Easy Travel Tips for Taking Your Pet On Vacation with You
We are pleased to have this guest blog post brought to you by Fieldstone Animal Inn.
Are you planning to take your furry friend with you on your next vacation? Planning a holiday with your pets is an exciting idea. Whether you’re traveling on a flight or going for a car ride, sharing moments with your pets can create lifelong memories. However, some pet parents feel concerned especially if their dogs or cats are not adaptable or healthy. Careful and advanced preparation will ensure comfort for you and your pets. These being said, here are a few tips to help you prepare for a trip with your pets.
Choose the best holiday spot
Not every destination is welcoming to your pets. But there are some places that allow pet-friendly stays and let you explore walking trails. National parks and countryside cottages are the most suitable places for a vacation with pets. Some dog owners claim that it is difficult to manage street dogs when they take their pets to the coastal areas. That is why you can look for a quieter hillside to keep your canine pets safe from other animals.
Mode of your travel
Most pet owners claim that a road trip is the most convenient choice for furry animals. If you have decided on a flight or train journey, check the guidelines before purchasing tickets. For instance, you may visit the airline company’s website to learn about its protocols regarding pet travel. You can also invest in airline-approved carriers for a safe journey for your pets. Ferries and trains also offer some pet-friendly options. Thus, explore the transport methods for your canine companions.
Visit a vet before the trip
The most significant step before planning the trip is to schedule an appointment for your pet’s health checkup with a vet. This will ensure that your pet is healthy enough to enjoy the trip. The vet may recommend vaccination and ensure protection against parasites. For a flight journey, inform the vet if your pet has motion sickness.
Look for a pet-friendly resort
Will the chosen accommodation welcome your pets? You should book a room in a pet-friendly hotel to avoid hassles. The best hotels have dedicated areas for pets, but you must know their rules. You may also find fenced gardens that will keep your companion secure. 5-star pet-friendly accommodations offer special treats to pets on arrival.
Never overlook your pet’s safety
Safety is the key factor you should consider for your pets when traveling. Most experts recommend micro-chipping pet animals to add security. Moreover, the ID tag added to your pets should have up-to-date contact details. It is also essential to carry the latest vaccination record because some hotels may ask you to show it. Most dog owners buckle up their pets for safety. Dogs love to feel the fresh air during their travels. However, for cats, you have to use carriers. Never leave pets unattended inside a vehicle, especially in hot weather. The temperature inside a car can rise rapidly, posing serious health risks to your pets.
Train your pets to be comfortable with confinement
You should train your furry friend to remain confined. You may not always find a large area where your dogs or other animals can roam around. That is why training is essential to stay confined in hotel rooms and other areas. Start providing small lessons every day and make your pets familiar with a confined environment. You may also look for experts to provide confinement training.
Carry bedding essentials
During a train or car journey, your pets expect a comfortable nap. So, you can buy specially designed pet mats that are easy to carry. Roll up the mats and put them into your bag. You may also pack pillows and blankets to make pets feel cozy during their sleep hours. If the weather is cold, choose heating pads for your pets.
Choose hygiene maintenance kits
Most pet parents feel concerned about cleaning their pets’ waste during a trip. To avoid hygiene issues, you may use reusable pee pads for your dogs. Cat owners should choose easy-to-flush litter trays. Moreover, puppies and adult dogs might need disposable diapers for hygiene management. When you visit any place, use disposable poop bags to avoid a mess.
Carry grooming kits
If your vacation covers multiple days, your pet might need to be groomed. Humid climates cause tangling issues to your pet’s fur. Hilly areas also increase the risk for fleas and ticks. So, it’s wise to use anti-tick shampoos for your pets. (We love the natural tick repellants by Only Natural Pet)Waterless shampoos are the best choice for hassle-free grooming. Moreover, your pet’s paws need attention, as they attract mud and dirt. Use alcohol-free pet sanitizers to clean their paws.
Foods that you should pack
Commercially manufactured pet foods are convenient and easy to carry anywhere. The pre-portioned meals also ensure your pets will receive proper nutrition. Some people also choose freeze-dried raw foods for traveling pets. However, for a short trip, you may choose fresh homemade meals, such as veggies and boiled chicken. Chopped apples and blueberries are also healthy snack options for any animal. Ensure the meals you’ve chosen are digestible, and that they are familiar with it to prevent stomach issues. Your pets must stick to the eating routine to avoid stress. For a summer trip, don’t forget to carry an adequate amount of water to keep them hydrated. In the end, your pets’ health and safety are important when you travel with them. Most cats and dogs like to enjoy a trip with their masters. But, these few efforts will make your outing memorable.
Have fun and safe travels!
