To make your puppy’s arrival and trip home as smooth as possible, here are some essentials you may want to bring:

• Identification and paperwork: Bring your ID or passport, and if you have them, a copy of the pet passport, invoice, and airway bill number (though in most cases, you won’t need them).
• Cleaning supplies: Puppies can sometimes get a little messy during travel, so having wet wipes, a small garbage bag for crate shavings, and a dry spray shampoo or vinegar-water solution can be helpful.
• Comfort items: A cozy dog bed, a warm blanket, and a harness with a leash are great for making your puppy feel secure on the journey home. If your trip is long, a small bowl with bottled water and some extra food will keep them comfortable.
• Scissors or clippers: Useful for cutting zip ties from the travel crate if needed.
• Optional grooming: Some adopters choose to schedule a quick grooming session at a pet store like PetSmart, but most find that wipes and dry shampoo are enough.

Preparing these items in advance will help make your puppy’s first moments with you as stress-free and comfortable as possible!