Frisco summers are built for road trips, weekend escapes, and soaking up the sun by the water, but if your travel plans include a pet, some extra prep will be needed. Whether you're heading to a nearby lake, flying across the country, or taking a quick family trip, traveling with a dog or cat during summer requires smart planning. TruVet Pet Hospital helps pet owners across Frisco and North Texas gear up for safe, stress-free adventures by starting with prevention and preparation.

Protect Your Pet Against Heatstroke

Texas heat can be unforgiving, and pets don’t have the same tools we do to keep cool. When the weather gets too hot, your dog or cat may be at risk of heat exhaustion or even life-threatening heatstroke.

Heat Safety Travel Tips

• Never leave your pet alone in a parked vehicle
• Use AC consistently during car rides
• Plan potty breaks and walks during cooler parts of the day
• Offer cool water frequently and use travel-safe bowls
• Monitor for signs of overheating: rapid panting, drooling, lethargy, or vomiting

If you notice any symptoms that your pet may be suffering from heatstroke or another heat-related medical event, move them to a cool space and contact a veterinarian for emergency services. It’s best practice to check for the closest options before bringing your pet out with you on a trip, even if your destination is just a short drive away!

Water Safety with Lakes, Pools & Pet Risks

Frisco pet owners love taking their dogs to lakes and pools, but not every dog is water-savvy. Even confident canine swimmers can struggle with strong currents or deep water.

Water Safety Reminders

• Always supervise your dog near water
• Use a life vest, especially for boating or deep water swimming
• Don’t let pets drink lake or pool water; bring clean water with you
• Rinse and dry your dog after swimming to remove chlorine or bacteria
• Dry ears to avoid infections, especially for floppy-eared breeds

If your pet is nervous around water, skip the swim and keep them supervised and on shore with plenty of shade.

Pet Parasites Can Be Uninvited Travel Guests

Warm weather and travel increase your pet’s exposure to fleas, ticks, and mosquitoes, parasites that carry dangerous diseases like Lyme, Ehrlichia, and heartworm.

Before You Travel

• Make sure your pet is on monthly heartworm prevention
• Use flea and tick control recommended by your vet
• Pack enough doses for long trips
• Avoid tall grass and stagnant water where parasites thrive

Even indoor pets are at risk during travel. Parasites can hitch a ride into your car, bag, or hotel room.

Health Certificates & Travel Readiness

Planning to cross state lines, fly, or stay at a pet-friendly hotel? You’ll likely need a veterinary health certificate, which confirms your pet is healthy and up to date on all vaccinations.

What to Do Before Traveling with Pets

• Make sure vaccines like rabies, distemper, FVRCP, and others are current
• Pack a travel kit: meds, records, food, leash, carrier, and ID tags
• Research emergency vets near your destination, just in case
• If needed, contact a USDA-certified vet for a health certificate

Start plans as early as possible, especially if your pet is going to need a health certificate. Some states and countries have intense requirements that may require weeks or even months to fulfill.

Plan for Pet Travel in Frisco, TX

Summer adventures should be full of memories, not mishaps. Whether you’re off to the beach, hiking trails, or flying for a family reunion, a little planning and preventive care go a long way. TruVet Pet Hospital has veterinary services, including health certificates, for pets in Frisco and from nearby areas like Phillips Creek Ranch, Little Elm, and The Colony. Contact us to schedule your pet’s appointment.