion. Watch for signs of car sickness, such as drooling, whining, or vomiting. If they get carsick, talk to your vet about medications or dietary strategies.
  • Let your pet spend time in their travel carrier in a calm environment. Gradually introduce longer periods in the carrier, and simulate travel environments (tight spaces, noise, or movement).
  • Make the carrier a positive space with treats, familiar bedding, and toys.

AAHA’s travel safety guide includes more tips on acclimating pets to travel.

Build a Travel Kit

Pack smart. Your pet’s travel kit should include:

  • Medications and flea/tick/heartworm preventives
  • Vaccination records and digital health certificates
  • A leash, harness, and collapsible water/food bowls
  • Familiar items to reduce stress (a toy or unwashed blanket)
  • First-aid supplies—Red Cross offers helpful classes

Step 4: Know the Airline Rules

Airline regulations vary, so research is key. You’ll need to understand:

  • Carrier dimensions and ventilation standards
  • Whether your pet qualifies for in-cabin vs. cargo travel
  • Breed restrictions (especially for brachycephalic breeds)
  • Feeding, sedation, and hydration policies

Most airlines require you to check in early and submit veterinary documents at least 48–72 hours prior to departure. Reach out directly to your airline for a checklist, and confirm pet-specific policies.

Step 5: Expect the Unexpected

Even with careful planning, emergencies can happen. Prepare by:

  • Researching emergency vet clinics along your route or near your destination
  • Saving digital copies of your pet’s medical records on your phone and have paper copies of the most important documents, like vaccine certificates
  • Knowing how to handle wildlife encounters or bites—this guide can help
  • Reviewing how to prevent emergencies on the road

Traveling with Senior Pets or Pets with Medical Conditions

Older pets often need extra care. They may tire more easily, be prone to anxiety, or have chronic health needs. If you’re traveling with a senior pet:

  • Schedule wellness lab work ahead of travel
  • Discuss medications for mobility or anxiety
  • Keep routines as consistent as possible

Preventive screening is especially important—Zoetis shares why here.

Why Travel with Santa Monica Veterinary Group?

We don’t just fill out paperwork—we help you anticipate what your pet needs for a safe, smooth journey. Whether you’re planning a road trip, moving abroad, or traveling for the holidays, our team is here to help with:

  • International and interstate travel compliance
  • Health certificates from USDA-accredited veterinarians
  • Personalized guidance for complex destinations
  • Anxiety-reduction strategies and packing tips

Contact us to schedule a travel consultation.

With the right preparation, traveling with your pet doesn’t have to be stressful. From health screenings and destination regulations to practical training and emotional support, Santa Monica Veterinary Group is your partner in travel. Let’s make the journey just as safe and joyful for your pet as it is for you.