Pet Travel: Safety Tips You Should Know for a Hassle-Free Travel

A quick escape from the city is fun, but what makes traveling even more worthwhile is when you travel with your pets. Before making that travel decision and tagging them along, ensure that they are safe and comfortable during travel by following these general safety travel tips.

PLAN IN ADVANCE

The present situation we are in makes traveling these days a little challenging. For this reason, planning ahead of time is necessary. Whether traveling by air or land, make sure to research your destination, its policies, and travel restrictions, if any.

PACK THEIR ITEMS

If you plan to go on an overnight, make sure to pack items that your pet needs. This may include food, water, toys, clothes, diaper, blankets, and other pet essentials.

BRING WATER FROM HOME

This is important as some water from different locations contains minerals that can upset your pet’s stomach and can result in loose stool.

PROPER IDENTIFICATION

When traveling, it is helpful to have proper identification at all times. Make sure your pet is wearing a collar with an ID tag that includes your pet’s name, your name, address, and contact number. Some states require pets to be chipped before traveling. This can help locate your pets easily in case they get lost. If your pet is already chipped, make sure that all contact information is up to date before traveling.

KEEP THEM RESTRAINED

The safest way to travel with pets is to keep them restrained in a crate. Ensure that the crate has proper ventilation and is big enough to allow your pets to sit, stand, lie down, and move around.

KEEP MEDICAL RECORDS UP-TO-DATE

Accidents and emergencies are unpredictable. Secure medical records and keep them up-to-date before traveling. Also, check with your veterinarian if your pet is fit for travel. Make a list of veterinarians or pet hospitals that are near your location where you plan to stay. This comes in handy in case of emergencies.

BRING FIRST AID KITS

This applies to both humans and pets. You will never know what might happen while traveling so bringing first aid kits with you can be beneficial.

TAKE A BREAK IN BETWEEN CAR TRIPS

Long travel can be stressful for your pets. Your pets deserve to have rest stops and a potty break. Provide them an opportunity to stretch, relax, and have bathroom breaks before heading to your next destination.

WHEN IN DOUBT, LEAVE YOUR PETS AT HOME

While it can be more fun traveling with your lovely pets, long trips can be stressful for some animals. If your pet is old, sick, or not used to traveling and tends to be anxious, it’s probably best to leave them at home and entrust them to a caregiver.