You have a trip planned at the last minute.
The hotel is booked, the tickets are bought, but now you realise that there’s no one to babysit your pets this time while you’re away.
Before you call in a favour, why not take your fur babies with you on your road trip?
However, before you pack your pets for that long vacation here are a few things to take note of.
First, your vehicle should ideally be able to accommodate not just your kids, your bags but also your pet’s things.
Remember, you won’t just be bringing along one small animal with you.
You’ll be bringing along their food, their litter box (if any) and their carrier or cage.
So only travel with pet if you can accommodate them.
Second, your pet should already be used to or at least familiar with long-distance travel.
Some pets do not enjoy long hours in a car. The most they can stand is one hour, or a less.
Moreover, when pets are stressed, they may have an accident in the car which only ends in a messy clean-up for you.
Putting your cat in a carrier or cage for long periods of time is also not recommended as it can cause them more stress.
Third, your hotel, motel, chalet, resort etc, should allow pets in, or at least have a pet room or pet accommodations.
Leaving your pet in the car overnight can be dangerous.
Yes, your pet will be lonely and scared, but they can also suffocate, overheat, or stress themselves out.
Fourth, the number of pets you have.
If you have more than one pet, then it may not be possible to take all of them. Especially if they’re large dogs.
Be practical about your ability to manage and travel with multiple animals even if they’re well-behaved.
Fifth, your mode of transportation.
The best vehicle to travel with your pet is ideally a car, which means road trips.
There’s more to travelling pets than you realise.
But if you think you’ve got all these points covered, then you can start planning for your family trip with your pets.
6 Things to Do Before taking Your Pets on a Trip
Schedule a Vet Visit
Before you even think about bringing your pets with you on a family trip make sure to give them a thorough health check.
Make sure your fur babies are up-to-date on vaccinations, and obtain necessary documentation for travel, such as health certificates.
This may be important when you register at a pet-friendly hotel.
If your cat has any medicine they need to take, be sure to follow a regular schedule as well.
Prepare for the Journey
Depending on your pet’s experience, they may have options.
One, they can either roam around in the car without disturbing the driver.
Or two, they might be more comfortable in the safe confines of a carrier (just be sure to leave the carrier door open).
But for air travel, a carrier or cage is compulsory to ensure your pet’s safety and the comfort of other passengers.
Make sure it is well-ventilated and comfortable.
Don’t forget to also pack the essentials.
Bring your pet’s food, water, medications, bedding, toys, and any other items they need.
Familiar items can help them feel more comfortable in a new environment.
Take Short Practice Trips
If your pet isn’t accustomed to traveling, take them on short trips to help them get used to the motion and being in the carrier.
If you can spare some time before the trip, make sure to bring your pets along with you.
This can be short grocery shopping; errand runs or even just a casual drive-around.
They need to get used to being a car (if you’re travelling by car for the trip).
Beside it will also give you plenty practice yourself to take note of their quirks and warning signs.
This is especially helpful in case they need to relieve themselves or are stressed.
Just remember to keep them secure so they don’t interfere with your driving.
Consider Your Pet’s Limitations
Take into account your pet’s age, health, and energy level when planning activities.
Avoid strenuous hikes or long walks if your pet isn’t up for it.
When you’re on the road, plan for regular breaks.
Stop every few hours at an R&R to give your pet a chance to stretch their legs, go to the bathroom, and have some water.
Look for pet-friendly rest areas or parks along your route.
Practice Good Pet Etiquette
Clean up after your pet: Always carry waste bags and promptly clean up any messes your pet makes.
Dispose of waste properly in designated areas. In the same vein, be mindful of others.
Not everyone is comfortable around pets, so be respectful of others’ space.
Keep your pet on a leash in public areas, unless it’s an off-leash designated area.
Prepare for Emergencies
Sometimes your pet may catch something on their way to the holiday destination.
A change of weather doesn’t always suit certain animals.
So, research nearby veterinary clinics or hospitals at your destination, just in case.
Take Your Fur Babies on a Safe Joyride
Travelling with pets can be a fun experience, but you have to be patient and flexible.
For the pet parents out there, we all know that our little fur babies are as much a part of the family as our kids.
So, it’s nice when we get to experience a family trip with them.
But it’s also important to remember that they are still animals with their own special needs and behaviours.
Travelling to another place can be confusing, scary and even disorienting.
So be sure to always comfort your pet when they need it.
Lastly, ensure they have all they need to have an amazing fun-filled adventure with the whole family!
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