Pet travel by car involves more than just loading the animal in the vehicle and motoring off, especially if you will be driving long distances or plan to be away for a long time. Whether traveling with pets by private car, limousine, or a commercial car service, there are things to keep in mind to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip. Here are a few pet travel by car tips to help you prepare for a smooth and safe trip:

1. The best place for an animal travelling inside a vehicle is riding inside a crate or secured into another device that keeps them safe in the event of an accident, traversing sharp turns or coming to an abrupt stop. The crate should be large enough for your pet to stand, sit, lie down and turn around in. Secure your pet’s crate so it will not slide or shift in the event of an abrupt stop. If you decide to forgo the crate, don’t allow your pet to ride with his head outside the window, and always keep him in the back seat in a harness attached to a seat buckle. Keeping your pet in the back seat of the car will prevent possible injury if an airbag deploys while your pet is in the passenger seat (even in a crate).
2. Most cats aren’t comfortable traveling in cars, so for their safety as well as yours, keep them in a carrier. It’s important to restrain these carriers in the car so that they don’t bounce around and hurt your cat. Do this by securing a seat belt around the front of the carrier.
3. If you’re going on a long road trip prep your pet by taking him on a series of short drives first, gradually lengthening time spent in the car. If you’re traveling across state lines and especially if visiting national parks and campgrounds, bring along your pet’s rabies vaccination record. While this generally isn’t a problem, some states require this proof at certain interstate crossings.
4. Bring food, a bowl, leash, a waste scoop, plastic bags, grooming supplies, medication and first-aid, and any travel documents. Pack a favorite toy or pillow to give your pet a sense of familiarity. Be sure to pack plenty of water, and avoid feeding your pet in a moving vehicle. Your pet’s travel-feeding schedule should start with a light meal three to four hours prior to departure, and always opt for bottled water. Dog-Gear recommends to get a special portable travel bottle for your pet!
5. Stop frequently to allow your pet to exercise and eliminate. But, never permit your pet to leave the car without a collar, ID tag and leash.
6. Never leave your animal alone in a parked vehicle. On a hot day, your vehicle can quickly reach temperature that puts your pet at risk of serious illness an even death, even on a day that doesn’t seem hot to you. And cracking the windows makes no difference. In cold weather, a car can act as a refrigerator, holding in the cold and causing the animal to freeze to death.

Pet Friendly Bus and Motor Coach Service

Trailways
Trailways, founded in 1936, is North America’s largest network of independent motorcoach operators, serving more than 900 destinations across the U.S. and Canada. Known for its safe, affordable, and eco-friendly transportation, the company also partners with Amtrak, Greyhound, and Peter Pan Bus Lines to offer extended travel options. While Amtrak and Peter Pan have pet-friendly policies, Greyhound doesn’t.

Peter Pan Bus Lines
Based in Massachusetts, Peter Pan Bus Lines allows small dogs or cats (no other pets allowed) on board all their motor coaches. Pet owners must provide a pet carrier. The combined weight of the pet and the carrier may not exceed 25 pounds.

Trailways of New York
Based in New York, Trailways of New York allows small pets weighing up to 25 pounds, including their carrier, to travel with passengers for a $10 fee. The carrier must fit under the seat and be no larger than 18 inches long, 11 inches wide, and 9 inches high. Pets are not permitted on trips crossing an international border or on trips which require a transfer to another bus company.

Further Information

Traveling With Pets? Follow These Expert Dos and Don’ts to Keep Them Safe – ASPCA
By planning ahead, you can make sure your journey is safe and comfortable for you and your pet.

A Guide to Pet-Friendly Rental Cars
Find out what car rental companies allow dogs in the US.

Are Dogs Allowed in Rental Cars?
Find pet policies for major rental car companies.

What You Need to Know About Dog Car Restraints
Pet restraint laws vary across the Northeast. Learn how to keep your pet safe and lower the risk of distraction.

Everything To Know About Safely Traveling With a Puppy
What to know about traveling with a puppy so it goes as smoothly as possible.

How to Select the Best Dog Car Seat – Pros & Cons
If you’re traveling with your dog continually jumping on the back seat and trying to climb into your leap, you know how dangerous and distracting that can be. How can you solve this issue?

Best Pet Travel Products
Including dog car seats, dog car seat covers, dog travel kennels, dog ramps and travel bowls for pet food.