Dec 15, 2022 | By, For Pet's Sake
Bring your pet along for the ride this holiday season!
Traveling is common for many households around the holidays. If your family includes a pet (or several), planning trips can be stressful or sad as you decide what to do with your furry friends. It doesn’t need to be that way though. A little extra preparation can allow you to bring your pet(s) with you!
As long as your pet isn’t anxious about cars and the sounds of the road, you can bring them in the backseat and take a road trip to your destination. Perhaps you have an RV or can rent one for the long drive. These big rigs are more comfortable for all, and your pet may appreciate a couch instead of a regular car seat.
Keep in mind that you’ll need to secure your pet, no matter what type of vehicle you choose. This can be done by putting them in their kennel or by connecting their harness to a pet seatbelt. Never put your pet in the vehicle unsecured, in your lap, in the truck bed, or in a crate that is placed on a seat.
If you plan to travel by air, bus, or train, beware of specific guidelines and restrictions held by each travel company. It is always best to research or inquire about these rules before you book a trip. If your pet will be required to stay in a travel kennel that meets certain dimensions, it’s a good idea to acclimate your pet to that new kennel so they are as comfortable as possible when it’s time to travel.
You may also consider taking your pet on a ferry! These coastal methods of transportation are a fun and easy way to visit an island or beach, and they are much smoother than planes or vehicles.
Traveling definitely isn’t easy, and the more bodies you add to the adventure, the more stressful it can get. If you’re concerned about an upcoming trip, try these preparation tips to ease your mind.
- Make your pet familiar with their travel carrier. Encourage them with treats and a calm environment so they learn to associate the carrier with positive experiences.
- Practice with shorter trips. Load them in the car to go around the block or to the drive-thru. Mimic the real travel experience as much as possible to reduce surprises later.
- Talk to your veterinarian about calming treats that are safe for your pet. Test them beforehand to verify the correct dosage and to make sure your pet will actually eat them.
- Socialize your pet. Take them to parks and have them interact with other animals. Even if you are able to travel easily with them, it won’t matter much if you can’t take them anywhere once you reach your destination.
- Board your pet. If nothing works and you can’t envision a way to travel with your pet, you can take them to a professional boarding business or have them stay with a friend. This experience will be much better for them than a traumatizing one that may affect how they view any type of travel in the future.
Have a question about pet health? Want to become the best possible pet parent? Find helpful tips, reminders, and insight to giving your furry friend the best possible care with For Pet’s Sake! Learn more at drdevonsmith.com.
