What's better than going on vacation? Bringing your cute pet along for fun, of course! But planning a trip means you have dozens of details to worry about. If you add a pet to your tour, these details will expand.
Whether you are traveling for pleasure or moving to a new place, leaving your dog, cat or a small animal behind does not make sense. So before you make travel plans with your pet, know that having an animal at your side can make things more complicated.
Here are some amazing tips to show you how to keep your cute pet calm and comfortable, no matter what distance or mode you travel. With these tips, you and your cutie will be able to enjoy the entire journey, from planning to packing and boarding to feeding;
If you will be staying at a hotel while traveling with your pet, cover all your basics in advance. A pet-friendly hotel is more than just one that allows pets; it welcomes them.
Many pet-friendly hotels provide special dog beds, turndown services, dog spa services, and doggie daycare. Several hotels charge a non-refundable pet deposit on arrival, then a daily pet fee. The bottom line, before your booking, does proper research about pet-friendly hotels.
There are huge numbers of options on the market when it comes to pet carriers. It comes in multiple colors and can be personalized with patches. Requirements vary by airline and the size of the plane, so make sure you know what those needs are before you reach the airport.
The maximum carry-on kennel dimensions are determined by flight, to determine the appropriate size, and contact reservations.
If you are planning to travel by flight; keep in mind that the rule of every airline is different when it comes to traveling with a pet. Review all requirements and restrictions before flying with a pet on the plane and at the terminal, too. Book a direct flight to avoid stopovers.
You will also need to make other arrangements for in-cabin pet travel versus carpet travel. Smaller or more pocket pets like birds, reptiles, and hamsters are allowed in the cabin.
But larger animals like dogs and cats are kept in a back area. Airline companies provide all kinds of policies on pets and how to make in-cabin or cargo arrangements on their web pages, check them in advance.
Even if you don't plan to fly, you will still need to transport your pet via any other mode of transportation. For cabs or taxis, talk to the cab companies and ask about their pet policies when you call for a ride or before you get into the car.
If you are taking a rental vehicle, talk directly to the rental company to know their pet policy before the trip.
For buses and trains, you will not have to worry a lot. Because many buses and trains allow small cats and dogs on certain routes; just plan properly and ask ahead of time before you board. The same things apply to boats. Take time to call them or go through the website to know their pet travel policy.
Emergencies can be happy anywhere. But your advanced planning will help you to make these emergencies less stressful. Before your trip, prepare a list of veterinary hospitals in the areas where you are planning to stay.
Add some basic needs to your bag like water and bowls, a leash, treats, toys, a first aid kit, grooming supplies, and a few medications.
Do never leave your pet alone inside the vehicle.
Airlines limit the number of pets in the cabin, so do not wait until the last minute to book.
Make sure your pet's identification tag and microchip details are up-to-date.
Take pictures of your pet and keep them in your wallet and mobile phone.
In case, you do not have your car or a rental, plan for how you would transport your pet to the veterinarian. Review what your options are for taxis or public transport.
In the worst situation, if your pet gets lost, take immediate action. Ask people around you to help you search; call the local animal shelters and humane societies.
The major thing to remember is that while you want to have a great time with your pet at your selected vacation spot, you are solely responsible for its health and well-being.
If your pet is particularly nervous, susceptible to changes in the temperature, or could use a couple of rounds of obedience training, or you are not sure about being able to care for your pet while on holiday, it is a better option to leave it at home with a trusted sitter.