Traveling with your pet is something that should not be taken lightly, it is necessary to follow certain protocols and be well prepared for your journey. Be it by flight or by road trip it is essential to first schedule an appointment with your trusted veterinarian for a complete health check-up.
It is important to check whether your dog’s vaccinations are up to date and that your pet is mentally and physically fit to travel. If all this is in place, next proceed with the items that will make your pet’s journey both comfortable and fulfilling.
THINGS TO CARRY
Take your dogs comfort items along, such as his favorite toy and blanket, his own food and water bowl.
If you are going on a road trip take a doggy water bottle with you on hand and a couple of his/her favorite treats.
A sturdy leash- you can carry your slip lead and regular leash depending on the types of walks you will be doing. Consider taking more than one leash if you are going on a trip that requires adventurous activity such as long walks or trekking.
Investing in a good dog car seat to collect hair, shedding, and dander is something you need to do if you are traveling by road.
Make sure that you take any of the necessary medications your dog might be taking, and essential vitamin supplements.
Take a collapsible crate or your dog’s bed if you are travelling for a long period of time.
Make sure that you have your dog’s identification tag and any important papers on hand.
Have poop bags in the ready and plenty of wet wipes and tissue on hand for any car sickness, and toilet breaks.
Take your dogs comfort items along, such as his favorite toy and blanket, his own food and water bowl.
If you are going on a road trip take a doggy water bottle with you on hand and a couple of his/her favorite treats.
A sturdy leash- you can carry your slip lead and regular leash depending on the types of walks you will be doing. Consider taking more than one leash if you are going on a trip that requires adventurous activity such as long walks or trekking.
Investing in a good dog car seat to collect hair, shedding, and dander is something you need to do if you are traveling by road.
Make sure that you take any of the necessary medications your dog might be taking, and essential vitamin supplements.
Take a collapsible crate or your dog’s bed if you are travelling for a long period of time.
Make sure that you have your dog’s identification tag and any important papers on hand.
Have poop bags in the ready and plenty of wet wipes and tissue on hand for any car sickness, and toilet breaks.
TRAVEL TIPS
Never leave your dog unattended in the car for long periods of time. Especially in places with a hot and humid climate.
Always opt for pet-friendly places to stay with plenty of open space for your dog to get frequent exercise and walks.
If traveling by flight check with the airlines and take the necessary steps involved after discussing with them and your veterinarian.
Remember that each airline has its own rules and regulations when it comes to traveling with your dog.
For example, if your crate doesn’t meet its requirements, the airline may not allow you to use it.
However, they might allow your dog in the passenger cabin if you have a small dog and it’s carrier fits under the seat in front of you.
Airlines make it clear that it is the owner’s responsibility to verify the dog’s health and ability to fly.
OTHER IMPORTANT POINTS TO CONSIDER
Ask a trusted veterinarian if it would be best for your dog to be sedated for the trip and the necessary medications required for air travel.
Also, be sure to check the temperature of the flight’s starting point and destination; as this is vital for your dog.
When traveling by plane, plan to visit your veterinarian before your trip, and take the necessary tests, such as a blood test and ECG, and have up-to-date vaccination records.
Certification of health must be provided to the airline weeks before you travel.
Young puppies below 8 weeks should not travel and senior dogs with health constraints.
Remember traveling with your dog is a great bonding experience for both pet parent and pooch, but it also comes with a lot of responsibility. When you have a checklist in place and plan your trip in advance, it is going to definitely be a smooth sailing trip for both your four-legged pal and you.
