If pets are part of your family, making vacation plans may take a little extra time. Traveling with dogs and cats can often be difficult. That is why many owners make the heartbreaking decision to leave their pets at home or with a sitter. However, the idea of a pet sitter or boarding facility does not sit well with every owner. If you don't want to leave your baby in someone else's hands, the information provided below is made for you! These five tips on how to travel with a dog or cat will make your next adventure fun and exciting for you and your four-legged friends.
Whether you choose to go by air or ground, it's vital that your dogs are properly identified with either a dog tag, a microchip, or both. If you choose to use just a tag, make sure to include your pet’s name, as well as your name, phone number, and address. Additional tags could also be added to indicate certain medical conditions such as allergies or debilitating diseases. It's also smart to bring along your pet's veterinary records when traveling with a cat or dog, just in case a visit to the vet is warranted.
Make sure that your pet is comfortable during travel with the right type of crate. While metal and fabric crates are great, plastic crates are generally safer and more versatile. If you're in a car, a fabric crate will do, but plastic is the way to go for flying. If your pets will be spending several hours in the crate, investing in a high-quality product is smart. Generally, it should be large enough for your pet to stand, sit, turn around, and lie flat. You should also help your pet get used to their crate by having them spend some time in it at home before you travel.
CBD is widely used to reduce anxiety in pets during stress-inducing situations like fireworks. A bottle of CBD for pets should always be part of your pet traveling kits, as it can help your pets reduce stress triggered by crates and long hours away from home. CBD can be particularly helpful when traveling internationally with a dog or cat. If you are considering trying CBD oil for pets, find a brand that uses naturally-derived CBD from industrial hemp. Most importantly, make sure the CBD is lab tested and third-party certified for purity and potency to ensure it is safe for your pets.
A flat tire or a delayed flight can turn a 2-day trip into a 3 or 4-day adventure. These unexpected delays or change in plans can result in your pet waiting a long time for clean water and food. Make sure that you and your pet are always prepared for any inconvenience by packing extra food and water. A couple of water bottles and a large resealable bag with pet food should be more than enough for an emergency when traveling with dogs or cats.
If you are taking your pets with you on a plane, you should always do some research to find the best airline for your type of pet. For example, some companies like Southwest Airlines allow pets as carry-on companions only, while American Airlines allows them in cargo where they are transported in some of the biggest carriers in the industry. If you cannot find an airline that meets your needs, there are dozens of companies exclusively dedicated to transporting pets like Happy Tails and Air Animal.
Different pets have different needs. If your dog likes to cuddle with a specific blanket when he sleeps, you should take that blanket in your travel kit or place it in his crate. If your cat has a favorite toy, keep it handy in case they need a distraction, or it becomes bored during long trips. Cat and dog travel accessories can contribute to your pet’s comfort should be taken into consideration when you travel. Going the extra mile with personal items like toys, blankets, or a favorite snack will only make traveling with cats and dogs a more pleasant experience for all parties involved.
