Traveling soon Whether you are heading out for a weekend getaway or a longer vacation, preparing your pet ahead of time is one of the best ways to ensure they stay healthy, comfortable, and stress free while you are away.

At Island Life Animal Hospital, we often help pet owners get ready for boarding or pet sitting by reviewing vaccines, preventive care, and travel readiness. Use this guide to help make your next trip easier for both you and your pet.

1 Make Sure Your Pet’s Vaccines Are Up to Date

Most boarding facilities and many professional pet sitters require proof of current vaccinations. Even if your pet will be staying at home, staying up to date protects them from unexpected exposure to illness.

Common vaccine requirements include

For Dogs

• Rabies

• DHPP which protects against distemper hepatitis parvo and parainfluenza

• Bordetella also known as kennel cough

• Canine influenza often required or strongly recommended

• Leptospirosis depending on lifestyle and regional risk

For Cats

• Rabies

• FVRCP which protects against feline distemper and upper respiratory viruses

• Feline leukemia recommended for outdoor cats or multi cat households

Helpful tip
Schedule vaccine updates at least one to two weeks before your trip. This allows time for full protection and avoids last minute stress before travel.

If you are unsure what your pet needs, our team at Island Life Animal Hospital is happy to review your pet’s records and make recommendations.

2 Stay Current on Flea Tick and Heartworm Prevention

Boarding facilities and new environments can increase exposure to parasites. Making sure your pet is protected with monthly flea tick and heartworm prevention is especially important before travel.

This is an easy step that helps protect not only your pet, but other animals they may come into contact with while you are away.

3 Pack the Essentials Plus a Few Comfort Items

A well prepared bag can make your pet’s stay more comfortable and reduce anxiety.

Pet boarding packing list

• Enough food for the entire stay plus extra

• Treats

• Medications with clear written instructions

• Collar harness and leash

• Favorite toys or chew items

• A blanket bed or shirt that smells like home

• Feeding schedule and instructions

• Emergency contact information

• Your veterinarian’s contact information

For pets staying at home with a sitter

• Pre measured food and feeding instructions

• Litter waste bags and cleaning supplies

• Medication instructions

• Access instructions for doors gates or alarms

• Notes about your pet’s personality habits and routines

4 Help Reduce Stress Before You Leave

Pets often notice changes in routine especially when packing begins.

To help ease the transition:

• Keep daily routines as normal as possible

• Let your boarding facility or sitter know about anxiety or special needs

• Ask your veterinarian about calming supplements or pheromone products if needed

• Consider a trial day at the boarding facility for nervous pets

5 Leave Clear Instructions and Emergency Information

Clear communication is essential whether your pet is boarding or staying with a sitter.

Be sure to provide:

• Your contact information and travel itinerary

• An emergency contact you trust

• Your pet’s medical history

• Island Life Animal Hospital’s phone number

• Written authorization for emergency treatment if needed

This ensures your pet can receive timely care if something unexpected occurs.

6 Create a Comfortable and Familiar Environment

For boarding pets, familiar items from home can be very reassuring.

For pet sitting, be sure your sitter knows:

• Your pet’s favorite sleeping spots

• What situations cause stress or anxiety

• Daily routines for feeding walks and playtime

• How often dogs should go outside or litter boxes should be scooped

Consistency and predictability help pets feel safe even when you are away.

 

7 Travel With Peace of Mind

With a little preparation, you can enjoy your trip knowing your pet is well cared for and protected.

If you are planning upcoming travel and want help preparing your pet for boarding or pet sitting, the team at Island Life Animal Hospital is here to help. From vaccine updates to preventive care and wellness exams, we are committed to keeping your pet healthy at home and away.

Contact Island Life Animal Hospital today to schedule a wellness visit before your next trip.