Traveling long distances can be stressful, and adding a crying sick dog, a shivering pet, or a noisy puppy to your carry-on situation could make it more challenging for you. If you’re planning to travel soon, You’re probably contemplating, “What about my dog?”
There are options including hiring an animal sitter, boarding your pet, or traveling with your pet when you’re brave enough to take it on. When planning a trip for your pet, it is essential to consider the dog’s temperament, health, and previous travel experiences.
Travel Preparation Involving Pets
It is exciting to go on a road trip with your pet, and this is particularly true when your pet has the ability to walk on four legs and has a tail and whiskers. Consider the following safety guidelines if you’re planning an adventure and would like to take your pet along with you.
1. Pre-veterinary Visit
Schedule an appointment with your dog’s vet visit before you depart. Airlines require pets to be certified as healthy at least ten days before your departure, so be sure that your pet is current in their vaccinations. Since some dogs are not suitable for travel to other countries, it is recommended that you consult your vet to determine if they’re the right candidate for boarding or to consider other options.
Reputable facilities like Oak Grove Animal Hospital can take excellent care of your pet. Comprehensive and compassionate veterinary care is always available if you seek the help and assistance of a veterinarian.
2. Train Your Pet
A well-trained dog makes traveling easier and safer for all. You can use rewards and praise to motivate your dog to do well during your journey by reiterating important travel rules by providing positive reinforcement. You can tell your dog “Wait” before leaving the vehicle to ensure it won’t leap out and run around. It is vital that your dog associates their cage or safety harness with their favorite toys and treats to make it an enjoyable moment for them. Begin training your dog by yourself or a professional before you go on vacation.
3. Practice Safety
Never let your pet ride in the front seat of your car. Keep your pet’s head in the vehicle always. Despite their love of the breeze blowing through their hair, they’re at the risk of getting eye or ear injuries and infections. Do not leave your dog unattended when driving. Within less than half an hour, even on a calm day, the temperature inside your car could reach dangerous levels.
To prevent unwanted pregnancies of your pet, you can schedule a visit in a spay & neuter vet clinic to perform the procedure.
4. Prepare for Emergency
Be prepared for the worst-case scenario, like losing your pet or suffering from a medical problem. Whatever distance you are from your home, having a microchip with valid identification can help you quickly and safely return to your pet. The current identification tags of your pet must be attached to their collar when you are far from your home. Create a list of all the emergency vet clinics along your journey and at your final destination, write down the phone numbers and addresses of each or visit their webpage for more info.
5. Be patient
It is not possible to predict all issues that may arise during your travels, and you won’t be able to predict your pet’s behavior in a new environment. Be patient not just with your pet but also with yourself through the ups and downs of your trip. Take time to enjoy the journey, and don’t forget to create some lasting memories on the way.
