How to Travel With Your Pets Safely

Traveling with your pet can add an additional level of stress, especially if you spend much of the journey worrying about your pet’s well-being. Whether you are traveling on the road or by air, making sure your pet is safe at all times is critical. If you are wondering how you can make sure that your pet is safe when you are traveling with them, then this guide is here to help.

Tips for Traveling By Air

Traveling by air can be particularly difficult for those making the journey with their pet. This journey becomes even more complicated when your pet is not small enough to travel with you in the cabin and has to go in the hold. If you have to travel with your pet by air, it is important you follow the tips below to ensure their safety.

• Book the most direct flight

Booking a direct flight will reduce the amount of time your pet is traveling for. It will also limit the chances of your pet being left waiting on the hot tarmac or is mishandled by baggage carriers.

• Take your pet to the vet

You will need to visit the vet in order to secure a certificate showing they are safe to fly. It is also a good idea to talk to your vet about how you can keep your pet safe and relaxed during the flight.

• Purchase the right crate

Purchasing the right crate is essential for ensuring your pet’s safety and comfort during the journey. The crate should be large enough that your pet can sit, turn and lie down comfortably. It is a good idea to line the crate with bedding to absorb any accidents that might occur. You should make sure the crate is closed securely but is not locked, so the airline staff can get into the crate in case of emergency. It is also a good idea to freeze a bowl of water so it will unfreeze by the time your pet is in the air.

• Inform the airline

You should make sure you have informed all relevant members of staff and everyone you directly encounter from the airline while traveling of your pet being in the airplane. You also need to clearly label your crate.

Traveling by Road

Pet transport is much easier by road than it is when you are traveling by air. However, there are still a number of things you can do to ensure their safety.  

• Get your pet ready for the trip

Taking your pet on car journeys before you embark on your trip is a good idea to get them more accustomed to the car. Then, by the time the long trip arrives, they will be ready to face it.

• Seek out experts

It can be helpful to reach out to pet transport experts who will ensure that you don’t need to worry about getting your pets transported safely. Experts will put your pet’s well-being at the forefront, and it won’t cost you an absolute fortune either. This enables you and your pet to get to where you need to go safely without the stress of transporting them yourself.

• Buy the right crate of carrier

For the safety of your pet, you should not let them ride loose with you in the car. Much like for air travel, you will need to buy a crate or carrier that they are able to move around comfortably in. You also need to make sure the crate or carrier is secure, so it does not move even if you stop suddenly. It also needs to be well ventilated.

• Pack a travel kit

You should pack a little travel kit for your pet that includes waste bags, food, a bowl, a leash, medication, water, and travel documents. It is also a good idea to pack your pet’s favorite toy or pillow so they feel more comfortable with something familiar with them in their crate.