Most people wouldn’t think of leaving their pets behind when they go on vacation. Pets are members of the family, and just like other family members, they deserve to come along on the trip. But traveling with your pet can be a lot more complicated than it seems.
Here are some tips to make the process as easy as possible for both you and your furry friend.
Pet Transport companies like Your Choice Pet Transport can bring your pet to your destination with door to door ground transport service. If you are traveling with your pet without a professional service, consider the following tips.
Get Your Pet Used To Riding In A Car
Start With Short Drives Around The Block
Start by taking short rides around the block with your pet. Make sure they’re comfortable in their crate or seatbelt before you begin driving. This will help them learn that there’s nothing to fear when they’re in the car. When you get home, give them lots of praise and rewards so they associate the car ride with something positive. As your pet gets more comfortable, gradually increase the distance of each drive until they’re ready for longer trips.
Create A Relaxing Environment For Your Pet
It can also help make them feel more at ease if you create a relaxing environment for them in the backseat or cargo area of your vehicle. Place soft blankets or pillows down for them to lay on and add toys or treats to keep them busy during the ride. It might also help if you turn on some soothing music or play an audiobook so they won’t be distracted by outside noises like sirens and horns from other cars.
Make Frequent Stops Along The Way
No matter how long your journey is, it’s important to make frequent stops along the way so that your pet can stretch their legs and relieve themselves if needed. If possible, try to plan these stops ahead of time so that you know where you can stop safely without disrupting traffic flow or putting yourself and your pet at risk.
Also, it helps if these stops involve plenty of walking and sniffing opportunities; this helps keep your pet stimulated while avoiding any incidents that could put an end to your trip prematurely!
Find Out If Your Pet Is Allowed On A Plane
What Are The Rules?
The rules regarding pets on planes vary from airline to airline, so it’s important to check with your carrier ahead of time. Generally speaking, most airlines allow cats and dogs in-cabin as carry-on items (as long as they meet certain size requirements). Some airlines also allow birds, fish, rodents, rabbits and other small animals in the cabin or cargo hold.
It’s best to contact the airline directly for more information about their specific policies. In addition to size requirements, airlines will also have restrictions on how many pets they allow per flight. Additionally, some breeds may not be allowed due to safety concerns—for example, short-nosed dogs such as pugs and bulldogs often have difficulty breathing at high altitudes. Be sure to check with the airline about breed-specific policies before booking your flight.
Special Requirements
If you have any special requirements for travelling with your pet—such as a medical condition or physical disability—it is best to talk directly with the airline prior to booking your tickets. Many airlines offer accommodations for passengers with disabilities; however, some may require additional paperwork or documentation before they can approve special requests related to bringing a pet onboard a plane.
Book A Hotel That Allows Pets
Pet Amenities
A true pet-friendly hotel should offer more than just the basics when it comes to accommodating your pet. Look for features like outdoor areas where your pet can take a break, food bowls, treats and toys in the room, doggy bags for clean up after walks and even special menus for pampered pooches. Some hotels offer add-on packages specifically designed with pets in mind which might include doggie massages, special meals, daily walks and more!
Extended Stay Options
When traveling with your pet, you’ll want to choose a hotel that offers extended stay options so you don’t have to worry about checking out every few days or finding another place to stay. Extended stays generally require additional deposits but come with peace of mind knowing that both you and your furry friend will be comfortable throughout your entire trip.
Nearby Pet Facilities
When booking your stay at a pet-friendly hotel, always check the surrounding area for other nearby facilities such as dog parks or groomers that will help make your trip even better. This is especially important if you’re staying at an unfamiliar location or looking for fun activities to keep both yourself and your pup entertained during your travels.
Pack Your Pet’s Belongings
Essentials
When traveling with your pet, there are certain items that you just can’t forget. First and foremost, bring sufficient pet food for your entire trip—you don’t want to run out halfway through! Also make sure to pack plenty of treats, toys, and other forms of entertainment.
This is especially important if you will be staying in a hotel room or other type of rental accommodation; having something to help keep your pet occupied while you’re out exploring will help prevent any boredom-induced mischief. Lastly, don’t forget to bring along all the necessary medical documents. These may include things like vaccination records and health certificates (depending on where you’re travelling).
Comfort Items
If your pet is used to sleeping in his own bed at home, then bringing it along on the trip is a must! It will provide both familiarity and comfort for him in an unfamiliar place. Additionally, consider bringing along an old t-shirt or blanket that smells like home—it can help reduce stress levels if pets become anxious or scared from being away from their normal environment.
Also be sure to pack any special medications your pet might require during the trip. If possible, try to stick as closely as possible to their normal routine; this will help keep them calm and relaxed throughout the journey.
Travel Gear
As far as travel gear goes, you’ll need items such as a leash or carrier depending on how big your pet is and how much he likes being held or walked around in public places. If you plan on flying with your pet (or if they don’t fit under the seat in front of you), then purchasing an appropriate airline-approved carrier is essential. If you want you can pick up a pet travel kit which will contain everything needed for a successful trip with your pet. Lastly, make sure you have enough waste bags so that when nature calls, clean up doesn’t become an ordeal!
Get Your Pet Vaccinated And Microchipped
Vaccines To Comply With Medical Travel Requirements
Vaccines are administered to protect pets from potentially harmful diseases. These vaccines are injected into the body, and are intended to build immunity against specific viruses or bacteria that could cause an infection. Core vaccines are generally recommended for all pets, such as canine distemper, parvovirus and feline distemper.
Depending on the type of pet you have, there may be other vaccines available to provide additional protection against specific illnesses or parasites. It’s important to check with your veterinarian regarding what types of vaccines they recommend for your particular pet in order to ensure their safety during travels and beyond.
The Benefits Of Microchipping Your Pet
Microchipping is also an important measure pet owners should consider taking before having your pet travel as it can help reunite them with you if they ever get lost or separated from you during travel. A microchip is about the size of a grain of rice and is inserted under the skin between the shoulder blades on your pet—it’s an entirely painless procedure that takes only a few minutes!
Once implanted, it will stay there for life (unless surgically removed). This tiny chip does not contain any medical information about your pet but instead contains a unique identification number which can be used to find out who owns the animal if he/she is ever found without their collar tag or registration papers.
Final Thoughts About Preparing To Travel During The Holidays With Your Pet
When traveling with your pet, it’s important to remember to bring all of their essentials along with you. This includes things like food, water, toys, and leashes/carriers depending on the type of pet you have. Make sure you pet is comfortable and make a list so you don’t forget any of their things at home. By following these tips, you can help ensure a smooth and stress-free trip for both you and your furry friend!
Book your pet transport now. Call 229-560-8376 or Contact Us Now
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Do emotional support animals bypass pet policies?
A: In some cases, yes. Since emotional support animals do not fall under the definition of a “pet”, they are not subject to the same pet policies (such as restrictions on size, breed, or weight) that regular pets are. This means that emotional support animals can be used in places where pets are typically not allowed, such as on airplanes or in restaurants. Definitions and requirements may vary from one company to another. Call ahead so you aren’t disappointed or surprised when it’s time to travel.
Q: Do you need pet insurance for service animals?
A: No, you do not need pet insurance for service animals. Service animals are covered by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), which means that businesses and other organizations must allow them access to all public areas and cannot charge a fee for their presence. The ADA also requires that service animals be allowed to accompany their owners in any area where the public is allowed to go, including restaurants, stores, and transportation.
Q: Would a direct flight be better for transporting pets?
Some things to consider include: the size of your pet, the distance of the flight, and whether or not your pet is comfortable in a carrier. For very small pets, a direct flight may be preferable, as there will be less chance for them to become stressed or lost in transit. For larger pets, however, a connecting flight may be more comfortable – especially if your pet is used to spending time in a carrier. You can ask a Vet what the best way to keep your pet safe is.