Savvy Pet Traveler: The Ultimate To-Do List for Traveling with Your Pet
Wrapping up the summer months with a family vacation is something we all aspire to. And, adding a furry pal to the mix makes it even better, right?!?
Traveling with your pet has many perks. First, it is an opportunity to bond with your pet, and it is a way to show off your adorbs buddy to the rest of the pet-appreciating world. And don’t forget about all of those cute Instagram pics!
Yet, taking to the road with a pet has a lot of extra considerations. To take the guesswork out of traveling with your pet, your team at The Bluffs Pet Clinic is here to help you make your list of must-haves and to set you off an amazing journey for you and your pet.
Ready, Set, Go to the Vet!
Before hitting the wide open skies, your pet will first need to be assessed for travel readiness. Making sure your pet is up to date on both vaccinations and parasite prevention is important, as they will be exposed to new and common illnesses and parasites while traveling.
In some cases, you will need a pet travel certificate in order to cross state and international lines, or traveling by plane. Please call us for more information.
All the Things
Next up, is what to pack. We suggest some of the following essentials for perfect pet travel.
- Leash and collar with current tags
- Carrier or crate
- Your pet’s medical records
- Current medications
- Regular food and treats
- Collapsible water bowl for travel
- Water for the journey
- Bed
- Extra towels and blankets
- Toys
- Tie-outs, if you are at a park or camping
- Booties, if you plan to hike
- Pet First Aid Kit
- Seasonal clothing
- Pet sunscreen
- Grooming supplies, such as toothpaste and toothbrush, brush or comb, nail trimmer, etc.
The list can continue. Pack whatever makes your pet feel safe and comfortable, like a home away from home while you are enjoying your vacay together.
Tips for Traveling with Your Pet
Making your trip with your pet safe and enjoyable requires following a few simple precautions. The team at The Bluffs give you these handy tips for great pet travel.
- Plan to stop often. This includes potty breaks and time for stretching and exercise.
- If you are flying, follow all of the rules outlined by your specific airline, including stipulations on crossing international boundaries.
- Buckle up! Attach your pet’s carrier or crate to a seat belt. If you opt for a seat belt harness, make sure your pet is secured.
- Make reservations at pet-friendly hotels, bed and breakfasts, campgrounds, etc.
- Have a backup plan for a pet daycare or kennel if you need to do human-only activities.
- Create a list of all local veterinary clinics, kennels, and animal hospitals, should you need them.
- Look for pet welcoming restaurants, rental cars, etc. well in advance, so you have plenty of options for your fur friend.
- Make time for walks and socialization, with special outings just for your pet.
- Keep your pet’s normal routine as close to the same as possible to reduce stress.
- Make sure your pet has plenty of water with you wherever you go.
Happy Tails!
If we can answer any questions about traveling with your pet, please do not hesitate to call. We’re here to make your pet’s trip a safe and memorable one! Have a wonderful time.