Tips for Traveling with Your Dog
Traveling with your dog is a super exciting experience! Not only do you get to spend quality time with them on a vacation or trip, but they also get to explore a new place with their favorite person. While planning a vacation is fun, it can also be stressful to plan for a trip with your furry friend. Before you head out, it is important you plan ahead and get organized so you and your dog have a successful journey. Here are some tips on how to make traveling with your furry friend a smooth process!
Before You Go
Before you leave on your trip, your dog needs to be up to date on their vaccination and other health treatments. You should ask your vet to give you records/certifications, as this is required for your pup to travel in many cases. Be sure you have emergency numbers and your vet’s info in case anything happens. You should also prep a supply of your pup’s usual food. It is important to have the type of food they normally eat so their body stays in the same routine. Bring bottled water for the trip as well. When prepping your dog for the trip, you want to be sure they have a sturdy collar and updated tags. This is key to returning your dog if they ever get lost.
Choosing a Crate
No matter if you’re traveling by car, plane, or train, a crate is often a great way to keep your dog safe when traveling. It can also come in handy once you arrive to your destination, whether it be a hotel or a host’s home. Choosing the crate is important, as you want your pup to be safe and comfortable. Here are some things to look out for.
- Size: Your pup should be able to stand, turn, and lie down, but the crate shouldn’t be too much larger or they may slide around.
- Material: Find a crate that is a sturdy material with handles and grips. The bottom should be leak proof and have an absorbent material.
- Features: You want the crate to have ventilation on opposing sides so your dog can get air flow.
Be sure to add your own name, address, and phone number in case something happens. You should also throw in your dog’s favorite toy, water, and anything else that will make them feel at home.
Car Rides
If you’re taking your trip by car, there are some things you can do before you leave to prep your pup. Get them used to the car by having them sit in the car without actually driving. You should also be sure your pup travels on an empty stomach, since eating closely before can cause car sickness. Be sure your dog is getting plenty of fresh air throughout the ride, and stop frequently for breaks. You’ll want your dog to go to the bathroom, but also get some exercise and hopefully get out any pent up energy.
Flying with Your Dog
Flying with your pup takes a little more planning. As mentioned before, be sure you schedule a trip to the vet at least a few weeks before your flight. You’ll need to submit all the certifications to the airline 10 days before. Every airline has different regulations on crates, weight of dogs allowed, etc. Be sure to check and read up on the rules before booking your flight. You are required to make a reservation for your pup as well, and there is often a limit on dogs allowed, so be sure to book your flight early.
General Tips for Pup Travels
- Plan bathroom breaks and train your dog to be able to go on other surfaces besides just grass.
- Bring a supply of poop bags, since you never know if a park or pit stop will have some.
- Pack toys and mind stimulating games to keep your dog occupied in the car or on the plane.
- Bring along collapsable bowls for water and food so you can feed your dog anywhere!
Hopefully now you feel more at ease and ready for your trip. Good luck!