CheckandPackPets are important to us, for many they are our family. And for others, they are the best friends we have. Leaving our pets behind when we travel can be incredibly difficult as sometimes we have no one else to look after them and other times, they aren’t comfortable being left in the company of others. We are often left with no choice but to take them along on some trips. But traveling with pets isn’t always easy. It can be very stressful and chaotic.
If you’re traveling with a pet, there are a few things to keep in mind.
Check pet behavior
First, make sure your pet is well-behaved in new surroundings. If your pet barks or jumps on people, it might not be welcomed in certain parts of the world. Make sure your pet has identification tags and that microchips are up-to-date in case he or she gets lost.
Familiarize your pets with travel
Make sure your pet is used to being in a car. Buy a travel kennel or rent one if you’re traveling a long distance or out of the country. Be sure it’s large enough for your pet to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably. When you make stops for bathroom breaks or to stretch your legs, bring your pet with you. This will help to prevent him or her from getting lost during the trip.
Spend time with your pet before your trip to teach him or her to associate the car with pleasant experiences. Give your pet a chance to ride in the car a few times before you go on a long trip. Feed and water your pet before getting into the car so he or she will be comfortable during the trip. Provide plenty of fresh drinking water during the trip to avoid dehydration. On a road trip, be sure to stop frequently to allow your pet to exercise and get out of the car to go potty.
Check airline rules
Check with your airline to see if any special rules or regulations apply. Plan ahead and make reservations for a pet-friendly flight if you plan to fly with your animal. Ask your airline about required documentation, health certificates, and special fees for transporting animals.
Keep a close watch on your pets
During takeoff and landing, maintain a close eye on your pets to reduce the risk of injury if turbulence occurs. Don’t leave your dog unattended in a hotel room, and be sure to keep your pets off hotel furniture to protect them from stains and damage. Place your pets in a room where you can easily hear them if they are barking or meowing, and keep them on a leash any time you leave the hotel grounds. If you are staying at a hotel that allows pets, bring your own food, water, and litter box to ensure your pet receives proper nourishment.
Also, avoid leaving your dog unattended at a campsite or beach; he may become stressed and bark, and other guests may not appreciate it.
Clean up after them
Always clean up after your pet when you are outdoors to prevent the spread of germs and parasites. Bring plastic bags for picking up after your pet if necessary. Wash your hands frequently to prevent them from becoming contaminated. If your pet becomes ill while you are on vacation, contact a veterinarian immediately for advice.
Vaccinations are important
Keep your pet’s vaccinations up to date before you travel to ensure that he or she can fight off any potential illnesses while away from home. Be sure to pack all of your pet’s necessities before leaving home to keep him or her happy and safe while you are away remember to bring a copy of your pet’s medical records and vaccination certificates. Microchipping is another important precaution that you should take to ensure that your pet can be identified and returned to you if he or she is lost or separated from you during your trip.
Take note of the weather
Observe your pet carefully during hot and humid weather and check his coat often for signs of heat exhaustion.
Never leave your pet alone in a car in hot weather; the temperature inside a car can reach dangerous levels in a matter of minutes. Heatstroke is the most common cause of heat-related death in dogs, so make sure you never leave your furry friend in a parked car in the summer. Like people, dogs can get sunburned too! If your cat loves basking in the sun, make sure you provide her with a shady spot when she’s outside.
Whether it’s indoor or outdoor temperature consider layers to help regulate your pet’s body temperature. Both dogs and cats have different needs in terms of warmth in winter and summer, so make sure to dress them appropriately for the weather conditions.
Prepare for possible emergencies
Be prepared for safety hazards like sand, grass seeds, or foxtails that can cause trouble for dog paws along beaches or wilderness trails. If you take long hikes, pack first aid supplies for your pet, too, and bring an extra bowl for water.
It is also important that food and water are more than enough or at least readily available in case you have to prolong your stay.
Pets can be great travel companions, but they can also pose some health risks in certain situations. It’s best to make use of the tips above to ensure that your travel remains enjoyable for both you and your pet.