Traveling with Pets

By Deborah Brightstar

Are you planning on taking a trip with your pets? If so, traveling with pets requires special considerations. Here is a basic checklist to consider when preparing to travel with your pets. Keep them and their needs in mind as much as you would your own so that it can be an enjoyable trip for all of you.

1. How will you transport them? Do you have a crate, cage or kennel to transport them in? This provides them with a safe place to feel secure in. Make sure it meets the requirements of the mode of transportation you will be using. Airlines have very stringent requirements for pets.
2. Do you have adequate food and water to keep them nourished and hydrated appropriately? Make sure they get a potty break as late as possible, before they have to be confined for long periods of time.
3. Have you made arrangements with the airlines for your pets’ travel? They may require special health certificates from your veterinarian in order for your pet to be allowed to board the plane, or vaccines if you are traveling to another country. Make sure your pet is healthy enough to make the trip. Plan ahead and give yourself plenty of time before your trip to make sure you have all required documentation so that your travel plans aren’t ruined by unexpected requirements you weren’t aware of.
4. Do you know what to do if your pet gets sick while flying or driving? Check with your vet and make sure to have the appropriate remedy for your kind of pet, just in case they have a sensitive stomach or anxiety. Better safe than sorry with a stinky mess on a long flight, bus or car ride!
5. If you will be staying in hotels along the way, make sure they are pet friendly and will allow your particular kind of animal in their establishment Do they require reservations or deposits?
6. Does your pet need exercise or have any special needs, such as medications, that must be considered while en route, so they remain healthy and happy during the trip?
7. Remember to pack a bag for them, complete with all the necessary supplies for their physical, mental and emotional well being. If you have a high energy dog, for example, that you know is going to go stir crazy on long flights or car rides, then make sure you plan into your trip time to stop and throw a ball or take a long run or walk before long periods of confinement. Make sure you pack their favorite toy or bed and tend to their needs to minimize their discomfort.

Even though you may think taking a trip with your pet is fun, it is still stressful for them, so make sure you provide as much routine as possible for them along the way to reduce stress and increase their enjoyment. Traveling with your favorite furry, feathered or scaly family members can be fun for all of you, if you consider all their needs and yours and prepare and plan appropriately.

For further information, contact Deb at doggiedivapetcare.com.