Ultimate Pet Travel Checklist: How to Prepare Your Pet for Flight

Written By Kelcey Shafer

Travel Day Is Fast Approaching

We know preparing for a big move can be overwhelming — from packing bags to purging old belongings. That’s why Pet Travel Management and Consulting (PTMC) recommends keeping a simple pet travel checklist to ensure both you and your pet are ready for takeoff.

Below, we’ve gathered our best pet travel tips and tricks to help your companion have a smooth, comfortable, and safe travel day — whether they’re flying across the country or internationally.

Pet Travel Tips and Tricks

Bedding

Use a lightweight blanket, a towel made of breathable cotton material, or a crate travel mat. Alternatively, place a puppy training pad underneath for extra padding and cleanliness.

Nail Care

Clip your pet’s nails prior to travel. Short nails help prevent snagging or injury during transit.

Food

Let PTMC know about any food allergies in advance. You can send a small amount of dry kibble (up to 2 cups / 16 ounces per pet) in a clear bag. This will be offered during any transit stop or flight delay.

Feeding Schedule

Pets must travel on an empty stomach. Avoid feeding your pet for 5–6 hours before departure to reduce travel sickness and ensure a more comfortable journey.

Water

Add ice cubes to your pet’s crate bowls. The ice will melt slowly, providing continuous hydration throughout the flight. You can also freeze water in the bowls the night before and attach them to the crate prior to collection.

Preventing Dehydration in Pets During Air Travel

It’s common for pets to arrive a little dehydrated after flying. Aircraft holds are dry environments, and some pets may not drink while in transit. For older cats and dogs, consult your veterinarian about administering subcutaneous fluids before travel to keep them hydrated throughout the flight.

Preventing Bloat or Stomach Torsion in Dogs

Large, deep-chested dogs are prone to bloat (gastric dilation-volvulus), which can occur after arrival when dogs eat, drink, or run while excited. To help prevent this:

  • Use a slow feeder when feeding your dog after arrival. Start with ½ their normal serving and gradually return to a full portion over 48 hours.

  • Limit water intake initially, offering small amounts and increasing slowly over 48 hours.

  • Avoid excessive exercise or running until your pet calms down after greeting you.

Familiar Items for Comfort

Skip the toys — they can become choking hazards. Instead, include a small article of clothing (like an old T-shirt, sock, or towel) that smells like you and hasn’t been recently washed. Familiar scents can provide comfort during travel.

Leash, Collar, or Harness

Leashes, collars, or harnesses can travel with your pet in a plastic pouch attached to the crate or clipped through the windows. However, since these items travel at the owner’s risk, avoid sending anything of sentimental or significant value.

Pet Medication Guidelines

If your pet takes daily medication, inform PTMC ahead of time.

  • Medication must be in the original prescription bottle or box, with a vet note indicating the last dose.

  • Only send what’s required for the duration of travel.

  • Sedatives or anti-anxiety medications are not allowed, as they can be dangerous during flight.

GPS Tracking Devices

Do not attach Apple AirTags or other GPS trackers to your pet’s crate or collar. Airlines require pets to pass through security screening, and any tracking devices will be removed before acceptance as secured cargo.

Important Note on Personal Items

All additional items travel at the owner’s risk. Avoid sending items of significant or sentimental value — bedding may be discarded if soiled, and agents or airlines are not responsible for lost belongings.

Sedation and Air Travel Safety

Pets should never be sedated for air travel. High altitude can amplify the effects of sedatives, causing dehydration, confusion, and fear. In fact, sedation is the number one cause of in-flight complications, and airlines will not accept liability for animals that are sedated.

If your pet tends to be anxious, natural calming aids such as Adaptil or Rescue Remedy (for dogs) or Feliway pheromone spray (for cats) are safe alternatives. Gentle exercise before travel can also help reduce stress.

Final Thoughts

Preparing for your pet’s travel day doesn’t have to be stressful. With the right checklist, a calm routine, and professional guidance from Pet Travel Management and Consulting, your pet can arrive safely, comfortably, and ready to reunite with you at your destination.

Learn more about our Timeline + Health Certificate + Endorsement + Import Permit + Transportation Services on our website.

Kelcey Shafer