Must-Have Service Dog Travel Gear & Essentials

Preparation is Key

Traveling with a dog, especially a service dog, can be a daunting task. With proper preparation, however, you can make the experience smoother for both you and your pup. Whether you're flying, cruising, or riding the rails, here's everything you need to know about staying ready and well-equipped!

Basic Essentials for All Travel

• Water and Bowls

  • Hydration is key! Bring collapsible bowls and make sure your dog has access to good water throughout the journey.

• Food and Bowls

  • Ration food properly. For long trips, pack enough food for each feeding. Even for day trips, having snacks or treats handy can help with training and rewards.

• First Aid Kit

  • A must-have for both you and your dog, a well-stocked first aid kit can make all the difference in an emergency, turning a potentially scary situation into one you’re prepared for.

• Poop Bags

  • Cleaning up after your dog is essential in public spaces. Be sure to carry plenty of bags.

• Sleep/Calming Aids

  • Particularly useful during flights, these can help your dog stay calm in stressful situations.

Must-Have Accessories

• Collar and Leash

  • A simple, easy-to-use collar and leash combination is best for quick potty breaks and general travel. Avoid anything too complicated.

• Harness

  • A lightweight harness that can be worn for long periods and removed quickly is ideal. You want to prioritize your dog's comfort over long distances, as well as avoiding bulky accessories.

Important Documentation

• Service Dog ID

  • We would like to emphasize that ID cards for service animals are not legally endorsed or required, but having an ID card for your service dog can make things easier during travel.

• U.S. Department of Transportation Service Animal Air Transportation Form

  • Required for flights. Most airlines will ask for this, so be sure to contact them beforehand and have everything filled out before you arrive.

• Vaccination/Health Records

  • These may be needed in some special cases, such as international travel or when crossing certain state borders. Always check ahead to avoid surprises.

Travel Requirements by Mode of Transportation:

• Planes

  • What You’ll Need:

    • All of the basic gear outlined above.

    • Calming aids or meds if needed.

    • A crate if your dog isn’t flying in the cabin.

    • The US DOT Form (most airlines will require this, so contact them for details).

    • Potty pads, just in case relief areas aren’t accessible.

• Cruise Ships

  • Essentials:

    • Make sure to pack enough food, as finding dog food on a cruise can be challenging.

    • Potty pads will be important since you won’t have regular access to outdoor relief areas.

    • You’ll need to fill out paperwork before traveling—contact the cruise line to confirm what’s required.

• Trains

  • For Train Travel

    • You’ll need basic gear, but bear in mind that on some services, like Amtrak, potty pads are not allowed onboard. Be prepared to walk your dog during stops.

    • Lightweight gear is essential for cramped quarters.

    • Touch base with the service you choose, in order to see if they have any specific requirements for service animals.

• International Travel

  • The Most Important Step:

    • Always check the laws of the country you’re traveling to. You’ll need to ensure your dog’s vaccinations are up-to-date and have health certificates on hand. Research whether your dog will face quarantine or other restrictions upon arrival.

    • Consider packing extra food and flea medications for long trips.

Smooth Travels with Your Service Dog

With the right gear, careful planning, and understanding of each travel requirement, your trips will be more enjoyable and less stressful for both you and your service dog. Stay prepared, stay safe, and happy travels!

photo credit: Helena lopes on pexels