How to Prepare Your Pet for Summer Travel

Summer travel can be exciting, but it can also bring changes to your pet’s routine, environment, and stress level. Before leaving Salinas or heading out for a longer trip, scheduling a pet wellness exam is one of the best ways to make sure your dog or cat is ready for the road.

During a wellness visit, we can check your pet’s overall health, review vaccines, discuss parasite prevention, and address any concerns that could make travel harder. Even if your pet seems healthy, a pre-travel exam can help catch issues early and give you peace of mind before you leave.

Make Sure Vaccines and Preventive Care Are Current

Many boarding facilities, hotels, groomers, dog parks, and travel destinations require pets to be up to date on certain vaccines. If your pet will be around other animals, this becomes even more important.

A summer travel wellness exam gives us a chance to confirm your pet’s vaccine status and recommend prevention for fleas, ticks, heartworms, and other parasites. Warmer weather can increase exposure to pests, especially if your trip includes hiking, camping, beaches, or visits to unfamiliar outdoor spaces.

Pack a Pet Travel Bag

Having the right supplies can make summer travel smoother for both you and your pet. Before you leave, prepare a travel bag with the essentials so you are not scrambling on the way out.

Your pet’s travel kit may include:

• Food, treats, and bottled water 
• Food and water bowls 
• Medications and prescription instructions 
• Vaccine records or health documents 
• Leash, harness, collar, and ID tags 
• Waste bags, litter supplies, or cleaning wipes 
• Comfort items such as a blanket or favorite toy 

Keeping these items organized can help reduce stress and make it easier to care for your pet while away from home.

Plan for Heat and Hydration

Summer heat can be dangerous for pets, especially during long car rides, outdoor activities, or travel to warmer areas. Dogs and cats can overheat quickly, and some pets are more sensitive than others, including seniors, puppies, kittens, overweight pets, and flat-faced breeds.

Always keep fresh water available, offer regular breaks, and never leave your pet alone in a parked car. Even a short stop can become unsafe when temperatures rise. If your pet is panting heavily, drooling, weak, or acting disoriented, it may be a sign of overheating and should be taken seriously.

Keep Your Pet Comfortable During the Trip

Travel can be stressful for pets who are not used to changes in routine. Before a long drive, help your pet get comfortable with their carrier, crate, or harness. Short practice trips can also help reduce anxiety.

If your pet gets carsick or nervous while traveling, bring it up during their wellness exam. We can discuss safe options based on your pet’s age, health history, and travel plans. Avoid giving human medications unless they have been specifically recommended by a veterinarian.

Know Where to Find Veterinary Care

Before traveling, look up veterinary hospitals near your destination and along your route. This is especially helpful if your pet has a chronic condition, takes medication, or has had recent health concerns.

Our team can also help you prepare by reviewing your pet’s medical needs before you go. With the right planning, summer travel can be safer, more comfortable, and more enjoyable for your pet.

To schedule a wellness exam before your summer travel plans, contact Animal Hospital of Salinas in Salinas, CA by calling (831) 346-0600.