So there you are, wondering if it’s safe to bring your precious dog on your next travel adventure. While carrying your pet might cause you some inconvenience, it’s something that you’ll still consider to have peace of mind.
Many people consider their pets family. And it’s no surprise that they don’t want to leave their pets behind whenever they go on vacations. However, there are some safety measures to follow to keep them safe at all times. Here’s what you need to do for a safe journey with your pet.
Find out if traveling is safe for your pet
It’s usually safe for young pets to travel, especially if they don’t have any health problems. However, older dogs and cats find traveling a bit uncomfortable. If your pet is too old to travel, it would be wiser to leave them with a pet sitter instead. Taking them might exhaust and stress them too much, which isn’t healthy.
If possible, take your pet to the veterinarian before bringing them along. The doctor will let you know if traveling is safe for your dog or not. Make sure to follow the doctor’s instructions to ensure your pet’s safety.
Update pet tags
Whether traveling by train, car, or plane, make sure that your pet is wearing an updated tag. It’s easy for pets to get lost in foreign places, so make sure that pets’ tags include your name, address, phone number, and all vital information.
Bring medical papers
Don’t forget to bring your pet’s current medication in your travels- you might need it in case of emergencies. Also, make sure to get their preventatives such as tick, flea, and heartworm prescriptions.
Make sure that your pet’s health is in excellent condition before you take them on long trips. It’s not like they will wear a senior alert system to keep you informed if something’s going on. Many pet owners lose their pets during plane rides because of negligence- avoid committing the same mistake.
Avoid overfeeding before traveling
Traveling can be somewhat stressful for pets. They might feel anxious during the whole journey. One of the common symptoms of anxiety among animals is diarrhea, which is the last thing you’ll want to deal with on a long plane ride.
Even though you think your pet won’t be stressed during the trip, a slow car motion can still upset their stomach. To prevent any unwanted events, make sure to feed your pet less than usual before traveling or, better yet, keep their tummy empty in the meantime.
Keep the animal hydrated
Animals don’t always have easy access to water whenever they’re traveling. And because of this, they can quickly get dehydrated. Don’t forget to pack an extra bottle of water for your pet and give them water as often as possible.
If your pet is staying on a crate, it is ideal to attach a bowl inside filled with water, so they can drink whenever they want. But if this method is not possible, make sure to stop often to allow your pet to drink.
Don’t give tranquilizers
Giving pets tranquilizers is a common mistake of many pet owners. But this is a practice that veterinarians don’t support. If you’re traveling by air, tranquilizers can put your animal at risk of respiratory problems and heart disease. Cats and short-nosed dogs are more prone to the risk, so it’s essential to be aware.
Give them toys
Toys can help your animal relax during a long trip. Make sure to pack their favorite stuffed animal or anything that would calm them down. When your pet is too focused on playing with toys, they will most likely forget the stress they’re feeling due to traveling.
Get a health certificate
When traveling on foreign land, authorities will most likely ask you to present your pet’s documents. Some countries even ask you to show a health certificate, and it could be a hassle if you don’t have one with you.
Make sure to get an updated health certificate for your furry baby just in case you need it. It’s always better to be prepared in situations like this.
Choose pet-friendly accommodations
You don’t have to worry about your pet sleeping outdoors as many hotels allow pets. You might need to pay extra fees for them, but that’s just the price to pay to have a comfortable night with your loyal companion.
Before booking a hotel room, make sure that they allow pets and find out if they have any restrictions. Some hotels only allow small breed dogs and cats. It’s vital to know all the details to ensure that you don’t spend the night alone.
Bringing your pet on your adventures can be fun and exciting. But having fun can come with repercussions if pet owners don’t follow safety measures. Always ensure that your dog is fit to travel to keep them safe from harm. Consult their veterinarian as much as possible to be on the safe side.
