5 Tips For Taking Your Pet On A Summer Vacation
Leaving their animal buddies behind on a trip can dishearten many pet owners. But did you know that approximately 60% of travellers worldwide take their pets along? Pet travel is common, and summer offers the best opportunities to travel with your favourite animal. The most important thing is to ensure they’re well-catered for during the trip. Here are five tips for taking your pet on a summer vacation.
1. Make sure your pet is healthy enough to travel
You’ll likely want to get a green light from your doctor if you’re heading to a different country for your summer vacation. Why not do the same for your pet? It’s important to get a vet’s approval to ensure your pet has no pending vaccinations, tests, or treatments. They can also determine if your pet is in perfect physical condition to travel, especially over a long distance. While you’re at the vet, consider getting an electronic pet microchip. This way, you won’t struggle to find your furry friend if they get lost or stolen. Also, ask your veterinarian for a health certificate.
2. Take a test trip
Going for a test trip first makes sense if you’ve never travelled with your pet. For example, you can take shorter drives to see how your pet reacts. The last thing you want is to embark on a long trip only to realise that your pet gets carsick or super anxious. A test trip will help you identify pet behavioural issues you must work on before the actual trip.
Don’t forget to pack pet essentials
Pet food, water, dishes, bedding, crate, leashes, medication, pet toys, and a pet first-aid kit are some essentials you should consider packing before hitting the road. Of course, other important things to add will depend on your pet type. For example, if you’re travelling with a dog, it’s good to pack some dog treats. Also, keeping your pet’s supplies in a separate, easy-to-access bag is best. A copy of your pet’s medical records will also be useful in case of any medical emergency during the trip.
Add pet-friendly activities to your itinerary
When planning your itinerary, make room for activities your pet can enjoy. For example, if you want to visit parks or hiking, look for pet-friendly options. You can find hiking trails, parks, and beaches where your animal companion can stretch their legs and have fun. Again, what activities to add will depend on your furry friend. It’s also worth noting that some activities may have specific regulations regarding pets, like leash requirements or restricted areas. You should stick to these regulations to ensure their safety and others’ enjoyment.
Ensure proper transportation
The test trip should give you an idea of the best transportation option for your pet. For example, a train or road trip may be better if your best does not adjust well on planes. But don’t end there; ensure a proper and safe transportation experience. If you’re driving, for example, secure your pet in a crate or use a pet safety harness to prevent them from roaming freely inside the vehicle. Also, it’s best not to leave your pet unattended, especially in a parked car, as temperatures can rise quickly, causing heatstroke.
