🐾 5 Dangerous Pet Travel Habits to Avoid (And What to Do Instead)

Updated: Jul 27

Because good intentions aren’t always enough.

*You’d never put your pet in danger on purpose—but many well-meaning pet owners unknowingly do. Let’s talk about what’s putting pets at risk, and how to travel smarter.*

🚨 The Truth: Pet Travel Isn’t Always Safe

Every year, pets are injured—or worse—because of avoidable travel mistakes. Many of these animals were loved and cared for, but even small oversights can put pets at risk during car rides, flights, or long-distance relocations.

This guide is here to help you make safer, more informed decisions when traveling with your furry companion—whether you're doing it yourself or considering a trusted professional.

📥 Want a free printable travel checklist? Click here to download our Pet Travel Safety Checklist!

❌ 5 Common (and Dangerous) Travel Habits

🚗 Cute but risky: An unrestrained dog becomes a projectile in a crash—and is just as distracting as texting while driving. — 🚗 *Cute but risky: An unrestrained dog becomes a projectile in a crash—and is just as distracting as texting while driving.*

Habit #1 - Letting Pets Ride Loose in the Car

Why it’s risky:

A pet pacing the car or climbing into your lap while you are driving may seem harmless—but it only takes a moment of distraction to cause a crash that ends in tragedy for you, your pet, or both. At just 30 mph, a 20 lb dog can hit with 600 lbs of force—that’s like being struck by a vending machine or a piano in motion.

Why it happens:

It feels easier, owners want their pet to feel comfortable, or they underestimate the risk of short rides.

What to do instead:

Always use a crash-tested, certified restraint—such as a safety harness, pet travel crate, or hard-sided carrier—secured in the back seat, the cargo area of an SUV, or on the floor behind the front seat. Whenever possible, choose a spot closer to the center of the vehicle for added protection.

Avoid placing your pet in the front seat, and never allow them to ride in the open bed of a truck—this is both unsafe and illegal in some states.

Proper restraint keeps your pet safe and reduces distractions.

🐾 Need help choosing travel gear? Browse our favorite products for road and air travel.

📦 Not all crates are created equal—a poor fit or design can put your pet in real danger. — 📦 *Not all crates are created equal—a poor fit or design can put your pet in real danger.*

Habit #2 - Using the Wrong Crate or Carrier

Why it’s risky:

Whether traveling by road or air, the wrong size or type of carrier can put your pet at risk. In a car, a crate that’s too small can restrict movement and airflow, while one that’s too large can cause serious injury—allowing your pet to be thrown against the interior walls during a crash. For road travel, always choose a crash-tested, certified carrier for added protection.

For air travel, a poorly sized or non-compliant carrier may not meet airline requirements for in-cabin use. This could result in denied boarding, missed flights, or stressful last-minute changes. Carriers that lack ventilation, zip closures, or proper under-seat sizing may be turned away at check-in. You can use the AKC’s airline comparison guide to evaluate pet-friendly airlines—but always confirm rules, sizing guidelines, and restrictions directly with your airline before purchasing a carrier.

Why it happens:

Many pet owners don’t realize how much size, ventilation, and structural integrity matter. Others buy based on appearance or price, unaware of the safety risks.

What to do instead:

Choose a crash-tested, certified crate or carrier that’s well-ventilated and just large enough for your pet to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably.

For car travel, secure the carrier in the back seat using tether or anchor straps, or in the cargo area of an SUV using anchor straps. Smaller carriers may be placed on the floor behind the front seat if they fit snugly and can’t slide—anchor straps are recommended when available. Avoid the front seat or truck beds, which pose serious risks in a crash.
For air travel, check your airline’s pet policy to ensure your carrier fits under the seat and meets in-cabin guidelines. Most airlines require soft-sided carriers that zip securely and allow for adequate ventilation. The AVMA’s airline travel FAQ outlines what paperwork you’ll need and how to prepare your pet for flight.

🐾 Need help choosing the right fit? Browse our recommended travel carriers and gear for safe, pet-tested options that meet road and air travel guidelines.

📌 Curious about safety ratings? The Center for Pet Safety offers research and crash-test results to help you understand what sets some carriers apart.

🌡️ “Even with windows cracked, temperatures rise fast—never leave your pet in a parked car.” — 🌡️ *“Even with windows cracked, temperatures rise fast—never leave your pet in a parked car.”*

Habit #3 - Leaving Pets in Parked Cars

Why it’s risky:

A parked car can become a deadly trap in just minutes—even on a mild day. According to the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), on a 70°F day, the interior of a vehicle can rise nearly 20°F in just 10 minutes and over 30°F in 20 minutes; by the hour mark, it can reach over 110°F, even with the windows cracked.

Dogs can’t cool themselves like humans. They rely on panting, which becomes ineffective in hot, still air. Within minutes, a dog left in a parked car can suffer heatstroke, organ failure, or even death.

Leaving the A/C on doesn't guarantee safety—systems can fail, batteries die, or the vehicle could be stolen. Plus, if your pet is in distress, there’s no one there to intervene.

In many states, leaving a pet in a hot car is considered a criminal offense under animal cruelty laws. Some areas even allow bystanders or first responders to forcibly enter a vehicle to rescue an animal in danger. Check your state’s laws.

Why it happens:

Quick errands feel harmless—but the reality is that heatstroke can occur in minutes, and cracking the windows won’t prevent it.

What to do instead:

Never leave your pet unattended in a parked vehicle. Even a short wait can be deadly. If you're traveling solo, plan ahead with curbside pickup, pet-friendly stops, or bring a travel buddy who can stay in the vehicle with your pet.

Look for businesses, rest areas, and restaurants that welcome pets inside or offer designated pet relief areas. Mapping out your route in advance helps reduce the chances you’ll feel forced to leave your pet behind in risky conditions.

🐾 Need help planning your route? Use tools like BringFido.com to find pet-welcoming hotels, restaurants, parks, and attractions along the way.

🥣 “Feeding right before travel? It may cause nausea or vomiting—timing is key.” — 🥣 *“Feeding right before travel? It may cause nausea or vomiting—timing is key.”*

Habit #4 - Feeding Too Close to Departure

Why it’s risky:

Feeding your pet right before travel can lead to motion sickness, vomiting, or diarrhea—especially in a confined space like a crate or carrier. If your pet vomits mid-journey, it can create unsanitary, stressful conditions and increase the risk of choking or aspiration. It also makes for a very unpleasant experience for both your pet and the driver.

During air travel, a mess in the carrier can cause serious discomfort for your pet—and in some cases, excessive mess may even result in denied boarding or removal from the cabin.

Why it happens:

Many pet owners don’t want their companion to travel on an empty stomach, or they forget to factor the feeding schedule into their travel plans. Others worry about disrupting their pet’s usual routine.

What to do instead:

Feed your pet 3 to 4 hours before departure to allow time for digestion and reduce the risk of nausea or vomiting. Offer small amounts of water throughout the trip to keep them hydrated, especially during long journeys.

If your pet has a sensitive stomach or a history of motion sickness, consult your veterinarian before traveling. They may recommend adjusting your feeding schedule further or suggest safe anti-nausea remedies to help your pet stay comfortable throughout the journey.

✈️ Handled like luggage, out of sight and unsupervised—cargo travel can be dangerous for pets. — ✈️ *Handled like luggage, out of sight and unsupervised—cargo travel can be dangerous for pets.*

Habit #5 - Relying on Cargo Flights for Pet Transport

Why it’s risky:

Airline cargo holds are not designed with pets in mind. They can be loud, dark, poorly ventilated, and subject to extreme temperature fluctuations. Pets traveling in cargo are not monitored during the flight—and there’s no way to intervene if they become sick, stressed, or overheated.

Flat-faced (brachycephalic) breeds and young puppies are especially at risk due to breathing limitations, stress sensitivity, and reduced tolerance for temperature changes.

While many pets do travel safely by air, public reports from the U.S. Department of Transportation document pet injuries and fatalities in airline cargo holds every year. These risks increase significantly when flights are delayed, rerouted, or held on the tarmac in extreme temperatures.

Why it happens:

Many owners assume cargo is the only option when airlines recommend it. Others trust that pets will be monitored and well cared for during the flight, not realizing that live animals are often handled like luggage—with no one checking on them mid-flight.

What to do instead:

Avoid cargo transport whenever possible. Choose in-cabin travel for your pet if they meet the airline’s size and weight requirements. Most airlines allow small pets to fly in a soft-sided, ventilated carrier that fits under the seat in front of you.

If you’re not able to fly with your pet, consider hiring a professional flight nanny—a trained companion who escorts your pet in-cabin and ensures they’re never left unattended.

For larger pets or long-distance moves, look into private ground transport that offers climate control, regular check-ins, and personalized care. These services prioritize your pet’s safety, comfort, and emotional well-being throughout the journey.

🐾 Need help planning your pet’s trip?

Visit the TSA Tips on Traveling with Pets page to learn what to expect at airport security
Check the AKC’s Airline Pet Travel Comparison Guide for policies and carrier requirements

🐶 Want Peace of Mind?

At Pawsitively Safe VIP Transport, we’ve built our services to eliminate these risks—because your pet's safety and comfort should never be left to chance.

Here’s what we offer:

✈️ Flight Nanny Service – Your pet flies in-cabin with a trained escort.
🚗 Private Ground Transport – One pet or one household per trip, with climate control, real-time updates, and scheduled stops.
🧼 Pet Taxi (Local) – For shorter trips, pets travel in an approved crate or harness (owner’s choice).
👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Same-Family or Same-Litter Only – We may accommodate multiple pets if they’re from the same household—or multiple puppies from the same litter if all new owners consent.
🧾 Certified, USDA Compliant, Insured – Plus trained in Dog & Cat First Aid.
💬 Text and Photo Updates – Real-time communication to keep you in the loop throughout the journey.

📎 Helpful Travel Resources

🧳 Recommended Carriers & Travel Gear
Explore safe, crash-tested products vetted for both road and air travel.
✈️ AKC Guide to Airlines for Pet Travel
A comprehensive comparison of airline pet policies, fees, and carrier requirements.

🩺 Find a Vet Near You
Veterinary State Board Directory – Links to state veterinary licensing boards where you can find licensed local veterinarians.
FirstVet – Access licensed vets via convenient online video consults for remote health guidance.

📥 Download Your Free Pet Travel Safety Checklist

Want to make sure you’re fully prepared for your next trip?

🎁 Grab our Free Pet Travel Checklist and start planning with confidence: [Download the PDF]

📅 Request a custom quote today and transport your pet with confidence.

Whether you’re traveling yourself or looking for a reliable partner to handle the journey for you, we’re here to help every step of the way!

💛 Final Thoughts: Planning Ahead Pays Off

A little preparation goes a long way—especially when you’re traveling with pets. Taking the time to map your route, pack with intention, and plan your pet’s meals and breaks can turn a potentially stressful trip into a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone involved.

Most of all, remember: your pet looks to you for reassurance. When you’re calm, confident, and prepared, they feel more secure too.

We hope this guide empowers you with the clarity and peace of mind you need to make every journey a positive one. If you ever need help planning, we’re only a message away!

Here’s to safe travels, happy tails, and memories made along the way. 🐾

Sincerely,

The Pawsitively Safe VIP Team

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