For some a trip is no fun, if four-legged members of the family cannot come. But on the other hand side, travelling could get stressful both for you and your pet. You would need a thorough preparation as you can ensure a safe and comfortable trip for everyone. If you are planning a road trip, travelling with pets involve more than just loading of animals in the back seat and going for a ride. It’s more than that. You have to often prepare for a smooth ride. Here are a few tips on how to prepare before you take off with one of your pets:-
1. Keep your pet safe and secure in a well-ventilated crate or carrier. There are a wide variety of wire meshes, hard plastic and soft sided carriers available in the market. No matter what you choose, it should be big enough for your pet to stand, sit or lie down. It is a very good way to get your pet used to the carrier in the comfort of your house before you take her out on a trip with you.
2. Gear up your pet for a long trip by taking, her on a short trip or a short drive. This would be a test. See if she gets uncomfortable, or the length of time she can spend in your car. Every time you get her in the car, make sure to secure the crate always, so that it wouldn’t shift in the event of a quick stop.
3. Your pet’s travel –feeding schedule of your pet should begin at least 3 to 4 hours prior to the trip. Even if it is a long drive, do not feed it in a furry or in a moving vehicle.
4. Do not leave your pet alone in a parked vehicle. On a hot day, even with the windows open, a car can become like a furnace and heat stroke may develop. In a cold weather, it’s the same. It can act as a refrigerator and cause the animal to freeze to death. So always carry your animal along with you. This is an essential step.
5. Make sure you have everything in your pet’s travelling kit. This includes things like travel papers, food, bowl, plastic bags, a waste scoop, leash, grooming supplies, medication, first aid kit and favorite toy or a pillow to give them a sense of familiarity.
6. Your pet should be wearing a microchip for identification purposes. They should wear a collar with a tag imprinted with the home address and a temporary tag with your cell phone, destination phone number and any other relevant contact info.
7. Don’t allow your pet to ride with her head sticking outside the window. She could be injured by flying objects. And keep him in the back seat in the crate.
8. If you are travelling across state lines, then bring rabies vaccination record. Some state crossing may require you to show it. Carry it just to be on the safe side.
9. Use bottled water for your dog or tap water in plastic jugs.
10. Frequent travelers with their pets should invest in rubberized floor liners and waterproof seat covers. They are available at product retailers.