You want to bring your pet everywhere with you, but sometimes it can be more of a hassle than it's worth. Your pup might not like long car rides, or maybe you plan to travel overseas. Some of us can't fathom leaving them behind, but luckily there are some tips to help make the process easier.
Your pet has its own personality and a unique way of reacting to different situations, which is why some of these tips may work for you and others may not. The type of travel you decide to go with will also determine what information you decide to utilize. Keep reading to learn ten things to make it easier to travel with your pet!
10 Take Direct Flights
The biggest thing to worry about when traveling with your pet is stress. If you plan on taking an airplane ride to your destination then you should consider taking a direct flight, instead of having several layovers. When an animal is stashed in the cargo hold of a plane it can have a significant effect on their health, and animals not suited for air travel have been known to pass during the flight.
You should always check to see if your pet can stay with you in the cabin, and if not, mention it to the flight attendant or pilot as you board so they are aware of their extra precious cargo.
9 Use Car Restraints
Most people take their pets on road trips, which is great, until they end up somewhere they are not supposed to be. It is safest for your pet to remain in the back seat. In the event of a car crash, it is unlikely your pet will survive the impact of the airbags.
There are several dog restraints that are made to keep your pooch tethered to one spot in the car. This will prevent them from making a mess or distracting you on the roadway which could put you both in jeopardy.
8 Prepare A Checklist
It doesn't matter whether you are traveling out of the country or just across the state, you should always have their vet records on hand. The best way to ensure you have everything you need is to make a checklist.
This way you can be certain you packed enough food, brought their favorite toys, and have a list of all their medical information. It might seem a bit overkill, but they are basically like children, and forgetting one thing in their routine could drastically change the outcome of your trip.
7 Cats Should Be In Carriers
You have probably witnessed a cat or two crawling around someone's car while they are on the road, but it should actually be kept in a carrier. Cats generally dislike the entire car experience, and some can even grow ill, but a carrier alleviates this stress. They will feel secluded from what's going on around them as they fall asleep in their enclosed space.
You won't have to listen to their constant cries for hours on end, and instead, you can listen to your favorite tunes in peace. A good tip is to cover the carrier with a blanket or towel because any vantage point a cat might have will only increase its stressed behavior.
6 If Your Pet Is In The Cabin, It Acts As Your Carry-On
Many people don't realize that when an airline allows them to bring their pet in a carrier into the cabin, it is considered their carry-on. It is a common misconception that generally leads people to spend more than they had planned on due to the fact that they have too many pieces of luggage. A good tip for pet owners is to buy a soft-shelled carrier with pockets on the side where you have the option to store some things to keep you occupied throughout the flight.
5 Discuss Anti-Anxiety Or Sedation Medications With Your Vet
There are some pets who just don't handle travel well at all and it leads to extreme anxiety and stress that can be detrimental to their health. The best option, if you don't want to leave them at home, is to take them to see a vet for a specialty prescription.
They can often prescribe anti-anxiety medications or sometimes even sedatives to keep your dog cool and calm throughout the duration of your journey. You may feel bad about drugging your pet, but if their health is truly important to you then this is a necessary next step to prepare them for travel.
4 Line Your Pets Carrier With One Of Your T-Shirts
Your pet usually wants out of its carrier so it can be by you, which is why sticking one of your t-shirts into its carrier might be a good idea. Pets know our scents and this is part of the reason why they choose to sit or lay on things we use daily.
Whether it be a pile of our t-shirts, a sock in its mouth, or you find your pet passed out on your favorite blanket; they do it because they love you. When you put a t-shirt into a carrier it alleviates their anxiety because they have something of you close by to hold onto and cherish. Your scent will work wonders to calm them and help them feel more at ease as you travel to new places.
3 Let Your Pet Become Acquainted With A Carrier
One mistake many pet owners make is trying to put their pet into a carrier for the first time the day they want to travel. Your pet doesn't know what it is, if it's safe, or if this means they will never see you again.
They will probably begin to freak out and have a panic attack which isn't good for anyone involved, which is why you should routinely help your pet become accustomed to its carrier. When it comes time to take your journey, your pet will see their carrier as a second home and have o qualms about spending a bit of time inside.
2 Europe Has A Pet Passport Program
This is only applicable if you plan to travel around Europe with your pet as they have their own Pet Passport Program. You usually need quite a few materials on hand in terms of records and information, but this passport simplifies the process.
It allows you to easily cross state line without all of the hassle of having poor Fido's documents checked at every border. If you are from the United States you won't be able to purchase one until you reach Europe, but it is always something to keep in mind especially if you plan on an extended stay.
1 Professional Pet Transport Services Exist
This is rare, but sometimes our pets have to travel home halfway through our vacations. It could be because of an illness or maybe even something dire, but there are companies willing to help you out.
They may be quite expensive and should only be used as a last resort, but it ensures your entire vacation won't be wasted. They can pick your pet up and deliver it to someone you know back home, which gives you the chance to get back to your vacation.