Traveling with pets can be quite an adventure, but it can also be rather difficult. Indeed, it’s an involved, complicated process. There’s a lot that goes into getting your fur baby ready for a big move or a holiday as well as preparing everything they may need while en route to your destination. There are so many factors that you’ll have to consider in advance, too, all depending on how you plan on getting there and how long the journey will take.

However, just because these challenges seem daunting doesn’t mean that they can’t be overcome. With a bit of preparation and planning, there’s no reason why your furry friend can’t also be your new favorite travel buddy. That said, here are six tips and tricks that can make any trip safer, happier, and more comfortable for your canine companion:

 

Before Traveling with Your Pet

Of course when you’re at home, your pet is in tip top shape, due to things like Nutra Thrive for Cats. To ensure the same thing on the road, there are a few health and safety precautions that you need to take before going anywhere with your fur baby. Some of them can take months to complete, though, so take that into account before drawing up your itinerary.

Pack Extra Food and Weather-Appropriate Pet Clothing

When traveling with your furry friend, it’s best to keep their food consistent, check Ultimate Pet Nutrition reviews to help with the decisions. Making abrupt changes to their diet can cause them to refuse to eat or lead to stomach upset and other gastrointestinal issues while you’re away from home. You’ll want to measure out how much food your dog will need for each day while adding a bit extra to accommodate any emergencies. It’s also a good idea to have plenty of private label pet treats on hand to comfort and calm them over the course of your journey.

Another essential item that you should remember to pack is pet clothing. Just because your canine companion has a fur coat doesn’t mean that they’ll be immune to the elements. Customizable full zip dog hoodies are a cute and stylish way to keep your buddy warm if you’re heading off to cooler climes. Meanwhile, a pet bandana or hat can protect their head from the harsh rays of the sun if your vacation destination is a tropical one.

Have Your Pet Properly Vaccinated

Vaccinating your dog doesn’t just keep them healthy. It protects them from all sorts of diseases and prevents them from spreading any diseases to other animals. Additionally, you need to have an updated copy of your canine companion’s vaccination records if you plan on traveling internationally. Indeed, you may not even be able to take your fur baby on a trip out of state without a health certificate provided by a USDA-accredited veterinarian. 

Your dog may already be vaccinated, but it never hurts to check with your veterinarian if there are any additional vaccines your animal friend will need for travel purposes. 

Consider Having Your Pet Microchipped

Microchipping your pup can be one of the best decisions you can make for them. It increases the likelihood of being reunited with your canine companion in case they get away from you at an unfamiliar location. The quick, simple, and painless procedure involves implanting a microchip under your pet’s skin. The microchip is connected to your current contact information, allowing others to easily get in touch with you if they find your lost fur baby. 

While Traveling with Your Pet

Whether you plan on taking your pup on a car, train, bus, or plane, these tips can make the journey much easier for them. 

Keep Your Pet Constrained

When you’re driving, you want to keep both eyes on the road and both hands on the wheel. Leaving your dog unconstrained while in a moving vehicle can be a recipe for disaster, especially because you never know what might startle them or make them jump around and distract you.

For your safety and the safety of your passengers, put your pup in a harness or some other form of restraint while traveling. This way, you won’t have to worry about them making any sudden moves while you’re behind the wheel. In place of a harness or pet seat belt, you can also put them in the crate that they sleep in.

Map Out Your Pit Stops

Going for a long drive? Keep your dog’s needs in mind while mapping out the journey. You’ll want to give them plenty of opportunities to stretch their legs, use the restroom, and get their nervous energy out through some outdoor play. Remember to keep them leashed whenever they’re out of the car, though.

Bring Plenty of Treats and Toys

Treats, toys, and other comfort items can go a long way towards making your pup feel less anxious about being somewhere they don’t know. It’s a good idea to bring a handful of their best-loved toys, their favorite blanket, and enough treats to last you the entire time you’re away. Be generous when rewarding good behavior—your pet will surely appreciate it. 

When you get down to it, keeping your fur baby comfortable while traveling isn’t a complicated affair at all. You just need to take the time to plan and prepare them for it. You’ll both enjoy your trip more when you do!