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People are traveling with their pets more than ever these days, even taking vacations that are specifically pet-friendly. They are becoming a closer part of the family and we love that!
We recently went on a two-week drive across the country consisting only of places that allowed our pups to join us — and it was an amazing experience!
Whether you are planning a pet-friendly trip or visiting family for the upcoming holidays, there are some extra steps you should take to make sure your furry friend is safe and comfortable, from the moment you leave until the moment you get back home.
1 | PLAN EXTRA TIME IN YOUR TRAVELS
Planned or unplanned, you will need to make some pit stops during your travels.
When we travel home to visit family, roughly an 8.5-hour drive, we know it will take about an hour longer to get there with our dogs. It is a drive we know very well and have done for years, but that doesn’t mean we can make our dogs potty any faster or any less.
Some things to think about that can easily add time to your drive as well: Does your pet get car sick? Did you feed them a big meal right before you left? Are you driving alone? Do you have a puppy with a small bladder?
We know it can be frustrating when you have to pull over sooner than you wanted to or your stops take way longer than they should. However, keep in mind that your pet doesn’t understand what is going on and may be nervous. Be patient with them and plan additional time from the get go.
2 | MAKE A SUPPLY LIST
Before you leave, make a list of everything your dog will need while you’re away. In addition to food, think of items like bowls, treats, medications and comfort bedding or toys.
Though you will likely have access to a pet store nearby, it’s always a good idea to pack a little more food than needed. This is really important to remember for those pets with special diets that have to be bought at a specific place or through the vet.
Obviously, if your pet takes daily or weekly medications remember to pack those and any supplies, such as a pill cutter, pill pockets, syringes, etc. Don’t forget to bring any monthly prevention, too!
When it comes to toys and bedding, don’t worry about bringing everything. Grab one or two of their favorite toys and a bone for them to chew on. A comfy blanket that they already love to snuggle up in will be just the perfect amount of comfort from home.
Once you’ve gathered all of your pet’s belongings, pack it together in the same bag for easy access! Since we travel so much with our dogs, we also like to keep a small bin in our car that has items like a towel, pet-safe wipes, doggie bags and a first aid kit.
SHOP FOR YOUR TRIP
3 | VACCINATIONS, PREVENTION AND IDENTIFICATION
It’s important that your pet is up-to-date on their vaccinations, at the very least their rabies vaccination. This vaccine is required by law in most states and you could be asked to show proof if you take your dog into any public space.
Other vaccines that you should consider for your dog are bordetella, DHPP, canine influenza, lepto and lyme. Your vet will be able to go over all of your options and discuss the best care plan for your pet.
Think you may need to board your dog at anytime in your travels? Check ahead with kennels and see what vaccines they require your pet to have. It would be good practice to carry a copy of you pet’s records with you on any trip you take for this reason or for emergencies.
Using prevention against heartworms, fleas and ticks is key to keeping your pet healthy. If this is not something you routinely do, you should at least consider it when traveling to areas outside your home. Again, your vet can suggest the best products to fit into your budget and pet’s lifestyle.
Lastly, in the event one of your pets becomes lost, make sure they can find their way back to you. Having current information on their tags is a great first step, but you should also consider having them microchipped.
Microchips are implanted right under the skin between your pet’s shoulder blades and is the size of a grain of rice. This allows you to save your contact information into the microchip company’s database, so if your pet is ever found and scanned, they can be easily reunited with you. Vets, shelters and animal control all have the capability to scan for these.
4 | CONSULT YOUR VET WHEN NEEDED
We got pretty lucky that our dogs love car rides! They can’t wait to jump in and stick their heads out the window.
Unfortunately, some pets are the complete opposite. They’ll do whatever they can to not get in. Some will run away and hide. Some will get sick or use the restroom a short while into the drive.
Traveling or change is really hard for some dogs and that’s okay. Don’t be afraid to consult with your veterinarian to find a good solution. They can give you personalized tips or even prescribe anti-nausea or anti-anxiety medication to help ease your dog’s discomfort.
Always use medication as prescribed and only for the pet it is prescribed for.
SHOP FOR YOUR TRIP
5 | GIVE YOUR DOG A COMFORTABLE SPACE
In the car, give your pup enough space to lay down and get comfortable. Add in their favorite toy and a cushy blanket for a less stressful ride.
Once you make it to your destination, whether it’s in a hotel or someone’s home, create a spot for your pet. Giving them a place when they can go to relax is important and can make the transition for them a little easier.
6 | DO YOUR RESEARCH
Do your research ahead of time and find out what places are pet-friendly and which are not. Websites like Bring Fido are a great resource to use, but it is still smart to check into each place individually.
Before booking accommodations and restaurants or planning activities, call to make sure your furry friend is allowed to join and ask about any special restrictions. Is there an additional fee for pets? Are pets only allowed on certain trails? Can pets only sit outside the resturant? These are all things that you’ll want to know beforehand that could impact your trip.
Lastly, find out where the nearest emergency vet is located. Although this isn’t something we want to think about, it is best to be prepared so you can act quickly. Make sure to note any special hours, if not 24 hours, as well as any monetary requirements (credit card only, a deposit up-front, etc.).
SHOP FOR YOUR TRIP
Vacations are a fun time for you and your family. Make sure you do your part to keep even the furriest members of your family happy and safe. Happy travels friends!
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