10 Best Tips For Traveling With Pets

Whether you’re on a weekend getaway or an extended vacation, traveling with your pets can be fun and rewarding. However, it’s important to know what to expect before embarking on your journey. We have complied some of the best tips for making sure that your pet is happy and healthy while traveling with you.

1. Make sure your pet is up to date on all vaccinations before traveling anywhere whether it’s a couple hours away or across the country. Also, its always a good idea to travel with any vaccination records or veteranary documentation when your pet accompanies you.
2. Don’t forget to pack your pets favorite toy and/or blanket. Familiar items can be comforting to your pet while on the road in otherwise unfamiliar places.
3. If traveling with an untrained puppy or a new pet, make sure you pack good and nutritious food for them. Wholistic, natural foods are usually better for pets and can reduce accidents along the way (or where you are staying).
4. Pack plenty of fresh water. Pet stores usually sell collapsible food and water dishes, which are an excellent way to keep your pet hydrated on long trips and save space.
5. Pack an extra leash and collar. This is especially important if traveling with more than one pet or your dog can be known to spook on occasion (leashes are great for keeping pets safe). Plus, you don’t want to be far away from home to find you’ve left your only leash somewhere.
6. Pack a pet first aid kit. As with any traveling, things can go wrong and its important to be prepared for emergencies as well as for other health concerns your pet may have. Things like gauze, non-stick bandages, adhesive tape, cotton balls, hydrogen peroxide, and antibiotic spray/ointment can come in handy – not just for your pet, but for you too!
7. Whether traveling with your pet in a car or plane, they will most likely need to be restrained. Make sure you have the proper equipment for traveling and that it is secure but comfortable enough for your pet. Pet harnesses, dog seat belts, and collapsible travel cages/crates are all must haves.
8. If traveling by plane, find out what the pet policy is for traveling with animals on your flight. Most airlines have a fee for this service and may or may not include things like food, water, cages/crates.
9. If traveling by car, make sure that your pet’s carrier or crate is properly ventilated. Make a trip to the vet before traveling if you suspect any respiratory problems with your pet and always be prepared for emergencies (with a first aid kit and plenty of water).
10. Pack the pet wipes. It’s always great to include some disposable pet wipes in case your dog decides to roll around in something at the rest area. While we’re on the subject, don’t forget to pack plenty of poo-bags too!

Traveling with your pets can be an enjoyable experience for both you and them, but if you’re not properly prepared it can be a nightmare. Following our common sense pet travel tips can take the frustration out of the mix. Lastly, if you plan on staying overnight in any hotels, make sure you check to see if they’re pet friendly. Many hotels now offer amenities such as dog beds and treats upon arrival.