Checklist
Traveling with your dog for the first time?
Cue the excitement… and the mild panic. 😅
Between TSA lines, tail wags, and “Wait, where’s the health certificate?” moments, it’s easy to forget the essentials. Don’t worry, we’ve got your back (and your dog’s carry-on).
Here’s your quick, sanity-saving list before takeoff.
🐶 The Dog-Parent Flight Checklist
Health Certificate: Required by most airlines, ask your vet at least 10 days before travel.
Collapsible Water Bowl: Because hydration is key, and your dog deserves in-flight service.
Comfort Toy or Blanket: Something that smells like home, the canine version of noise-canceling headphones.
Chew Treat for Takeoff: Keeps jaws busy and ears popping. Bonus: less barking, more chewing.
Pee Pad & Waste Bags: Trust us… better to have it and not need it.
Extra Leash: One gets lost, the other saves your sanity.
Calming Spray or Wipes: Optional but golden, especially if your dog gives side-eye to turbulence.
Emergency Vet Contacts: Print and save on your phone. Just in case.
Aisha’s Story
When Snout parent Aisha prepped her doodle, Coco, for a 6-hour flight from L.A. to New York, she was nervous but determined.
She followed this exact checklist, complete with pre-flight sniff breaks, chew toy trials, and a quick “mock boarding” at home (Coco’s crate sat on the living room rug while airplane sounds played on YouTube 😅).
Result? Coco snoozed for most of the flight, woke up only once for a treat, and even got a “What a well-behaved pup!” from the flight attendant.
Proof that preparation (and snacks) make perfect.
What's your biggest pre-flight worry?
- The paperwork panic - "Did I actually print that health certificate?"
- The potty problem - "Please don't poop at the gate...please!"
- The carry-on chaos - "How does my dog have more stuff than I do?"
- The in-flight fidgeting - "Will they nap, or narrate the flight?"
- Other (tell us your travel tale by replying to this email!)
What’s your biggest “Out & About” challenge?
We’d love to feature real stories from the Snout Pack, you can click this link and let us know!
What’s a good Dog Friendly Carry-On?
Worried your carrier might not fit under the seat? Parker & Co’s Airline-Approved Travel Pet Carrier takes the guesswork out of flying with your pup. Check it out and see if it’s the right fit for your next trip.”
