Traveling with Your Canine Co-Pilots

Welcome to the Wings NW Real Estate blog series—where we mix a little Northwest lifestyle, a dash of humor, and just enough home wisdom to make you the star of your next neighborhood BBQ. From backyard projects to big adventures, we’ve got tips, tricks, and maybe a troll sighting or two along the way.

Traveling with dogs can be one of the most rewarding adventures you’ll ever have. Whether you’re planning a road trip with your pup or flying with pets for the first time, a little preparation makes all the difference. After all, your four-legged co-pilot deserves a smooth journey too.

Here’s how to make your trip safe, fun, and tail-waggingly unforgettable.

Step 1: Pre-Trip Prep for Pets

Before you hit the road or board a flight, check a few essentials:

• Vet Visit: Ensure vaccinations and health checks are up to date.

• Health Certificate: Many airlines require one within 10 days of travel.

• ID & Microchip: Because adventures are fun, but “lost dog” posters are not.

(Pro tip: TSA PreCheck doesn’t apply to pets—but good manners and paperwork do.)

Step 2: Pack Like a Pro

Think of this as your dog’s carry-on:

• Food, water & collapsible bowls (we have collapsible bowls to share- just ask!)

• Leash, harness & waste bags

• Favorite blanket or toy for comfort

• Medications if needed

Bonus points if you pack snacks for yourself, too.

Step 3: Road Trip vs. Flying with Pets

Not all dogs travel the same way. Some thrive on road trips—nose out the window, ears flapping—while others prefer quieter journeys.

• Car Travel: Always use a safety harness or crate. No “lap driving” allowed.

• Flying with Pets: Airlines have strict rules about pet sizes and carriers. If you’re flying private or piloting your own small plane, secure your pup in a crate or harness for safety.  We also recommend protective ear covers.

(And if your co-pilot prefers long naps in big backyards over turbulence, Wings NW Real Estate can help you find the perfect landing spot.)

Step 4: Plan Pit Stops

Nobody likes being stuck in one spot for hours—least of all your pup. On a road trip, schedule breaks every couple of hours for water, exercise, and bathroom time. If you’re flying, give your dog a chance to stretch before boarding and after landing.  

Step 5: Pick Dog-Friendly Destinations

More hotels, towns, and even airports are welcoming pets these days. Apps like BringFido make it easy to find dog-friendly spots. Bonus: some places even offer “yappy hours” for social pups.

Of course, the ultimate dog-friendly destination? A home with a yard they can call their own. (And yes, Wings NW Real Estate knows a few.)

Step 6: Embrace the Adventure

Will there be muddy paw prints in the rental car? Probably. Will your dog shed on the hotel bed? Absolutely. But that’s all part of the story. Dogs don’t care about traffic jams or flight delays—they just care about being with you. And that makes every journey better.  We highly recommend bringing a small but mighty cleaning kit so you leave any rentals cleaner than you found them.  Pro-tip:  Packing tape works wonders for removing pet hair from rental car seats!

Final Approach

Traveling with dogs takes a little extra planning, but it pays off in joy, memories, and maybe a few hilarious travel stories. So grab the leash, fuel up (car, plane, or treat bag), and get ready for an adventure you and your canine co-pilot won’t forget.

And when it’s time to return to base? Wings NW Real Estate is here to help you and your four-legged navigator find the perfect Northwest nest to call home.