Tips for Traveling with Your Furry Friend
Traveling with a pet can be a challenging venture if you are not properly prepared before heading out. From finding proper accommodations to the mode of transportation, your furry friend’s needs should always be prioritized if you choose to bring them along with you. We hope to make your travels as easy as possible through the carefully selected tips below.
Making Car Travel Simple
The majority of people traveling with their pet will ultimately decide to use their car as a means of transportation. While in the car, there a few considerations to take into account when traveling long distances with your pet.
Before the Trip
Regardless of how many times your pet has traveled with you in the past, it is important to always prepare them before an upcoming excursion. Taking them on short drives around your neighborhood or to local spots will help them adjust to the car’s environment and familiarize them with this mode of transportation.
Ventilation
Depending on the weather conditions during your time of travel, it may be difficult to properly ventilate your car. Ventilation is key when traveling with a pet since the enclosed space may become overwhelming if not properly vented. Cracking a window, ensuring that your air-conditioning is working, and making frequent stops will help ensure that your pet is as comfortable as possible during your trip.
Tackling Long-Distance Flights
The most important item to remember when using air transport with a pet is proper documentation of their health history as well as backup copies. Additionally, you’ll want to ensure that the crate your pet is traveling in is USDA approved before arriving at the airport. Extra considerations may be required depending on your airline so be sure to do your research before booking your trip.
Pack a Travel Kit
Packing a travel kit is important regardless of how long your trip is or the method of transport you choose. For ease of travel, consider bringing the following items along with you:
- Treats/snacks/meals
- Toys
- Blankets with a familiar smell
- Extra doggy bags
- Water bowl
- Water
- Brush
- First aid kit
- Sturdy leash
Structuring Your Trip Around Your Pet
Prepare for your trip by ensuring that the needs of both you and your furry friend are properly accommodated. Planning this ahead of time will help save any frustration you may encounter when checking into a hotel, dining out at a restaurant, or simply when visiting any nearby attractions.
As a general rule, you’ll want to search for accommodations that are as attentive to your pet as they are to the rest of their guests. At The Park on Main, we understand that your pet is a part of your family and that they deserve to be treated as any other guest. Be sure to contact us for more information at 1-800-221-5078 or check out our pet page before booking with us. We look forward to welcoming you and your furry friend soon!