For pet parents, traveling without their furry companions just doesn’t feel right. You feel like you are missing a family member or best friend in attendance. But sometimes, you are left with no choice as you just cannot take your pets along while traveling through certain modes of transport like airways or waterways.
One way you can travel with your pets, though, is via roads. However, traveling by road does not just involve putting your pet in the back of the car and taking off. This is especially true if you are headed to a far-off place and plan on covering a long distance. There is a lot of planning and preparation required before you ensure that you are ready for a safe and pet-friendly travel experience.
Check out some tips listed below for your next trip and ensure a safe and comfortable road trip for both you as well as your pet.
1. Diet schedule
Your pet’s meal should ideally be given 3 to 4 hours before you leave for the trip. This should be a light meal so that your dog or cat does not have to sit in a moving car with a heavy tummy.
2. Do not allow head outside the window
It is strictly suggested to not let your pet put their head out the window of the car. This is because your pet could be hit by any moving objects at a high speed. It is also advisable to keep your pet in the backseat where they are safe and away from danger.
3. For journeys across state lines
While making trips where you will be crossing state borders, it is always good to keep your pet’s documents like their rabies vaccination records. This is because some states require these documents at interstate crossings. Usually you do not have to worry about this too much; however, it is always good to be safe and prepared.
4. Carry your own water
The water of the area that you are traveling to may not suit your pet and it could upset their stomach. It is best to carry your own bottled water for the trip, at least for the first few days.
5. Pet traveling kit
One of the main pet-friendly travel tips anyone could give you is to carry sufficient pet supplies. These can be packed as a pet travel kit. Your pet traveling kit should include all of the basic goods like food, paper bags, medication, bowl, an extra leash, grooming supplies, and a first aid kit. Apart from these essentials, make sure to carry along one of your pet’s favorite toys for a sense of familiarity and comfort during the trip.
6. Getting your pet used to drives
You cannot take your pet directly for a long-distance trip without first getting them accustomed to what it feels like traveling in a car. See how your dog or cat feels and reacts while sitting in a moving car and give them time to get over the restlessness of being cramped up. Take your pet for short drives first so that they do not feel unfamiliar while traveling in a car and the trip makes for a pet-friendly travel experience.