Wanderlust Wonders: Traveling With Pets Made Easy
Travelling without any prior preparation can have a physical, emotional, and behavioural impact on your pet. Here’s how you can prepare for the journey and make it a smooth ride! – by Dr. Siraj Ansari
Enjoying a fantastic trip with your pet only becomes better if you prepare ahead of time to ensure your furry friend’s comfort and safety. Keep these tips in mind for safe and happy travels!
Roam and Rover: Adventures with your furry friend
Before your journey, these are some points you should take care of.
Visit the Vet
Ensure your pet has received all necessary vaccines, and obtained a health certificate if needed. Consult your vet about any travel-related worries and motion sickness prevention techniques.
Essentials to Pack
Here’s the checklist –
- Water and food bowls
- Lots of food and treats (enough to last the whole journey)
- Leash, collar with ID tags,
- Trash bags
- Cozy blankets or bedding
- Medications
- Toys
Make sure your contact details are current on your pet’s ID tags. For further security, think about using a microchip.
Paws on the move – Making car travel safe and happy
To keep your pet safe, use a dog seatbelt or a well-ventilated box. Every few hours, pause to give your pet a chance to relieve herself, stretch, and take a quick water break. During breaks, make sure your furry friend is always wearing a leash.
Never leave your pet alone in the car, especially when it is parked. The temperature can soar quickly which can be dangerous for your pet!
From leashes to landmarks
Check airline policies while traveling by air: Review the specific airline’s pet travel policies and requirements. Book a direct flight if possible to minimize travel time and stress.
Suitable carrier: Make use of a well-ventilated, roomy carrier that has been approved by the airline so that your pet can easily lie down, stand, and turn around.
Before the trip, acquaint her with the carrier.
Preparation for the flight: To keep your pet comfortable during the travel, avoid giving her a big meal right before the flight. Make sure she has received enough exercise before the flight.
Take care of ‘Tails on Tour’
Pet-friendly lodging accommodations: Make early reservations for pet-friendly lodging and check the policies about pets. Your pet will feel more at home if you bring a familiar blanket or bed.
Routine upkeep: Try to follow your pet’s routine for feeding, walks, and potty schedule as much as possible. Abide by the hotel’s policies and tidy up after your pet has done his job.
Obey leash laws: Find out about pet restrictions and leash laws in the places you want to visit. In new places, always keep your dog on a leash.
Savor the Journey
Take time to explore parks and attractions that welcome dogs. Make sure your pet has plenty of mental and physical stimulation when traveling. If you prepare and take good care of your pet, traveling with them may be a joyful experience.
It might take a little more time and patience, but traveling with your pet brings a lifetime of memories! So, what are you waiting for… Adventure awaits in every corner of the world. Just pack those bags and take the plunge….
(Dr. Siraj Ansari – M. V. Sc. Scholar, Division of Medicine, Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Izatnagar, Bareilly, India)