If you’re searching for travel nurse jobs but can’t imagine leaving your pet behind, you’re definitely not alone.
For many travel nurses, pets are family. Whether it’s a dog that’s been with you for years or a cat that keeps you company after long shifts, the idea of taking assignments across the country without them can feel impossible.
The good news? Thousands of travel nurses successfully travel with pets every year.
The reality, though, is that traveling with a pet requires more planning, more budgeting, and a little extra flexibility. Before packing up your car and heading to your next assignment, it’s important to think through housing, transportation, pet care during long shifts, emergency vet situations, and whether your pet will actually enjoy the travel lifestyle.
Here’s what travel nurses should know before bringing pets on assignment.
Absolutely.
Many travel nurse jobs are pet-friendly, especially as more furnished housing providers and short-term rentals adapt to the travel healthcare industry.
However, bringing pets does limit some housing options, and you’ll need to plan earlier than travelers without pets.
The most common pets travel nurses bring include:
Dogs are by far the most common travel companions because they adapt well to routines, road trips, and outdoor adventures.
This is one of the biggest questions travel nurses should honestly ask themselves.
Some pets thrive in new environments, while others become stressed from:
Many dogs love travel nursing life, especially active breeds that enjoy hiking, beaches, parks, and spending time outdoors.
If your dog enjoys car rides, adapts well socially, and handles new environments easily, they may love the experience.
Cats can be more challenging because they’re usually more attached to familiar environments.
Some cats adjust quickly, while others experience anxiety during moves.
Older pets may struggle more with frequent travel, long drives, stairs, and climate changes. In some situations, staying with trusted family members may actually be less stressful for them.
Pets should never roam freely in your vehicle.
For dogs, use:
For cats:
If you’re driving across multiple states for an assignment:
Always travel with:
Many furnished rentals require proof of vaccinations before approving pets.
Housing is usually the biggest challenge for travel nurses with pets.
Many short-term rentals charge:
You may encounter:
Suburban areas often have larger apartments, dog parks, and lower rent prices compared to city centers.
This is one of the most important questions to think through before bringing a dog on assignment.
Most travel nurse jobs involve:
That means your dog could potentially be alone for 13–14 hours some days.
Many travel nurses use doggy daycare on workdays to provide:
Pet services can help with:
Some travel nurses bring partners who work remotely, making pet care much easier during long shifts.
Cats are often easier for travel nursing schedules because they generally tolerate longer periods alone.
Emergency vet situations can be stressful, especially in an unfamiliar city.
Before starting an assignment:
For many travel nurses, pet insurance is worth considering.
Pet emergencies can become extremely expensive while traveling.
Depending on the policy, pet insurance may help cover:
Most travel nurse employers do not directly provide pet insurance as part of benefits packages, so travelers usually purchase coverage independently.
One of the best parts about travel nursing with pets is exploring new places together.
On your days off, you can:
Many travel nurses intentionally choose assignments in outdoor-friendly cities because it benefits both them and their pets.
Sometimes the best decision is leaving your pet with trusted friends or family temporarily.
That may be the better option if:
Some pets genuinely thrive on the road, while others feel more comfortable in familiar environments.
The decision should ultimately be based on your pet’s personality and needs.
If you’re considering travel nurse jobs and want to bring your pet along, preparation is everything.
Before accepting an assignment:
For the right traveler and the right pet, travel nursing can become an incredible shared adventure.
Whether you’re hiking mountain trails, walking on the beach, or exploring a new city together, bringing your pet can make assignments feel much more like home.
Explore travel nurse jobs across the country and find assignments that fit both your career goals and your lifestyle.