Tips for People Travelling with Pets

Tips for People Travelling with Pets

Barbara Hanly

As a pet parent, it's only normal to be interested in travelling together with your pet. However, the travel in itself can be a stressful experience for your pet, especially if you're going to a new place. For this reason, you should try and make your pet's journey as safe and as comfortable as it is possible.

 

The most important thing, regardless of the actual destination, is that your pet has a microchip that can be used for identification purposes, as well as a collar with a tag that contains all of the necessary contact information.

A temporary travel tag can also be attached to the collar, containing your destination address and mobile number.


A safe plane travel with adequate preparation


The decision to travel by plane depends on the size of your pet. For example, a small-sized dog might be allowed to stay under your seat while a larger one will require special accommodations.

If you do have to travel by plane, here are several suggestions to make the whole journey more comfortable.

Take your pet to the vet for a pre-travel consultation:


The trip to the vet is necessary in order to ensure that your pet has all the vaccinations necessary for the trip, as well as the best possible state of health for such travels (a health certificate will be issued by the vet).


Ensure a comfortable crate for your pet's flight:


There are standard shipping crates that can be purchased, these being large enough for your pet to stand and move around. Ensure proper bedding to avoid accidents and check the lock on the crate, making sure that it locks adequately. The crate should be marked with the inscription "live animal", as well as contain your contact info.


Direct flights are recommended:


A direct flight will ensure the least amount of stress for your pet, reducing the risk of them becoming anxious. Keep in mind that, upon changing flights, there are risks related to your pet being mis-handled or even lost. If you do have to change flights, make sure to ask the airport personnel about your pet.

Travelling by car requires some adaptations as well:


If you have decided to take a road trip with your pet, you have to do some preparations ahead. For example, you can teach your dog basic commands, as these will ensure a stress-free journey and the adequate obedience during the entire period you are on the road.


Accustom your pet to car travels:


You can begin by taking a short drive every day, accustoming your pet to being in the car. Increase the amount of the drive gradually, until you see that your pet has accommodated to the whole experience.


Opt for a special transportation crate/carrier:


As with the one recommended for air travels, you should opt for a crate in which your pet can stand and turn around. There are special transportation crates or carriers that can be used in cars, ensuring a safe travel.


Pack your pet's travel necessities:


In organising the travel kit for your pet, don't forget to include dried food and water, his/her bowl, a scoop and plastic bags for waste, as well medication and a first aid kit. You can also pack a favourite toy and, of course, the necessary travel documents.


Note: pets should never be left alone in a vehicle, with the windows closed, especially during the summer! (risk of death)


A train travel with your pet can be wonderful:


For those of you looking to travel by train, accompanied by their pets, the first thing to consider is finding a pet-friendly train. Pets and service animals have different permissions, so do not confuse these two categories.


These are some of the requirements for train travels with pets:

  • Up-to-date vaccinations, especially for rabies
  • Implantation of microchip with at least three weeks before travelling
  • Pet passport and health certificate issued by the vet
  • Pet must be trained and obedient
  • Depending on the weight, it can travel in a bag, carrier or special crate.


In conclusion, these are some of the tips that you can follow when travelling with pets. Always remember that your pet's safety and comfort are primary objectives, and you must take all of the necessary measures to ensure them throughout the entire journey.


This article originally appeard on

www.herepup.com/airplane-tips-for-people-travelling-with-pets/

via

www.simplyfordogs.com

Teach your dog basic commands

https://simplyfordogs.com/teach-dog/12-commands-to-teach-every-dog/