You are considering traveling with your pet cat or dog? There are many factors you should consider. It is important to consider whether it would be better for your pet to stay with you, or if you could leave him at home with a neighbor, family member, or pet sitter. Have you considered boarding services if you don’t have someone to care for your pet at home?
Plan a trip with your pet
For a successful vacation with your pet, planning and preparation are key. The final decision on whether or not to include your pet in travel plans will depend on your destination and the type of travel.
Most pets, especially cats, prefer to be at home in their familiar surroundings. It might be better for your pet to stay home if he gets sick while traveling by car. Some pets are not able to travel due to illness, injury, or temperament. Discuss your options with your veterinarian if this is the case.
You should check in advance whether your pet is allowed to stay with friends or family members during the trip. You should check that your hotel, motel or campground allows pets or has kennel facilities. Be sure to check for any restrictions regarding weight or breed. You should make sure you book a reservation as many hotels only have a few pet-friendly rooms.
Here are some additional tips
Make sure your pet has a current microchip and a tag. Your pet’s collar should contain an additional ID tag. A special travel tag should also be included with information about where your pet is staying away from home.
To help you identify your pet in the event of a loss, keep a current photograph of your pet.
If you plan to cross state or international borders, make sure you have proof that you have been vaccinated against rabies and a current certificate of health.
If your pet will be left alone at the home of relatives or friends who do not feel comfortable with your pet being out, ensure your pet is comfortable in a crate. Crate training is available at the link below.
Car travel with a dog or cat
You can help your pet to become more comfortable with the vehicle by opening the doors and letting him ride in it. Make it a pleasant experience by feeding him delicious treats. Start short outings once he’s comfortable in the car. Then, increase the duration of the trips.
For those who need specialized care and security during their travel, choosing a service like https://www.shiply.com/
It is important to determine where your pet will travel during the trip. Most pet shops have a variety of accessories that can be used to secure your pet during car travel, including carriers, tethers, carriers, and harnesses.
A dog shouldn’t ride in a car’s passenger seat, even if it has an airbag. It should also not be allowed to sit on top of the driver. Dogs should never be allowed to ride in cars with their heads outside of the windows. Dirt, dirt, and other debris could get into their eyes, ears, nose, or cause infection. Your dog should always be kept in a secure kennel if she will be traveling in a truck bed.
To ensure your cat feels safe and secure, she should be kept in a carrier or cage while driving. A seatbelt should be used to secure the cat’s carrier.
No matter if your pet is a cat, dog or both, if they aren’t used to being in a carrier or crate, you can work with them to train him. Then, ask him to take it out for longer periods.
Your pet should be on the same feeding schedule as you and your family. Give him his main meal at night or at the end. Dry food is most convenient, provided it is part of your pet’s regular feeding schedule. Can food should be thrown away if it is not possible to refrigerate. In case of inaccessible water sources, keep a plastic container of cold water in your vehicle.
You should always take a leash if you are traveling with your dog. Also, plan to stop every few hours for potty breaks and exercise. Many websites and apps can help you locate pet-friendly places to stay. Remember that pets should not be left in hot cars, even for short periods.
Flying with your pet dog or another pet is a great way to travel.
Consider having your pet examined by a veterinarian before you travel with your cat or dog by plane. A flight may be more uncomfortable for dogs with flat faces or respiratory problems (or older, sicker dogs).
Every airline has its own rules regarding pet travel. Make sure to check the airline’s website for details and call ahead to make arrangements. Animals must be kept in a carrier approved by the airline when flying in the cargo area. Many airlines allow small pets and cats to travel under the seat with an approved carrier.
Many airlines have rules and regulations for pet travel.
- All breeds and sizes allowed
- No pets allowed per flight
- Pets are allowed in the main cabin
- Most airlines require that pet health certificates are issued within 10 days of departure.
- Evidence of vaccinations for pets
- Checked kennel charges
Your pet should feel at ease in the carrier or kennel she is traveling in, regardless of whether she travels with you in the cabin or with you in the baggage compartment. Pets traveling by plane are most likely to get hurt if they try to escape from their kennels.
You can reduce stress for your pet and yourself by choosing the shortest flight to your destination. It’s a good idea, to confirm your flights at least one day before you travel, to avoid any unexpected flight changes.
If you need to take your pet with you to the airport, get there early and exercise her. You can also place the animal in the crate at the airport. Let the flight attendant know your pet is in the baggage section when you board the plane.
Talk to your vet about what you should feed your pet before flying. It is not recommended to travel with a pet’s stomach empty. When making feeding recommendations, we will consider the age, size, duration, and regular diet of your pet. Because of the risk of developing heart and respiratory problems, tranquilizers are not recommended.
First-aid kit for pets and pet health
You should always have a first-aid kit for your pet in case of an emergency, unexpected illness, or injury while on vacation. The following items should be included in your kit:
Pet first-aid book
Contact information for emergency (including numbers for your vet, an emergency clinic, and a national poison control hotline).
Prescription medications for your pet
- Wraps that are self-adherent to Coban
- Kerlix gauze roll
- Sterile gauze pads (in various sizes)
- ABD (abdominal pads)
- Ace bandage wraps
- Use alcohol wipes or antiseptic pads
- Antibacterial cream/ointment
- Instant cold
- An emergency blanket
- Tweezers
- Blunt scissors
- Protective gloves for exam
- Styptic blood-clotting Powder
- Sterile saline syringes (10 ml)
- Cotton balls and cotton swabs
- Hydrogen peroxide (3%)
- Headlamp or flashlight
- Collapsible water bowl
- Basket muzzle (if a canine is suffering, he might bite).
Use a sling to transport large or medium-sized dogs
To make your pet feel at home, bring along the pet’s favorite food, toys, and other items. You may also need a leash, harness, or towel to help your pet.
Contact your pet insurance company to learn how you can handle emergency situations when you are away from home. Ask your vet if they can provide you with the name of a local veterinarian. You may also contact the chamber of commerce or local visitor’s bureau for more information about emergency veterinary clinics and veterinarians.
Be aware of your pet’s behavior when traveling, including his or her eating, drinking, and toilet habits. You should be on the lookout if your pet is exhibiting unusual behavior such as excessive discharge from the nose or eyes, excessive scratching and biting, abnormal elimination or excessive water intake. If you have any concerns about behavioral or physical changes, consult your veterinarian.
Prepare for travel with pets
No matter what your travel style, it is important to prepare your pet for any unexpected situations. Your furry friend will be happier if you do some exercise before you travel. You can also find many products, including balms, sprays, and wraps that can help calm your pet.
