Traveling with your pet can be a fulfilling experience for you both as long as you plan appropriately for your friend's safety and comfort. Be sure to pack the necessary pet travel supplies and accessories before you hit the road with your best friend.

Crash Protection Geer

No doubt you buckle up immediately upon entering your vehicle before you and your pal take off on a road trip. Offer your pet the same protection from getting tossed about if you hit rough bumps and dangerous road conditions.

Pet First Aid Kit

You can keep your furry friend safe by knowing what to do if an accident happens. Caring for your pet involves having the necessary tools at your disposal to tend to injuries or illnesses that may occur while away from home. These items are among the first aid supplies you should pack for a trip:

•       Health and vaccination records

•       Antibiotic ointments and styptic pencils for cuts and scrapes

•       Hydrogen peroxide to induce vomiting if poisonous substances are ingested

•       Eye and ear dropper

•       Thermometer and lubricant

•       Scissors and tweezers

Check your kit before your trip to ensure that your supplies are functional and have not expired.

Pet Travel Bowl and Water Bottle

When traveling with your pet or staying at a pet-friendly hotel, remember to bring along an appropriately sized collapsible bowl to ensure your pet gets its expected serving of food. Try acclimating your pet to the bowl by using it for several meals before your trip. A travel water bottle with a dispenser will help your pet access a drink while on the go and prevent spills.

Calming Treats and Supplies

Some pets do not travel well, and if you are concerned about your pet's comfort, consider bringing along some favorite toys or relaxation supplies. For example, spraying blankets with calming scents that resemble the pheromones cats and dogs naturally produce to stay calm is helpful. Anti-anxiety medication prescribed by a veterinarian can also alleviate your pet's stress.

Medication and Food

Taking a pet on vacation does not mean a break from its medication or usual food. Make sure to bring along a supply of medicine to last the entire period you are away and do not forget to pack your pet's regular food. Neglecting to do this may force you to feed something that could cause digestive upset.

Potty Pads and Litter

The stress of traveling could cause your dog to have an accident but bringing along training pads can reduce the risk of staining a hotel room carpet. For cats, purchase a disposable litterbox and bring along some plastic bags filled with litter, including some from your cat's home box that has a familiar aroma for encouragement.

Consult with a veterinarian at Pet Hospitals of Hawaii for pet travel advice to keep any pet safe and happy so that you can enjoy your time together.