Quick Tips On Traveling With Your Faithful Companion
Traveling with your dog can be a rewarding and memorable experience. However, it requires careful planning and preparation to make sure that both you and your furry companion are safe and happy throughout your journeys. Whether you’re heading out on the open road or taking to the skies, here are a few things to keep in mind when traveling with Tank.
Stay organized.
First things first: keep yourself organized. Mobile Dog Gear offers an extensive line of dog-centric travel accessories for both everyday errands as well as grand adventures. Our luggage is made for dog owners on the go in mind.
Reduce stress.
Your dog picks up on how you feel, especially your stress levels. If you’re stressing out at work thinking about all you have to do upon return from your trip, look for ways to check your stress at the door. This might mean you go for a 15-minute drive before you come in, or you and your pet go for a walk after a tumultuous day.
Look for a walkable vacation spot.
Speaking of walking, your pet loves to go on walks. The fact that you’re on vacation won’t change that. Look for a location in a highly walkable area. Ideally, this will have a walk score of 70 or higher which means that most or all of your outings can include your furry friend.
Map out a pet-friendly trip.
In addition to finding the perfect getaway spot, research and plan a trip that accommodates your pet. This might be flights, restaurants, or attractions that allow animals. You also want to consider the climate, local regulations, and the availability of veterinary services.
Prepare your pet.
If your dog is already accustomed to traveling, great. If not, it’s time to get them in the mood. You can begin with short car rides or crate training for air travel. Gradually increase the duration and distance to help your pet get more comfortable with traveling. Schedule a visit to your veterinarian to ensure that your dog is up-to-date on vaccines and to obtain any necessary health certificates or required vaccines. The American Veterinary Medical Association explains that you’ll need a Certificate Of Veterinary Inspection and, in some cases, an acclamation certificate.
Take safety precautions.
Use a sturdy crate or carrier to ensure that your dog is properly secured while traveling. If you’re in your vehicle, make sure the dog is fastened into a seatbelt harness. These simple steps can help prevent accidents and keep your dog safe in case of sudden stops or unexpected turbulence. You also want to pack an extra leash in case one is lost in transit. And, importantly, contact your veterinarian to ensure your dog's chip is up to date or to have one implanted well ahead of your trip.
Pack the essentials.
Pack a pet travel kit that includes essentials, such as food, water, bowls, leashes, medications, waste bags, grooming supplies, and a first-aid kit. It can also help to bring familiar bedding and toys so that your dog has a comfort item. You also need to make sure that you have a copy of their ID tags and photos of your dog in case they run off – remember, it’s not unheard of for animals to go missing on vacation.
While this is not the ultimate dog travel checklist, the above advice, from packing the essentials, finding a walkable vacation spot, and eliminating stress in the days before your trip, can all hope you have a more pleasurable vacation and return home with your entire family.
