Preparing for Spring break is exciting, but when traveling with pets, it’s essential to plan ahead for a smooth experience. Here are some practical travel tips and tricks to ensure your pet’s comfort and health while on vacation.
1. Plan a Vet Visit Before You Go
Before embarking on any trip, schedule a checkup with your veterinarian to make sure your pet is healthy and travel-ready.
- Vaccinations and Health Records: Ensure your pet is up to date on vaccinations and ask for a copy of their health records in case of emergencies.
- Travel Anxiety Solutions: If your pet experiences travel anxiety, your vet can recommend calming supplements or medications.
- Traveling out of state or via air may require special travel documents. Check with your veterinarian.
- Traveling with a pet out of the country DOES require special documents. Check with your veterinarian well in advance for any requirements if traveling out of the country with your pet.
2. Choose Pet-Friendly Destinations
Not all places welcome pets, so it’s essential to do your research.
- Pet-Friendly Hotels: Look for accommodations that cater to pets and offer amenities like pet beds, bowls, and walking areas.
3. Pack the Essentials
Create a travel kit with everything your pet will need during the trip.
- Food, treats, and water, food and water bowls, leash, harness, and collar with updated ID tags, waste bags, and litter supplies, comfort items like a favorite toy or blanket, medications, and a basic first-aid kit.
4. Travel Safety Tips
- Car Travel: Secure your pet with a travel crate or harness to prevent injuries. Plan for frequent rest stops to allow bathroom breaks, exercise, and hydration.
- Air Travel: Confirm airline pet policies and requirements ahead of time. Smaller pets may be allowed in the cabin, while larger ones may need to travel in the cargo hold.
- Motion Sickness: If your pet is prone to motion sickness, ask your vet about possible remedies.
If your pet has a sensitive stomach, talk to your vet about possible remedies.
5. Maintain a Routine
Pets thrive on routine, so try to stick to their normal feeding, playtime, and sleeping schedules. This consistency helps reduce travel-related stress.
6. Microchip and ID Update
Make sure your pet’s ID tags are updated with your current contact information. If your pet isn’t already microchipped, consider doing so before your trip!
Consider adding an Apple AirTag to your pet’s collar to help locate him/her if you should lose sight of them.
If you have any questions about your pet’s health, safety, or travel preparations, CityVet is here to help. Our team can provide advice tailored to your pet’s needs, ensuring you’re ready for any adventure. Schedule your pre-travel check-up with us for peace of mind knowing your pet is well taken care of!