Traveling alone isn’t any fun and if you’re looking for a travel buddy, pets can make great companions. But before you start planning your trip with your four-legged friend (now that we can move about more!), it’s important to know what you need to do and what to bring to keep your pet safe and comfortable. Whether you’re traveling by car, plane or train, here are some helpful tips for traveling with your pet.
Bring Identification and Health Records
Regardless of how you’re traveling, make sure your pet has proper identification and health records. Make sure your pet is wearing ID tags during your trip and if possible, have them microchipped for easy identification. Additionally, if you’re traveling across state lines, be sure to bring proof of their rabies vaccinations as some states require proof at certain interstate crossings
Put Together a Pet Travel Kit
Before you depart, it’s important to make sure your pet has everything they need. This includes bowls, leash, waste disposal equipment, medication, food, bottled water and travel documents. Don’t forget to pack a favorite toy or pillow to help make your pet more comfortable while traveling.
Train Them for Traveling
Traveling can be incredibly stressful for inexperienced pets, and this is why it’s important to help them adjust to it before you embark on your trip. If you’re traveling by car, take your pet on short drives at first and gradually make them longer so your pet becomes accustomed to spending time on the road.
Have a Travel Feeding Schedule
Pets can make a mess when they’re stressed and just like humans, they can also get motion sickness. The best way to avoid unnecessary delays on your trip is to have a travel feeding schedule ready for the day of your departure. Rather than sticking to his or her normal feeding schedule and food amount, it’s recommended feeding your pet a light meal three to four hours before you leave to help them avoid any stomach discomfort and unwanted accidents.
Keep Your Pet in a Safe and Secure Crate or Carrier
Regardless of how you’re traveling, make sure your pet is safely secure and comfortable in a sturdy, well-ventilated pet crate. An ideal crate offers your pet enough room to stand, sit or lie down, helping ensure they stay comfortable. Getting your pet used to spending time in the crate before your trip can also help him or her adjust and relax on your trip.
Take Them to the Vet
Before you travel anywhere, be sure to take your pet for a check-up with your veterinarian. Not only can you make sure your pets are up-to-date on their shots and healthy enough to travel, but your vet can answer any questions you have about taking your pet on vacation.
Before you take your trip, schedule an appointment to see us. Our team will help make sure you and your pet are ready to travel and enjoy your vacation. For more pet care tips, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest or LinkedIn!
