Have to travel with your pet? Reality is, you might be feeling more anxious than your four-legged companion. Here is how to say goodbye to travel stress.

You might have traveled with your pet before, or you might have not, but in any case traveling with a pet might be stressful. Worrying about your pet’s health and needs may take a toll on you. Here is a checklist for you to prepare for the trip in advance to have it go as smooth as possible.

Be prepared in advance

Start by looking up some vet clinics near the place where you will be staying at your destination. Should anything happen to your pet, you would want to know where to go in advance. Prepare all the paperwork your pet might need, make copies, and pack them in a sealed zip lock bag. Make sure you pack some familiar objects for your pet that will help her manage the stress of a new place: blankets, toys, or sleeping beds. One toy that we really like is Helmet video monitor that has a built-in laser beam that pets go crazy about. It’s easy to just plug it and play anywhere, and you can watch your pet from your smartphone when you have to leave her alone.

Create space and comfort

If you are traveling by car, never allow your pet to roam freely in it. It is not safe for your pet. Instead, use a crate or a carrier that is big enough for your pet. Secure the crate/carrier with the seat belts. Always keep your pets in the back seats for safety reasons. If your pet is shedding heavily, you might want to cover the back seats with a cloth or special car canopy. If you are flying, having your pet in the cabin is preferable. This ensures better oxygen intake and less stress from unfamiliar surroundings.

Don’t forget about your pet’s needs

If you are going on a long car ride, don’t forget to make frequent stops for your pet to exercise and eliminate waste. You should also have water and food with you. You can bring a bowl for water and offer it at every pit stop, or look up non spill travel bowls for water. You can also offer ice instead of water. Remember to never leave your pet alone in the car, and never place them in the car trunk.