Traveling with your pet can be a rewarding experience, but it requires careful planning to ensure their comfort and safety. Here’s a comprehensive checklist to help you prepare for a smooth journey:
Pre-Trip Preparations
- Visit the Veterinarian: Schedule a check-up to ensure your pet is healthy and up-to-date on vaccinations.
- Obtain Medical Records: Carry copies of your pet’s health records, including vaccination history, in case of emergencies.
- Health Certificates: Inquire to see if you will need to get a domestic health certificate for your pet. Traveling internationally with your pet always requires an international health certificate. Your veterinarian can provide you with information prior to your appointment. You can also get additional information at www.aphis.usda.gov/pet-travel
- Microchip or ID Tags: Ensure your pet has proper identification in case they get lost. Alo make sure all contact info registered to your pet’s identification is up to date with the latest and most accurate information.
Travel Essentials
- Comfortable Carrier: Choose a well-ventilated, secure carrier that allows your pet to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably.
- Seatbelt Harness: Use a pet seat belt harness or a secured crate to prevent distractions and injuries during travel.
- Travel Bedding: Bring familiar bedding to provide comfort and reduce anxiety. This includes blankets with familiar odors and scents of home.
Food and Water
- Regular Diet: Pack enough of your pet’s regular food to last the entire trip, plus extra in case of delays. If your pet uses fresh food, like Freshpet recipes, make sure to include a convenient cooler with ice packs that will keep their diet cool and refrigerated during travel.
- Portable Bowls: Use collapsible or spill-proof bowls for feeding and watering during stops.
- Treats and Snacks: Bring along your pet’s favorite treats to reward good behavior and keep them content.
- Avoid Feeding Before Travel: If your pet is prone to motion sickness, avoid feeding your pet a large meal right before departure.
Health and Safety
- First Aid Kit: Include items like bandages, tweezers, and antiseptic wipes tailored for pets.
- Medications: If your pet requires medication, ensure you have enough for the entire trip, plus a few extra days. If the medication requires refrigeration (like insulin), make sure it has a designated area in a cooler and is well insulated with ice packs.
- Familiar Items: Bring along your pet’s favorite toys or comfort items to reduce stress.
On the Road
- Frequent Breaks: Stop every 2-3 hours to allow your pet to stretch, relieve themselves, and hydrate.
- Leash and Waste Bags: Always keep your pet on a leash during stops and clean up after them.
- Avoid Hot Cars: Never leave your pet unattended in a vehicle, especially in hot weather. Pets can get hot very quickly in an unattended vehicle.
Accommodations
- Pet-Friendly Lodging: Confirm that your accommodations are pet-friendly and inquire about any additional fees or restrictions. Some hotels have pet specific perks and amenities, so make sure to ask!
- Local Vets: Research and note the contact information of nearby veterinarians at your destination, including an emergency hospital.
By following this checklist, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable vacation for both you and your pet. Remember, preparation is key to a successful trip.