Travel check list and packing list

This is the checklist I’ve created for trips with Chloe. I live for checklists. Please note that I don’t bring every item on this list on every trip. It helps me a lot, though, to collect in one place a list of every item I have, at one point or another, been grateful for or wished for.

(My husband would want you to know that he believes Chloe will never, ever need a lifejacket, but he doesn’t write the checklist. Or buy dog gear.)

Before you leave

  • Make travel reservations for your dog
  • Ensure hotel is pet-friendly
  • Ask about mini-fridge if bringing raw food or bones
  • Get health certificate from vet within 10 days of travel
  • Confirm that your copy of your dog’s shot record is current
  • Ensure sufficient supply of prescription medications
  • Identify good local vet and emergency vet
  • Get a temporary ID tag with local address and phone number
  • Print a copy of your airline’s pet policy
  • Get directions to pet relief areas in airports where you have layovers

Carry-on

  • A couple of meal’s worth of food (I carry 1-2 of the tiniest Natural Balance dog food rolls)
  • A collapsible water bowl
  • A water bottle (filled once I’m past security)
  • Chloe’s leash and harness, for unfenced pet relief areas
  • Poop bags
  • Extra-good treats, to coax her back in her carrier en route
  • Health certificate (if needed) and a current copy of Chloe’s shot record
  • Prescription medications
  • Picture of your dog
  • A hand-held fan (a sensible suggestion from a Dog Jaunt reader)

Packing