How to Travel Safely with a Diabetic Pet
November 9, 2026
If you’re an owner with a diabetic pet, then you’ll understand the importance of consistent and rigid routines when it comes to feeding and insulin. That’s why travelling from Somerset can feel particularly daunting with this added layer of care. However, with the right preparation, it’s completely possible to have a stress-free trip, whether you’re taking your pet with you, or having somebody else look after them. In this article, our Vet Rachel at Nurture covers everything you need to know about how to safely travel with a diabetic dog or cat.
Want to talk to a vet before your trip? Book an appointment at our vet practice in Wells or Weston.
Boarding and pet sitting
Boarding for a diabetic pet can be a lot more complex than with a healthy pet, as regular kennels and pet sitters may not be equipped to administer insulin. Putting your trust in somebody else to keep your pet safe and properly cared for can weigh heavily on an owner, and Rachel explains that this is a completely valid concern, and can feel like one of the hardest burdens of the condition.
However, with the right questions asked and information provided, it’s possible to find the right carer. Read Nurture’s tips below:
If you’d like support putting together a care plan for your sitter, our nursing team in Wells or Weston are happy to help – call us on
Wells 01749 673239 or 01934 511611 01934 511611
.
Put together a written plan for your sitter, covering:
- The insulin name, dose, schedule and storage instructions
- Your pet’s exact food, portion size and feeding schedule
- A log for recording each insulin dose to avoid accidental doubling up
- Red flags that should prompt an immediate call to the vet
- Your contact number, your vet’s number and the nearest emergency vet’s number. Here is our emergency contact.
When finding a pet sitter, ensure they are somebody who is genuinely comfortable giving injections and can recognise hypoglycaemia and act if needed. Rachel recommends an in-person briefing where you can watch them provide an injection before leaving your pet with them.
Travelling with your pet
When travelling together with your pet, Rachel advises planning the trip around insulin schedules. Timing departures and rest stops so that feeding and injection times fall naturally will help to keep your pet’s routine as consistent as possible.
When it comes to travelling with insulin, you’ll need to make sure it stays cold but never freezes, as freezing will destroy its potency. Store your insulin in a cool bag, ensuring it never directly touches an ice pack. Rachel advises to always pack more than you think you’ll need just in case.
Packing list
Below is Nurture’s list of essentials:
- Puppy pads to protect car seats or furniture at your place of travel
- Honey or a source of glucose on hand to rub on the gums in case of a hypoglycaemic episode
- A meter or sensor kit
- Insulin including spares
- A cool bag to store insulin
- The right syringes or pens
While it takes a bit of extra work and getting used to, with the right preparation, you and your pet can still enjoy a normal and happy life around this manageable condition. For a full pre-travel check, book an appointment with our veterinary team at Nurture before you go.
