Even if the purpose of your trip is fun and relaxation, travel can still be stressful for both pets and humans alike. The good news is that a little preparation will make travelling with your dog go as smoothly as possible!
The trick is to plan ahead as much as possible.
Check rules and regulations
The last thing you want is a trip-ruining surprise along the way. So make sure you know what will be required—not only by your destination, but by each mode of travel, and each stop you’ll make on the journey. If you are flying with your dog, you’ll need to double-check the airline’s rules, as what’s considered acceptable can be different from carrier to carrier. You may have to purchase a particular type of crate, or be required to travel with your dog as cargo which could be stressful for your pet. (And for you!)
If you are driving, you want to be sure your hotels allow pets, and know if you’ll be required to pay a damage or cleaning deposit.
Depending on your destination, there may be extra vaccinations required, or there may even be a quarantine period. These are things you don’t want to learn at the airport, or upon your arrival!
Get a checkup
Well before you and your pet leave, it’s a good idea to visit your vet for a checkup and to make sure that your dog is fit to travel. You may need to update vaccinations or pickup medications to keep your pet healthy while you’re away. Your vet may even prescribe your dog something to help them relax, since some dogs become anxious in transit.
Practice using a harness or crate
There are several options for securing your dog in the car while you drive. Make sure you choose an effective restraint that is right for your dog’s size, that your dog is happy, and that they are unable to become a distraction.
If you choose a crate, remember that even a dog who is crate-trained at home will need to be properly introduced to riding in a crate in the car. Give yourself lots of lead time, take it slowly, and don’t force them.
Similarly, if your dog is unaccustomed to wearing a harness restraint in the car, you’ll need to practice using one before the actual trip.
Some dogs take to these things right away, but it is always far easier to make a good introduction than to have to undo a negative association.
ID updates
Always take the time to make sure your dog’s ID information on their tag or microchip is correct before travelling. Then, if your dog does get lost, you’ll be more likely to be reunited quickly.
Do all these things with time to spare, and you’ll be hitting the road with confidence! We wish you a wonderful trip!