How to Travel with a Pet

When making travel decisions regarding pets, you should choose the safest and most comfortable option there is. You need to make pre-travel plans to successfully travel with a pet.

These include the following tips:

1. Rehearse With Your Pet

If you’ve never taken your pet along for a long journey, you might want to prepare them by taking them on short car rides and then gradually increasing the time. You should also put them in the crate or carrier so they are used to it.

2. Buy the Right Carrier or Crate

If you are buying a carrier or a crate, ensure that it is International Air Transport Association (IATA) approved. You should also see to it that the crate is large enough for your pet to sit and turn around in.

3. Prepare the Crate for Comfort

Line the crate with absorbent bedding. You can also keep a frozen bowl of water which melts when your pet gets thirsty. Properly close the crate but don’t lock it so you can access it in case of emergencies. Keep a bag of dry foods to the outside of the crate so you can feed your pet during the long journey. Also, attach your pet’s identification so as not to misplace them.

4. No Crate, No Problem

If you don’t have a crate then make sure your pet keeps its head inside the vehicle at all times. Pets in the back seat should be kept in a harness which can be attached to the seat belt buckle.

Additional tips include:

After making pre-travel plans, you should research the pet rules of the destination you plan to visit. Many countries have specific vaccination, health and quarantine rules.

When it comes to traveling with pets on an airline, you should research the different rules as well. There are different in-cabin pet travel requirements so you should check up on those. If you plan to travel by boat then check the pet policy there.

Don’t leave your pet alone on a vehicle to avoid theft and heatstroke etc.

After preparing for the mode of travel, you want to ensure that your accommodation allows pets. Make sure your accommodation is pet-friendly. Review the rules of the types of pets allowed before making travel plans.

You should ensure your pet is healthy before setting out to travel. This means getting tests done, taking their medications and making one last trip to the vet. You can even consider investing in calming products for your pet like lavender oil or taking their favorite toy along. You can also keep collars and leashes for restraining purposes if need be.

Another  important tip is to also watch your pet’s diet before the trip to make sure they don’t have an upset stomach and to prepare them for the travel diet. Lastly, you should have an emergency plan in case you need to send your pet back home for some reason. You can also get pet insurance if you feel that is necessary.

Now that you know how to travel with a pet, make the most of your travel plans! Contact us here at Trade Show Travel Co to book your next getaway with a furry friend.