Who doesn’t like taking holidays? But when you have pets, it gets a little bittersweet to head out and enjoy, because there's a good chance you’ll either worry about their well-being or miss their companionship, thinking, "It’d have been so much fun if they were here!"
Being a pet parent comes with its unique set of challenges, like the dilemma of staying away from your beloved pet. But why settle for that when you can bring them along on your adventures?
Traveling with pets isn’t just a trip; it’s an adventure peppered with joy and shared discoveries. Keep a few things that we’ve mentioned in mind to dodge mishaps, and you’re all set for a memorable journey.
Ensure Your Pet is Road-Ready
It might seem as basic as it gets, but confirming your pet’s readiness for travel with a vet is crucial. Book a pre-trip check-up to see if your furry friend needs any special care on the road. Keep their vaccines and a health certificate handy, as these documents might be required at your destination. Packing an emergency aid kit with necessary medicines and ointments is essential for peace of mind.
Cozy Up Their Travel Space
Especially for dogs, it is necessary to get them comfortable while you’re traveling. Pet carriers for dogs can be of great help. If it’s a road trip, buy a specialized seat belt for your doggos, so they don’t hurt themselves during the journey. Cats like to curl up in their beds to get them comfortable. Get cozy and narrow pet carriers for cats, so they can relax and sleep.
Navigate Airline Policies with Ease
Some airlines welcome pets, while others don’t. Check with your airline ahead of time to ensure a smooth journey. Delve into the specific guidelines about pet carriers’ required weight, size, and material to avoid any surprises.
Acclimate Your Pet to Travel
Whether it's a road trip or a long trip which includes using multiple modes of transport, you need to accommodate your pet to the new changes that are going to take place. Dogs and cats can be a little anxious if they are faced with a new environment suddenly. So, to take care of their well-being, it is necessary to inculcate a few pet-friendly activities to make them settle into the new environment slowly such as taking them on a short road trip or an hour-long flight, depending on the requirement.
Pack a Pet-Exclusive Travel Bag
Take a bag out specifically for your furry friend. Just like you pack a bag for yourself, packing one for your pet is necessary. Here’s what you can add to their bag:
- Lots of food
- Toys
- A leash and harness
- Food and water trays
- Treats, a lot of them
- Waste disposal bags
- Any medication that your pet takes
- A brush and grooming supplies
- A pet bed and blanket
Secure Your Pet with an ID Tag
When you are on the road, make sure that your pet has an ID attached to them. An ID can help you with identification and keeping a photo of them with you in case they stroll away is always a good option. Use a microchip and attach it to your dog or cat’s collar. It must be done because if your dog or cat is lost, you can track and find them.
Choose Pet-Welcoming Accommodations
Choosing to stay at a place where your pets are welcome and would want to enjoy is necessary. A lot of pet-friendly places have started coming up but, in some locations, it might be hard to take your pet. So, check beforehand if the place you’re going to stay at allows pets or not. They might take some extra deposit or have extra pet-related charges. Send an email or make a call asking the place you’re going to before the check-in about your pet coming along, so there aren’t any problems later.
Embark on an Unforgettable Journey Together
Going on a trip with your pet can help create amazing memories but to make sure that the trip is perfect, you need to plan it well. To start with, ensure the destinations you are choosing are pet-friendly and offer various activities for your pets to enjoy. Considering your pet's needs, look for beaches for dogs and hiking for cats. Know the local pet and leash laws. Pack things like food and medicines along with various other things such as a waste bag for when they want to poop and a food tray so you can feed them. Make sure to have a lot of fun so it can be memorable and fun for both of you. Leave everything else and live in the present moment to make the best out of this adventure.