As summer kicks off across Victoria, many people are heading out for a well-earned break, and for plenty of pet owners, that means bringing their animal companions along for the ride. Whether you’re travelling to the coast, flying to another country, or simply enjoying a few days away with family, a little extra planning goes a long way in keeping your pets safe and comfortable. Hampton Park Veterinary Hospital helps pet owners prepare for travel with confidence. Use this travel checklist to ensure a smooth holiday journey for you and your pet.
What to Pack for Your Pet
Here’s a handy list to guide your packing.
Essentials
- Lead, harness, and collar with ID tags
- Your pet’s usual food and bowls
- Bottled water and portable water bowls
- Litter tray and litter (for cats) or poo bags (for dogs)
- Medications
- Flea, tick, and worming preventatives
- Vaccination certificate and medical history
Comfort Items
- Their bed or a familiar blanket
- Favourite toys or chews
- Treats for the journey
- Crate or secure carrier for safe car travel
- Pet-safe sunscreen (especially for light-coloured or thin-coated dogs)
First Aid Kit
Include bandages, pet-safe wipes, tweezers (for ticks), and any vet-recommended items.
Planning a Trip with a Pet
Prepare for the Car Ride
Make sure your pet is safely restrained using a harness, crate, or pet barrier as required by Victorian road safety laws. For dogs, plan stopping every 2–3 hours to let them stretch, hydrate, and relieve themselves.
Check Pet Policies Before Booking
Not all accommodation is pet-friendly, and rules vary widely. Always check:
- Pet size or breed restrictions
- Additional cleaning fees
- On-leash requirements or fenced yard access
Also, confirm that your holiday destination allows pets on public beaches, walking trails, and parks.
Update Microchip Details
Before you go, double-check that your pet’s microchip details are current, especially your mobile number and emergency contacts.
Health Certificates
If you’re travelling interstate or using boarding or pet-sitting services during your trip, many will require up-to-date vaccinations or health records. Hampton Park Veterinary Hospital is able to issue travel certificates through the Australian Quarantine Inspection Service (AQIS) for pets flying to other countries.
Hot Weather Hazards to Avoid
Summertime travel in Australia comes with its own set of dangers for pets
- Never leave pets in a parked car, even with windows cracked, as it can become deadly in minutes.
- Avoid walking on hot pavement or sand; early mornings or evenings are best.
- Watch for heatstroke signs: heavy panting, drooling, lethargy, vomiting, or collapse.
- Be alert to snakes or insects in bushland or campgrounds.
If you’re unsure about what safety supplies you might need for your specific destination, our veterinary professionals can help!
Veterinary Exams for Pet Travel in Hampton Park, VIC
Your pet is part of the family, and with the right preparation, they can enjoy a safe and relaxing holiday right alongside you. Whether you’re road-tripping through Victoria or planning a longer summer getaway, Hampton Park Veterinary Hospital is here to make sure your pet stays healthy wherever the season takes you.
Hampton Park Veterinary Hospital performs travel certificate exams for pets in Hampton Park, including cats and dogs from Lynbrook, Narre Warren South, Lyndhurst, and nearby areas in Victoria. Planning a trip? Contact us to book a travel check-up or get advice on pet-friendly travel.
