There's nothing like going on a vacation and forgetting all the stress and tension of daily life and work. It's a time to let down your hair and rejuvenate. But if you are taking the family pet or a service animal on a much-deserved vacation, you will need to do some preparations beforehand to ensure your four-legged family member is comfortable, safe and secure during your trip.
Don't bring along your pet or service animal without considering these 7 must-know tips! Trust us, Mr. Wiggles will thank you.
1. Animal Identification
You should never think of traveling within the country or abroad without the proper identification tag for your animal. This should be attached to your his collar and have your mobile number clearly printed on it. The tag should be legible. If you get separated from him during the trip, the tag will help you reunite with your furry friend.
2. Up-to-Date Vaccinations
Before embarking on your trip, visit your vet and ensure you get all the vaccinations updated and check your animal for any impending illnesses or ailments. Keep a record of the vaccinations in your travel bag so that everything is covered, especially if you are traveling over the border.
3. Animal's Photograph
When you travel with your pet or service animal, there are chances of him getting lost or separated from you. It is best to carry a recent photograph of him to ensure you can easily conduct a search for him if he gets lost or separated from you.
4. Crate Preparation
If your animal is flying and is too big to travel as a carry-on passenger, you may have to crate her. Prepare the crate for the flight and label it as "Live Animal" on the top and the sides. Make sure the letters are at least one inch in size. Draw a broad arrow marking the upright position. On top the crate, write the name of the animal, your name and personal details and your destination. When you place your pet or service animal in the crate, secure the door, but do not padlock it. In case of an emergency, it will be easy for the airline staff to let her out. Also, make sure you line the crate sufficiently with towels to absorb accidents.
5. Flying with Your Animal
As far in advance as possible, always book either early morning or late night flights. This will ensure your four-legged friend is not affected too much by extreme temperatures. Furthermore, it is best to book your travel during non-peak flight timings so that there are fewer passengers flying, providing more cabin room to accommodate your animal if she is a carry-on flyer.
6. Driving with Your Animal
Even a road trip can turn into a nightmare if you are not adequately prepared. Make sure you stop frequently to let your animal have toilet breaks and quench his thirst. Also, allow him to walk and sniff, so that the long drive does not become monotonous and stressful for him. Carry lots of packed food for your animal to feed him on the way or when you take a food break.
7. Pet-Friendly Hotels
Whether you are traveling in the country or to foreign shores there are sufficient pet-friendly hotels. Make sure you do your due diligence in advance and book rooms for you, your family and your pet or service animal in such a hotel.
Keep these tips in mind when traveling with your pet or service animal and it should be smooth sailing for you and your four-legged family member!
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Image Credits:
Traveling With Your Pet by MayanExplore
Veterinarian by Army Medicine
Live Animals by Krystal Cunningham
Cat in the Car by Trey Wheeler
