Traveling with your pets can be an experience that you never forget. However, it can be disastrous for both you and your precious pooch if you don’t plan accordingly. Before hopping on a plane and traveling anywhere with your dog in tow, you need to make sure you make the proper preparations.
Beforehand
-Get your pet a checkup. Some pets travel well while others aren’t in good enough medical condition to do so. This is why you need to take your dog to the vet to get a checkup and make sure he is able to travel with you safely.
-Pick the right accommodations. Not everywhere you may want to stay at will be pet friendly. Before traveling, make sure the hotel you plan on staying at will be welcoming to your pets. If you plan on staying with your friends or family members, don’t just assume that they will allow your dog. Make sure that they will be comfortable housing the both of you during your travels.
-Pack them their own “doggie bag”. Your pet will need their own items when you travel and you should set aside a bag just for them. Besides food, make sure you pack essentials like a collapsible water bowl that you can easily transport, a few of their favorite toys to keep them entertained and doggie clean up bags to dispose of their waste easily.
During Your Flight
-Know where your pet can sit. Your pet may be able to sit with you in the cabin area if they are small. Make sure that their carrier meets the airline’s regulations beforehand. Larger dogs will need to be checked as cargo. Airlines will require that the carrier you choose is large enough so that your dog can easily more around in it.
-Prepare them for the flight. No matter where your dog sits, they may be stuck in their crate for several hours. Because of this, make sure they are fed and given water before you get to the airport. Also, make sure you give them a potty break so that they aren’t uncomfortable during their flight.
-Include proper identification. Pets rarely get lost during a flight, but it can happen. This is why it’s important to make sure that you include pertinent information on the pet’s carrier as well as on their collar. Include your phone number and your address.
At Your Destination
-Give your pet his on spot. Just like people, dogs can start to feel homesick. This is why it’s a good idea to make your pooch their own spot in the room that they are staying at. Use a blanket from home and lay it on the floor as well as their toys and encourage them to lay down there. This will give them an area to enjoy where they will be surrounded by familiar items.
-Make time for walks. Dogs need walks. It helps them get out their energy and will help them sleep better. While on vacation allow for plenty of time to take them out and enjoy themselves. Always put your pet on a leash when you are outside of your room as you don’t want them to run off and get lost.
-Take part in pet friendly activities. One of the best parts about bringing your pets on vacation with you is getting to share memories together. Make sure you find some pet friendly activities to enjoy with them. It could be as simple as visiting a park or taking them to a lake. Whatever you do though, remember to check beforehand to make sure that pets are welcomed.
