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Travel Tips for Pet Parents

Smart Tips for Clinicians Bringing Pets on Assignment

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When it comes to your pet? Nothing gets overlooked. Because for you, traveling isn’t just about starting a new assignment — it’s about making sure your best friend is safe, comfortable, and by your side every step of the way.

If the thought of leaving your fur baby behind fills you with anxiety, you’re not alone. Good news is, you don’t have to choose between your travel career and your pet’s well-being. With the right prep and a plan you can trust, bringing your pet on assignment can be a stress-free adventure for both of you.

Pet-Friendly Housing
  • Start early. Options shrink fast in popular contract cities. Filter listings or ask your FlexCare recruiter for vetted rentals.
  • Budget for extras. Expect a refundable pet deposit plus $25–$50/mo. pet rent.
  • Map the essentials. Pin 24-hour vets, dog parks, and trails before you hit the road. Share a quick selfie of you and your pet with the landlord—friendly faces help negotiations.

Moving with Your Pet

By Car

  • Do short practice drives, so your pet associates the car with treats.
  • Use a crash-tested harness or carrier secured by a seat belt.
  • Stop every 2–3 hours for water and a stretch. Never leave pets in a parked car, even with windows cracked.

By Air

  • Only fly if driving isn’t possible; cabin spots are limited.
  • Book nonstop, confirm carrier size, and ask your vet about anti-anxiety options.
  • Avoid cargo holds unless your pet is too large for in-cabin travel.

By Train (Amtrak)

  • Cats and dogs up to 20 lbs including carrier are allowed on most U.S. routes; trips must be under seven hours (amtrak.com, articles.hepper.com).
  • Reserve early, pet slots fill quickly.
  • Keep carriers zipped and under the seat.
A clinician carries a box while her leashed dog walks along side
Double-check health and ID
  • Vaccinations and local licenses must be current; carry digital copies.
  • Update your microchip and ID tag with your cell plus an emergency contact.
  • Feed four hours before departure to reduce motion sickness.
  • Pack comfort items: a worn T-shirt, favorite toy, collapsible bowls.
Line up backup care

Even the best-planned schedule can change. Book a trusted sitter via Rover, Care.com, or fellow clinicians before onboarding. Pro tip: add your shifts to the sitter’s calendar to avoid last-minute scrambles.

With a bit of prep, your furry sidekick can turn every assignment into an adventure rather than an obstacle. Plan early, build in extra travel time, and you’ll both be settling into that new contract city, tails wagging and spirits high.

A clinician packs while her cat assists
A clinician packs while her cat assists
Ready to hit the road with your furry sidekick?

FlexCare makes travel nursing easier for pet parents. Start your journey today and discover pet-friendly assignments across the country.

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