Travel can be a buzz of excitement and new experiences—unless you’re a pet, that is. Often, a change in environment can induce stress in our furry friends, leading to discomfort for both pet and owner during what’s supposed to be an enjoyable vacation or trip.
Whether you’re planning a cross-country road trip or an international escapade with your pet, there are certain steps you can take to ensure that the experience is safe and as enjoyable as possible for everyone involved. These tips for traveling with your pet will help you prepare for potential hiccups, allowing you both to make the most of your time away.
Pre-trip Preparations
Visit the Veterinarian
Before any travel, it’s vital to schedule a visit with your pet’s veterinarian. Owners often neglect this step, but it’s crucial to confirm that your pet is both physically fit to travel and up-to-date on vaccinations. Your vet can also provide you with health certificates, medication for anxiety, and advice on how to keep your pet calm during transit.
Microchip and Updated Tags
If your pet isn’t already microchipped, consider doing so before travel. The identification tag on your pet’s collar should have your name and phone number, but a microchip is the best way to ensure you are reunited if your pet gets lost. Also, don’t forget to update any information linked to the microchip, especially contact details.
Travel Kit
Pack a travel kit that includes essentials like food, medications, water, and food dishes. For air travel, this kit will need to comply with airline regulations. In your travel kit, include familiar toys and bedding to provide comfort for your pet and help create a sense of home, wherever your travels take you.
Research Pet-friendly Accommodations and Destinations
Plan your trip in detail, ensuring that all accommodation, restaurants, and attractions are pet-friendly. Confirm that you understand their specific rules and policies for pets so you and your furry friend don’t face any surprises. You may also want to identify emergency vet facilities along your route.
Socialize Your Pet
If your pet is not accustomed to car rides or meeting new people, try to socialize them prior to the trip. This can help reduce their anxiety and make the experience less stressful. Take short car rides, visit new places, and introduce them to strangers to help them acclimate.
Road Trips with Your Pet
Prepare Your Vehicle
Whether your pet will be sitting in a crate, using a harness, or roaming freely, ensure your vehicle is safely prepared for them. Use pet seat covers to protect your car’s interior and keep your pet secure. Avoid letting your pet stick their head out of the window, as this can lead to injury.
Rest Stops
Plan frequent rest stops so your pet can get out, stretch, relieve themselves, and get some exercise. Bring a leash and walk your pet in a safe, grassy area. Avoid taking them to unfamiliar places with lots of people and other animals, which can be overwhelming.
Never Leave Your Pet Unattended
It goes without saying, but never leave your pet alone in the car, especially in warm weather. The temperatures inside a vehicle can rise to dangerous levels in a matter of minutes, even with the windows cracked.
Air Travel with Your Pet
Choose a Direct Flight
Whenever possible, choose a direct flight to reduce the total time your pet spends traveling. This minimizes the risk of your pet facing prolonged stay in a carrier during layovers, which can be distressing.
Airline Crate Training
Introduce your pet to their travel crate well in advance of your trip. Make the crate a positive place by leaving it open with a familiar blanket and treats inside. Gradually increase the amount of time your pet spends in the crate to help them get used to it.
Check Airline Regulations
Every airline has its own set of rules and requirements for traveling with pets, including crate size, health documentation, and pet age and type. Research and understand these guidelines well in advance to avoid last-minute stress.
Prepare for Security Checks
During airport security checks, you will need to remove your pet from their carrier and may have to carry them or walk them through the scanner. Prepare your pet for this by practicing at home to reduce fear or anxiety during the process.
During Travel
Calming Products
Consider using calming products such as pheromone sprays, anxiety wraps, or natural supplements to help keep your pet relaxed during the trip. Always test these products out before the travel day to ensure they have the desired effect and don’t cause adverse reactions.
Hydration and Feeding
Keep your pet hydrated, offering water at every stop. If your pet is prone to motion sickness, avoid feeding them right before or during travel. When you do feed them, offer a light meal to minimize potential issues.
Identification on Hand
Carry a recent photo of your pet and have all their identification information at hand in case of emergencies. Also, make sure your pet is wearing a secure collar or has their leash on for any necessary quick access.
Monitor Your Pet
Pay attention to your pet’s behavior and look for signs of stress or illness, such as excessive drooling, shaking, or refusal to eat. Be prepared to stop and assess the situation or seek veterinary help if needed.
Post-Travel Care
Rest and Routine
Upon arrival, allow your pet time to rest and regain their bearings. Stick to their regular routine as much as possible, including feeding and exercising, to create a sense of normalcy.
Keep Calm and Carry On
Your pet may be a little off their game at first, which can be disconcerting. Give them time, provide plenty of affection, and don’t be alarmed if they exhibit unusual behavior. They will usually acclimate quickly.
Watch for Post-Travel Health Issues
Keep an eye out for health issues that might arise post-travel, such as gastrointestinal upset or kennel cough. If you notice anything concerning, contact your vet for advice.
Reflect on the Journey
After your trip, reflect on the experience and identify what worked well and what didn’t. Use this insight to better prepare for future travels and make them even more enjoyable for you and your pet.
Traveling with a pet can be a rewarding experience that deepens the bond between human and animal. With careful preparation and thoughtful consideration, you can ensure that your adventures together are safe, fun, and as stress-free as can be. Make your next getaway a pawsitively great adventure for both you and your beloved pet!
