Are you ready to go on that road trip? What about flying across the country to visit family? Either way, you’ll probably want to bring your beloved pet along. As fun as it is to have your furry companion by your side, it means some extra preparation. Every animal has their own needs and every type of travel route has different guidelines. So, let’s explore the basic safety precautions you need to consider when bringing along your energetic Fido or sassy feline.
1. Pack The Basics
Before taking off on your wild adventure, consider what your pet will need during the trip. Portable bowls are a must, as they’ll need food and water even when you’re on the road. Their medication still has to be taken even during a road trip. Do they need sedatives to calm them during the flight? A carrier might be needed if you’re flying, too.
2. Identification Tags Are Crucial
You never know when that wily pet is going to make a break for it. Animals get excited and scared easily, so having identification tags on their collar will significantly help those who find Fido. Microchips are even better, as you can track their whereabouts.
3. Bring Necessary Medications
Whether they need it every day or only occasionally, keeping their medication on hand is important. Emergencies can happen, so make sure it’s in close proximity. Maybe invest in a doggy vest, so that they can hold their own medication and supplies? If you’re going hiking on your adventure, this is a great addition to have.
4. Bring Health Certificates
Crossing state and international borders require paperwork for both you and your pets. You need to bring health certificates and proof of rabies vaccinations in order to cross. If you cross without getting checked the first time, the second time might mean losing your pet to the border patrol if you don’t have the paperwork.
5. Collars And Leashes Are Needed
We want our furry companions to run wild and free, but most places disagree. Collars and leashes are necessary if you’re going to be bringing them to a public space. Even if they’re the friendliest dog, they could jump onto someone who is allergic or has a hankering for trouble. Don’t risk it when it comes to your pet.
6. Pack A First-Aid Kit
Your pet can get into trouble even with a leash. You can lose your grip, and they could get in a fight with another dog. Your cat could jump too far and sprain their ankle. The possibilities are endless when it comes to injuries, so pack a first aid kit for both you and your pet.
7. Restrain Your Pet During Travel
During flight, your pet will need to be restrained. If that means being put in a kennel for a few hours, then you have to do it. During drives, having them loose can be great, but also very distracting. Attach the opposite end of their leash to a stable bar in the back of the vehicle. Don’t worry, you can let them out to stretch as often as you like.
8. Keep The Temperature In Mind
We can’t stress enough that you should never leave your pet in a locked car during extreme weather. If it’s higher than seventy degrees or lower than thirty five degrees it could mean illness and even death. You may be running in for “only a couple of minutes,” but things happen. You can forget, get held up in line, or even arrested for shoplifting (yes, we realize it’s a false accusation, don’t worry).
9. Always Stop To Feed And Water Your Pet
Animals are prone to car sickness, so always stop to feed and water them. This should be done regularly, even more so than usual due to excitement burning their energy away. Plus, this gives them a chance to stretch, which is something you both should do.
10. Don’t Overwork Your Pet
Your itinerary may be packed full of great adventures, but remember that you shouldn’t overwork yourself or your pet. Your pet is adapting to new people, smells, locations, and changes they haven’t experienced before. They’re going to have a harder time adapting than you. Keep this in mind, and you’ll both have a wonderful time together.
Are you all packed and ready to go? Traveling with your beloved pet is a great experience to have. They’re going to have a lot more fun with you than in that boarding kennel you would have had babysit them. They’ll get to explore new types of trees to pee on and new roadkill to smell. What an exciting prospect, right? Well, they think so. Don’t forget that your cat will enjoy watching the scenery fly by on the drive. Observing is their favorite hobby, after all. With that said, we wish you safe travels.
