Traveling without your pets can be stressful and upsetting, especially if you are away for a longer period of time. You just want to have them by your side, and it’s definitely possible to travel with them. Here are some top tips for making sure that everything goes smoothly if you travel with your pet.
Know your quarantine rules
It’s important to know the rules when you travel. If you cross into another country, you may be required to place your pets into quarantine for a while. If you don’t, the consequences could be dire. Recently you may have heard of Johnny Depp almost being sentenced to prison because he did not quarantine his dogs in Australia. If you aren’t a famous movie star, you absolutely won’t get away with skipping these rules.
Make sure you have the right insurance
Always seek out experts in pet insurance, such as MiPetInsurance. Your pets could become ill or injured while away from home, and if your pet insurance does not cover travel, you could be in trouble. It’s really important that you have the right insurance so that if something does happen, you can deal with it right away. It’s not fair to make them suffer because you were not well-organised before an accident.
Project safety with crates
When you have to crate your pet, it can be heart-wrenching for you. But the crate is ultimately a safe way for them to travel, which is positive. Treat it this way and don’t be afraid of the crate. If you talk to your pet in a sad tone, try to force them into the crate, or otherwise show negativity, they will pick up on it and become anxious. Instead, you should use a positive tone and praise. The first time they travel by crate, come back 15 minutes after placing them inside to reassure them that you will see them again soon (but don’t take your pets out temporarily).
Use up their energy
Before going anywhere, try letting your pet run around and burn off their excess energy. This will make them more likely to rest during the travel, so they are not distressed or trying to get out. It’s also great if you are driving them around, because it means that you won’t be distracted by a bundle of energy in the back of the car.
Bring some home comforts
Make sure that your pet has their favourite toy and perhaps a blanket or bed from home to sleep in. This will help them to feel more relaxed and less stressed. Try also to bring the same treats and food that you use at home with you so that you do not disrupt their diet. This will help them to continue a normal life, which is perfect for their health and safety.
Be vigilant in new environments
Whether in a hotel room, wandering around a new park, or even staying in a friend’s home, the new environment is different to what both you and your dog or cat are used to. Be vigilant for any safety concerns. Your dog may wish to sniff around plants which turn out to be toxic, or your cat may straight away want to dive into an area where local felines fight. Keep them close by you at all times and be wary. You should, however, project confidence and dominance so as not to spook your pet into feeling scared themselves.
When traveling, the important thing is to pay attention to what your pet needs. Be reassuring and confident when they are scared, and dominant when they misbehave, and you will remain in control.
