Traveling with your pet can be an enjoyable experience, but it will come with its challenges. Whether you’re going on a road trip or hopping on a plane to go somewhere new, pet travel takes extra planning and care. With the right preparation, you and your pet can have a positive and stress-free trip — the good news! In this guide, we’ll show you how to travel with pets—from before the trip to when it’s time to travel, and some great pets-friendly destinations along the way!
General Notes: Have everything ready before you travel
Whether you’re hitting the road or flying the friendly skies, you’ll want to ensure you’re covering all your bases:
See the Vet: Get an check-up to make sure your pet is healthy enough to go on the trip. Inquire about any required vaccinations or health certificates (especially if you’re flying).
Make new pet ID tags: Make sure your pet’s ID tags are current with your contact information. For additional security, consider getting a microchip.
Pet Travel Carrier: Frequent travelers will need a durable and comfortable carrier that accommodates their pet’s size and allows plenty of room for them to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably. Acquaint your pet with the carrier before the journey by allowing them to spend time in it at home.
Selecting the Mode of Transportation
By Car: Traveling by car is often the easiest way to travel with a pet. Here are some tips:
Rest Frequently: Between every 2-3 hours, take brake for washroom, touch up, and a mild stretch.
Use a pet seatbelt harness, travel crate, or pet car seat to keep your pet safe and comfortable
Don’t Leave Them: Never leave your pet in a hot car, which can cause heatstroke or worse.
By Plane: If you’re flying, you’ll have to plan in advance:
Research each Airline Pet Policy: Airline rules differ when it comes to flying with pets in cabin or cargo. Be sure you’re familiar with the specifics for your flight.
Be Prepared for Security: You’ll have to remove your pet from their carrier for security screening. Be certain your furry friend is cool with this ahead of time.
Avoid Layovers: When booking, opt for direct flights whenever possible to minimize your pet’s stress.
By Train or Bus: A few trains and buses will take pets. Check with the company about its pet travel policies. Note that pets may be required to spend the journey inside a carrier.
What to Bring: Packing for Your Pet
Carefully pack your pet’s belongings so you have everything you need for a smooth and comfortable journey:
Food & Water: Pack enough food for the duration of your trip, with extras in case of stowaways. And remember, a portable water bowl!
Medications: If your pet has any medications they need to take, ensure you have enough for the duration of your trip, along with any prescriptions or paperwork you might need.
Comfort Items: To make them feel at home in an unfamiliar space, pack familiar items such as a blanket or toy.
Cleaning Supplies: Bring waste bags, a leash, grooming supplies and anything you need to clean up after your pet.
On the Road: Want This to Be a Smooth Trip
Once you start your trip, the key to keeping your pet calm and comfortable is to:
Create 1-2 comfort breaks during a long car ride. This gives your pet the chance to stretch their legs, drink water, and do their business.
Road Trip: How to Travel and Have Fun with Pets Keep them busy: Give chew toys, treats or even soothing music to keep your pet busy and relaxed while driving
Keep an Eye on Temperature: During the summer months, car rides can be extremely hot, so always ensure your pet is nice and cool. Never leave them in a parked car.
Pet Friendly Accommodations: Where to Stay
An essential part of the planning process is finding pet-friendly accommodations:
Pet Excursions Hotel: More and more hotels are providing pet-friendly suites equipped with things like pet beds, pet bowls and even dog daycare. Check their pet policies and fees before booking, though.
Vacation Rentals: Consider using a website like Airbnb to book a pet-friendly vacation rental, where you’ll generally have more space for your stay and added flexibility.
Outdoor activities: If you’re going to a destination with outdoor activities (like hiking or the beach), ensure that the area is pet-friendly and that there are suitable stays nearby.
International Travel with Pets
If you are travelling with a pet abroad, the process becomes slightly more complex. Be sure to:
Research Pet Import Requirements: The rules and regulations for traveling with pets differ by country. Read up well ahead of time on vaccination, quarantine and health certificate requirements.
Airline pet policies: Rules for international pet travel vary by airline. Be sure to look up the requirements specific to the country you visit.
Pet Travel Agencies: If traveling internationally, you may want to use a pet travel agency to assist with logistics and paperwork.
While Traveling: Happiness for Your Pet
Once you reach your destination, keeping your pet content is essential:
Stick to Their Normal Routine: Keep their normal feeding, potty, and sleep schedules as much as you can to reduce stress.
Exercise and Play: Offer ample opportunities for physical activity, whether it’s a walk in the park or a play session, or a visit to pet-friendly beaches or trails.
Monitor Their Health: Watch for signs of stress or discomfort, and take action right away. Get them plenty to drink and keep an eye out for any abnormal behavior.
Going back Home: Pilgrimage to Home
After a long trip, it can be especially important to settle your pet back into their routine:
Allow Time for Recovery: Traveling can be draining for pets, so allow time to readjust back to their surroundings and rest up.
Stick to Schedule: Get them back to their regular routine as soon as you can so there’s no confusion or stress.processing and separation anxiety
Conclusion
Traveling with a pet involves a little extra care and preparation, but if you plan ahead, it can be a really rewarding experience for you and your animal friend. Whether it’s hitting the road for a road trip or catching a flight halfway across the world, making sure your pet is comfortable, safe and entertained will ensure your trip goes smoothly.
Join us at Pets Fun Zone today for quick travel tips and advice, and to connect with a community of like-minded pet owners.
