8 Tips to Make Traveling with Pets Much Easier
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Traveling with your pet can be an exciting and rewarding experience. Whether you’re planning a road trip, hopping on a plane, or exploring new destinations, traveling with pets requires careful preparation and consideration to ensure their comfort, safety, and happiness on the road.
Research pet-friendly transportation options, accommodations, and any specific requirements or restrictions at your destination. Some hotels, airlines, and modes of transport have specific policies and regulations regarding pets, so it’s crucial to gather all the necessary information beforehand.
Here’s what you need to know before you and your four-legged companion hit the road.
Choose a Pet-Friendly Destination
Stoffy/imgur On first glance, this happy beach dog looks like he’s skydiving.
When planning a trip with your pet, be sure to choose a pet-friendly destination. The last thing you want is to keep your pet cooped up in a crate in the hotel room the whole time. There are plenty of pet-friendly activities for you to do on vacation. Consider locating pet-friendly beaches, national parks, restaurants, and even wineries at your travel destination.
Remember to always prioritize your pet’s safety and comfort when traveling, and plan ahead and prepare for any necessary documentation or vaccinations.
If you’re not traveling by car, you’ll need to find a pet-friendly mode of transportation. Many public transportation systems such as buses, trains, and subways allow pets, but rules and restrictions vary by location and carrier. Most require pets to be in carriers but some allow leashed pets. Check with the carrier beforehand and ensure you have all the necessary documentation and vaccinations for your pet.
Service animals are permitted just about everywhere, but there may be special requirements during travel. Emotional support animals are typically not considered service animals, so the transportation company’s general pet policy will apply.
Photo © Shutterstock/Michael Pettigrew Dog and cat relaxing in hotel bed.
If you will be staying in hotels or other accommodations, make sure to research pet-friendly options in advance. Some accommodations may have restrictions on pet size or breed and may charge additional fees for pets. Book your accommodations in advance and inform them that you will be traveling with a pet.
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Image © Yuri_Arcurs / E+ / Getty Images Cats and dogs can develop inflammation in their digestive system, too. It’s often treated with a change and diet and sometimes medications.
Before traveling, take your pet to the veterinarian for a check-up and to ensure they are up to date on all necessary vaccinations and medications. International trips will usually require a special health certificate provided by a USDA-accredited veterinarian, but even some domestic trips require special documentation. Ask your vet for advice specific to your pet’s needs, and bring copies of their health records with you. If your pet gets anxious when traveling, your vet may be able to provide calming supplements or, if necessary, sedatives.
Pack Necessary Supplies
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Along with your own belongings, ack everything your pet will need for the trip:
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Collar or harness with current identification
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Leash
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Bowls/dishes
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Pet food and treats
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Water
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Medications
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Pet toys (puzzle toys can help keep them busy)
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Waste bags or a travel litter box
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Pet beds or blankets
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Carrier or crate
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Car restraints
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Pet first aid kit
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A list of veterinarians near your destination (including a 24/7 emergency clinic)
If you are traveling by plane, bring an airline-approved carrier. If you are traveling by car, use a restraint or carrier to keep your pet safe while driving. You may also need to bring a crate for your pet to use during the stay depending on your accommodations.
Practice in Advance
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If your pet is not used to traveling, start practicing before the trip. It’s common for cats to fear car rides but even some dogs dislike car rides. Take short trips with your pet in the car or on public transportation to get them used to the experience and reward relaxed behavior with treats, toys, or praise. Gradually increase the length of the trips to build up their comfort level. Your veterinarian or certified trainer can help provide guidance, but you may wish to consult a certified animal behaviorist or veterinary behaviorist if your pet’s travel anxiety is severe.
Be Mindful of Your Pet’s Comfort
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Make sure your pet is comfortable and calm throughout the journey. Offer them water and treats as needed, and take breaks for exercise and bathroom breaks. If you are traveling by car, never leave your pet in a parked car, as this can be dangerous or even deadly. Heat stroke can affect both dogs and cats.
Follow Pet Etiquette
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Any age of dog can be trained using desensitization and counterconditioning techniques.
When traveling with a pet, be considerate of others. Keep your pet on a leash or in a carrier, clean up after them, and be respectful of other travelers’ space and comfort.
