If it seems like youve seen more and more pets in your friends vacay pics, youre not imagining things. Nearly 80 percent of pet owners say they would include their dog in family activities—including vacations, according to a recent survey from the dog-sitting and walking company Rover.

If you've never taken your pooch on a trip with you, then you're in for a few surprises the first time you do, not all of which will make for cute Insta opps (pics of your dog pissing off other people on your flight don't exactly get a lot of likes).

Thinking of taking your pooch on your next road trip or flight? There are a few steps you can take that will make the experience more enjoyable for everyone involved, says veterinarian Lori Bierbrier, the medical director of the community medicine program at the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA).

While your dog should always be wearing a collar with identification (and is ideally microchipped), this is especially important when you're traveling. "This is for that 'just in case' moment that could happen, especially when your pet is in unfamiliar surroundings," says Bierbrier. Other prep work can pay off big time. If you're flying, for instance, you'll want to book a direct flight. And make sure to talk to both your vet and an airline representative ahead of time. This will help you square away important details, such as whether there are any breed restrictions or required documents for travel—and whether your dog may benefit from a sedative. (Important note here: This is only a safe option for in-cabin travel, not cargo.)

You'll want to bring proof of vaccinations, food, water, and waste bags. Pack any medicine your dog is taking, too, but make sure that it's out of reach for your pet while you're traveling (the same goes for your medication, too).

You know how some people get carsick? That can happen with dogs, too (and that's not something you want to find out in the middle of a six-hour car ride). Before you buckle up for a longer trek with your pet, Bierbrier recommends going on a few short rides to see if driving upsets your dog's stomach (in which case you can talk to your vet about getting an anti-nausea medication). This is also a good way to help dogs get used to being in a car, which can be an adjustment if they've rarely experienced it before.

"The safest place for your pet when driving is in a well-ventilated crate," says Bierbrier. As a general rule of thumb, dogs should be able to stand up and turn around in crates—that's how you know they're the right size. The ASPCA also recommends securing the crate so that it won't move if you have to come to a sudden stop.

Feed and walk your dog as close to when you normally would as possible. "This will help maintain consistency in his/her routine," says Bierbrier.

While offering your dog water each time you stop for a walk works, Bierbrier recommends ice as a good spill-proof option for keeping dogs hydrated on trips (particularly on flights).

We hope this goes without saying, but it's never a good idea to leave your dog unattended when you park your car. Some cars (like the Chevy Equinox) have a "Rear Seat Reminder" feature that makes this super-easy—the car knows if you've opened your back door just before or during a drive and will beep to remind you to take Fluffy out with you. If not, be extra-diligent and make sure you're taking your dog with you before you leave. "Both heat and cold can be very detrimental to a dog’s health," says Bierbrier.