Bringing Your Pet With You On Vacation?
Regardless of the way you travel with your pet (by air or by car), there are a few things to keep in mind to make travel safe and stress-free for all involved, especially your pet!
Ensure Your Pet Can Be Identified
In case they get lost, microchipping is the best way together with 3 tags attached to the harness or collar: one tag with their name and a contact phone number in case someone finds them; the rabies tag; and the licensing tag with the name of the city you live in. These tags can all be placed in a soft little pouch attached to the harness or collar if you or your pet do not like the jingle of the tags.
Take All The Necessary Health Records With You
Vaccination records, health certificates, etc.
If Your Pet Is On A Special Prescription Diet
Make certain you obtain a prescription for that food from your veterinarian if you travel to the United States. You cannot take any opened bags of pet food across the border.
If Your Pet Is On Long-term Medication
Ensure you have enough for the whole time you are away plus some extra, just in case.
Are You Travelling To a Warm Part Of The World?
Don’t forget the flea and tick medication for your pet!
The Fun Part: Make Sure You Pack Your Pets Favourite Toy!
They will never forgive you if you don’t!
Travelling By Car?
Dogs should wear a harness and a seatbelt and cats should travel in a carrier. Dogs can travel in an appropriately sized kennel as well, just ensure the kennel is safely secured so it does not move. It is a good idea to have your kitty wear a harness and a leash even when they travel in a carrier, just in case they feel like bolting when you open up the carrier door. You want to be able to catch them should this happen. Pack enough food and water for the trip. Don’t forget a litterbox for the cat. You can place it in a large plastic storage box so that the litter does not spill everywhere.
Dealing With Travel Anxiety
Some pets could experience travel anxiety. It is best to find out if this is the case before you go on a long trip. There are lots of supplements you can use for this purpose and each pet is different. Talk to your veterinarian about the use of essential oils, natural supplements, or specific anti-anxiety medication for your pet. Make it stress-free and fun, your pet will thank you for it!
