Traveling with a protection dog may not seem particularly complicated, but there will be some preparation involved. Depending on your mode of travel, there are a few steps you should take to ensure the trip is as comfortable and safe for your dog as possible. Learn what you need to do to make traveling with a protection dog as smooth as it can be.
Pre-Travel Preparation: Get Your Dog Trip-Ready
First things first, your protection dog needs to be healthy and ready for travel. Make an appointment with your vet for a checkup so you know your dog is in good physical shape. Ensure that your dog’s vaccines are up to date, too—especially if you’re crossing state lines, traveling off the mainland, or traveling out of the country. If your dog requires any medication, update that prescription. Get enough of the medication to bring with you, and keep a copy of the prescription with you.
It’s also important to make sure your dog’s ID tags and microchip (if they have one) are updated. That way, in case of separation or an emergency, your protection dog will be as easy to locate as possible. Finally, check with your pet insurance company to verify that your dog can get veterinary care wherever you’re going, should they need it.
Research and Prep for Traveling with a Protection Dog
Once you know where you’re traveling and how you’ll get there, do a little research to confirm that your dog is welcome wherever you’re going. Once you’ve decided on potential flights or accommodations, give advance notice that a protection dog will be with you when making reservations. Here’s what you need to research before you leave on your trip.
Accommodations
Whether you’ll be staying in a hotel, a bed and breakfast, or a vacation rental house, you must call before booking to verify whether dogs are welcome at this location. Be clear that your dog is a protection dog and incredibly well-trained. If your accommodations confirm that they are dog-friendly, find out what requirements they have before arrival. Ask what amenities they offer for your dog, too.
Road Trips
Ensure your vehicle will be safe for your trip by getting a tune-up and oil change so you’re less likely to break down on the road. Your spare tire should be ready to use and you should have all the tools necessary to change your tire if necessary. Be ready to care for yourself and your dog should the unexpected happen on the road. Keep emergency supplies in your car just in case you’re stranded, including some food and water, blankets, flares, and a first aid kit. Keep your phone charged at all times in case you need to call for assistance.
The car should also be comfortable for both of you. Get car seat covers since your dog will be jumping in and out of the car throughout the trip (and they’ll save you if they get carsick). Get a travel crate and/or bed so your dog has a comfortable place to be no matter where you are. Dog seat belts or seat belt harnesses can keep your dog from wandering and keep them safe in the event of a sudden stop.
Air Travel
Each airline has vastly different requirements when it comes to traveling with your dog. As such, carefully review the current requirements and policies on the airline’s website first before making any flight reservations. After that, you still might want to call the airline to find out exactly what’s required to bring your protection dog with you on your flight.
Keep in mind that a protection dog does not have the same allowances as a service dog on a plane, so you can’t assume they’ll be able to come on board with you. Cargo transportation is sometimes necessary, so know the requirements for that, too. Many airlines require that you provide documentation, including vaccination records, health certificates, and more. There may also be an added fee for bringing your protection dog, as well as weight and size requirements to determine how your protection dog can travel on the flight. Be aware of exactly what you’re required to present and bring with you well before your trip.
International Travel
International travel with your protection dog will have many of the same requirements as domestic air travel, with additional vaccine, test, and treatment requirements. A health certificate from your vet is highly recommended and often required for any international travel with your dog. Some countries also require a specific quarantine period for pets. You should be clear on the country’s requirements for traveling with your dog before you leave so that you don’t experience unexpected issues. If you’re struggling to find the right information, contact the animal health officials for the country to which you’re traveling.
Gear for Your Dog’s Safety and Comfort
Once you’ve done your research and you’re ready for travel, it’s time to pack. You need luggage for your trip, and so will your dog. Pack a travel kit for your protection dog so that they have what they need during travel and upon arrival at your destination. Whether you’re taking a road trip or traveling by plane, here’s what to bring in your dog’s travel bag:
● A collapsible water bowl for quick hydration on the go between legs of the trip
● A small amount of dog food (or enough for the trip if it’s not easily found in pet stores)
● Plenty of treats
● Favorite dog toys, blankets, or comfort items to help your dog feel safe and entertained
● Any important documentation, including vet and vaccine records
● Medications, if needed, and a copy of the prescription
● Proof of pet insurance
● A crate (large enough for your dog to stand and turn around in comfortably) or travel bed
● Car seat covers for road trips
● A pet first aid kit, including necessary medications
● A harness and leash
● A dog seat belt
● Anything else required by an airline or your travel destination (like a muzzle)
If your protection dog isn’t accustomed to any of this travel gear—especially the travel crate/bed, harness, muzzle, or collapsible water bowl—give your dog a chance to get used to them before you leave for your trip. Make the trip as easy as possible from the start by walking your dog before you leave, giving them a chance to go to the bathroom, and getting them as comfortable as possible. Stay calm so your protection dog knows that they’re safe and you can be on your way!
About the Author
Steve Scott Owner of https://scottsk9.com/ is a veteran of the US Army. He deployed to numerous foreign countries and lived in Europe, where he was able to form a working relationship with the top protection dog kennels. After his service in the Army, Steve pursued a career in Law Enforcement, earning honors as the head trainer of his Police Department’s K9 Unit.
Steve’s real-world police K9 experience is what sets Scott’s K9 apart from other protection dog companies. With Steve’s dog training expertise and his access to the top European kennels, our Family Protection Dogs and trained Police Dogs are second to none.
As a certified trainer, Steve Scott puts in the time to ensure that your family gets a dog that is safe and social with the family members, but also ready to protect you if the need arises.
