Ever scrolled through Instagram and seen a celebrity casually jet-setting with their dog in a designer tote or their cat peeking out of a private jet window? Sure, it looks glamorous. But beneath the glam, there’s actually a lot we can learn about pet travel from these famous faces.
Celebs often have the resources to do it right, and luckily, many of their habits are totally doable for the rest of us—no entourage or hours of puppy training needed.
They Plan Like Pros (No, Really)
While it might look spontaneous when Chrissy Teigen posts a selfie with her French bulldog at LAX, there’s usually a whole system behind that cute pic. Good pet travel starts with solid prep. Airlines have rules—lots of them. From pet carrier dimensions to vaccination records, missing one detail can ruin a trip fast.
Take it from stars like Justin Theroux, who’s been spotted flying with his rescue dog Kuma. In interviews, he’s mentioned how he checks flight requirements ahead of time and keeps Kuma’s paperwork handy. The American Kennel Club lays out what airlines expect and how to keep your dog safe in the air. It’s not just about booking a ticket—it’s about making sure your pet is comfortable, safe, and allowed on board in the first place.
Comfort is King
Celebrities don’t skimp on comfort, and neither should you. When Taylor Swift travels with her cats, they’re not in cheap plastic crates—they’re in padded, breathable carriers that look more like chic gym bags. But it’s not about style. It’s about making sure pets feel secure.
A comfy pet is a calm pet. That means packing their favorite blanket, a chew toy, maybe even a worn t-shirt that smells like you. According to the Humane Society, familiar scents can ease anxiety and help your pet relax, whether you’re flying or road-tripping.
They Stick to a Routine
This one’s easy to overlook. Celebs who travel often with pets—like Kaley Cuoco with her ever-growing pack of rescue dogs—tend to stick to a routine. Same feeding times, same walking schedule, even on the road. Why? Because pets crave consistency.
Changing time zones, new smells, weird hotel rooms—it’s all a lot for a pet to handle. Maintaining a bit of their normal routine can go a long way in helping them stay grounded. Try your best to keep things familiar when you’re traveling with a furry friend.
What It All Boils Down To
Celebrities might have assistants booking their flights and stylists packing their carry-ons, but the core of good pet travel isn’t about luxury—it’s about effort. They prep early. They prioritize their pets’ comfort. They don’t treat travel like a break from being a responsible pet parent. And neither should we.
So next time you see a celeb toting their pup through an airport, don’t just roll your eyes. Take notes. They might be onto something.
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