Traveling with pets by car, plane and public transport presents welfare challenges that can be managed with proper preparation.
Pet travel welfare depends heavily on the mode of transport and quality of preparation. Airline cargo transport represents the highest-risk scenario - temperature extremes, low oxygen, noise and vibration in cargo holds cause distress and can be fatal, particularly for brachycephalic breeds. Cabin travel where permitted for small animals is significantly safer but stressful without acclimation. Car travel is manageable for most pets when properly prepared - crate trained dogs that associate their carrier with positive experiences travel far better than those for whom the crate signals only veterinary visits. Pharmaceutical and pheromone-based anti-anxiety interventions from veterinarians can significantly improve the welfare of anxious travelers. The fundamental principle is preparation: pets that experience travel early and positively are the best travelers.