Don’t forget the insulin: travel tips for diabetic dog owners

You get that sinking feeling in the pit of your stomach and, if you’re like me, toss out a string of expletives.

As pet parents of diabetic dogs, it’s understandable that we can be thrown off our game when travelling. We’ve formed habits — because we have to. Testing, feeding, injecting, plus everything else: pills, drops, tick meds, walks, and making sure the poop bag dispenser isn’t empty.

When traveling, everything’s different — not in its usual place. We’re working out of knapsacks, coolers, and suitcases instead of those familiar, organized drawers, bins, shelves, and cupboards.

And a different refrigerator.

Hotel and motel fridges are often tucked away — an eyesore that the room’s interior designer fought to hide in a corner, deep recess, or even behind a cupboard door. Short-term rental fridges are different from the ones at home, so our routine gets thrown off.

If you’ve forgotten the insulin before, you’re not alone. It happens more than people admit.

With that in mind, here are some ideas for helping you remember your diabetic dog’s insulin when you’re on the road.

Use your phone. It’s the smart one.

If you know your departure time, set an alarm, timer, or reminder to check the fridge for your dog’s insulin.

One big advantage of this option is that you can set it anytime — when you’re packing, settling in, or even when you arrive at your destination.

Cold keys. Warm comfort.

Before you go to bed, put your car keys in the fridge next to the insulin.

It’s a simple trick, but it works. You won’t get far without your keys — and when you grab them, you’ll see the insulin.

Leave yourself a note

Create a reminder note and put it somewhere you can’t miss — next to your phone charger, keys, or the exit door.

Most hotels have pens and pads in the desk area. Fold the note like a tent card and leave it somewhere visible.

Create a decoy

If you’re using a travel bag or cooler for the insulin, attach or place something on it that doesn’t belong.

An empty poop bag tied to the handle, for example.

In the morning, when you ask yourself why it’s there, you’ll remember to check the fridge.

Use a visual anchor

Place the insulin in front of something you know you’ll use in the morning — like the coffee maker, toothbrush, bathroom mirror or water bottle.

This works especially well in unfamiliar spaces where your usual routines are disrupted.

Before you hit the road

• Check along your route where you can buy replacement insulin
• Call ahead to confirm availability if possible
• Bring any prescriptions you may need
• If your insulin comes in a vial, consider using a silicone sleeve to protect it from breakage
• Keep your vet’s contact information handy

Before you walk out the door

Do a quick final check:

• Check the fridge
• Check your cooler or travel bag
• Say it out loud: “Insulin is packed”

It might feel unnecessary. But it works.

We're all on a road less travelled.

Forgetting your dog’s insulin while traveling is stressful. Even thinking that you may have forgotten it is stressful. Hopefully you find this advice helpful and are able to enjoy the journey ahead.