While it’s not recommended that you travel abroad with your pets – no matter how adorable you think the snaps would be – there may come a time when there’s no other option. Most airlines now allow pets to travel, so whether you need to take a domestic flight to your new home or have a therapy pet you’d like to take with you on vacation, here are a few tips to make traveling with your pet a little easier for everyone.
Inform the vets
Before jetting off, you should first make sure your pet is healthy and prepared for travel. Letting the vets know about your plans to travel will give them the chance to double-check whether your furry friend has all their vaccines and refill any prescriptions. Depending on how long the flight is, your vet may also recommend a sedative and likely side effects.
Tips for traveling in the car
If you’re heading to the airport, it’s much easier to travel there in your own car rather than trying to take your pet on public transport. You can check the Sea Tac Airport parking cost online and book a space in advance to make the day of travel that little less stressful.
Alternatively, if you’re simply going on a road trip, it’s important to recognize that some pets are unbothered by traveling in the car, while others will struggle. To keep them as comfortable as possible on both long and short car journeys, make sure to carry plenty of water and food with you. You should also take regular toilet breaks so that your pet can get some fresh air and exercise.
It’s vital you travel during the coolest part of the day, so to avoid your pet overheating in the car. You should also ensure the car is proper ventilated throughout the journey.
Tip for traveling by plane
Traveling on a plane can be very stressful – for both humans and pets. Even walking through the airport may leave your pet feeling overwhelmed, so it’s important to try to make them as comfortable and calm as possible throughout the whole process.
To help, make sure you choose the most direct flight available so that you’re up in the air the least amount of time. It’s also vital you check the legal requirements for traveling with your pet before you travel so that you have all documentation and information you need.
Buying gelled water will help keep your pet hydrated during the flight and should be easy to pack into your carry bag. To make sure of your booking before you travel, call the airline the day before to remind them you plan to travel with a pet.
It’s also worth researching pet-friendly hotels and restaurants before you arrive at your destination. Traveling with your favorite pet can be extremely exciting for both of you, but the journey will undoubtedly be scary and overwhelming. Make sure to be as prepared as you can before traveling, and give them plenty of treats along the way to make them feel better!
This post contains affiliate links and I may receive a commission, at no additional cost to you, should you purchase through one of my links. Please see my disclosure for more information.
