Traveling with your senior pet pal can be a great way to bond and grow closer. But, bringing your older pet along will require forethought and planning. These 10 tips will help you plan a successful trip with your favorite travel buddy. ​

1. Schedule a pre-travel veterinary appointment for your pet

Before traveling, plan a discussion with your veterinarian to ensure your senior pet is healthy enough for travel. If your pet has medical issues, travel may be too stressful, or exacerbate their condition. Ensure your pet's vaccinations are up to date, and if you are traveling by plane or crossing state lines, ask for a current vaccination certificate. If you're a Paws at Home client, we can handle this conversation with a convenient telemedicine appointment. ​

2. Take a test drive with your pet

You may envision a fun car trip with your graying best friend, but if your pet starts howling 10 minutes into the ride, or becomes car sick, your perfect trip may be ruined. If your pet hasn't traveled long distances by car, take a few test drives to ensure they can manage the trip without a catastrophe. If your pet does become anxious or sick, ask your veterinarian about medications that may help. ​

3. Identify pet-friendly hotels along your route

Research your travel route, as well as your final destination, for pet-friendly hotels that will accommodate you and your furry friend. Read reviews and recommendations from previous travelers to find the best deals, and ensure you check whether a pet deposit is required, and what will happen if your senior pet has an accident. ​

4. Pack your pet's bag​

Pack your pet's suitcase with all their necessary supplies, including:

• Food, bowls, and a can opener for canned food
• Litter box and litter
• Leash, collar, and identification tag
• Medications
• Current medical records
• Your veterinarian's phone number

5. Locate emergency veterinary hospitals along the way

Senior pets, especially those with medical problems, are more likely to develop an issue that requires immediate care while away from home. Locate emergency veterinary hospitals that will be open 24/7 along your route, and at your final destination, so you are prepared for the wors

6. Help your pet in and out of the car

Hopping in and out of the car may be challenging for older pets with mobility issues. Instead of asking your arthritic pal to strain themselves each time you stop, pack a portable ramp or stairs to make getting in and out easier. Or you can consider a harness, such as the Help 'Em Up harness. ​

7. Set up a supportive travel bed for your pet

Your pet will be safest strapped in a back seat harness or confined to a crate while you drive. But, being confined for hours at a time may be hard on achy bones and stiff joints. Line your pet's crate with an orthopedic bed that will provide plenty of support, to ensure they ride in comfort.  

8. Make frequent stops

Older pets need more frequent bathroom breaks, and to stretch their legs periodically. Plan to stop every hour or so to give your dog a short walk, or give your cat a litter break, and offer water.  

9. Plan for pet accidents

Despite frequent breaks, your older pet is likely to have at least one accident during an extended car ride. Don't forget to pack paper towels, cleaning wipes, plastic bags, extra towels and bedding, and pet wipes, so you can clean up and get back on the road quickly.

10. Stick to your pet's familiar routines

Although your vacation will take you to a new place, realize that your senior pet may become anxious if their normal routine is completely disrupted, so stick to their normal feeding, walking, and bedtime schedule as closely as possible. If you plan sightseeing trips and activities from sunup to sundown, your older pet may choose to sit out some excursions and re-energize with a nap instead. Be sensitive to your pet's needs, and arrange for a pet sitter to check on them as needed.