When you’re planning a holiday away, your pet is probably at the top of your mind. Should you find a trustworthy pet sitter or board your animal family member? One alternative is to take him/her on vacation with you. If you decide to bring your pet along, you’ll need to do some preparation.Travelling with your pet can be a wonderful bonding experience, but it requires detailed planning. Take these five strategies into account when you’re getting ready so you can create a holiday experience that’s as enjoyable for your pet as it is for you.

Introduction

Start by considering your pet’s needs and behaviour in the context of travelling. This can help you decide on the best way to holiday with your pet - or perhaps to leave them behind altogether. <a href="https://www.humanesociety.org/resources/travel-safely-your-pet-car-airplane-ship-or-train">More particularly</a>, if you can’t spend a lot of time with your pet during the trip, it might be best to board them or have a pet sitter look after them at home.

1. Consider your pet

Find ways to acclimatise your pet before your vacation, and your pet could be less anxious and be able to enjoy your trip together. If your pet will be spending time in the air or the car in their carrier, get them used to it. Start by leaving them inside the carrier for 30 seconds and then longer. Gradually build up the time so they’re able to relax when inside the carrier. <a href="https://veterinaryemergencygroup.com/blog/holiday-travel-pet-safety-tips/">From there</a>, you can start taking your pet out for drives, to pet-friendly cafes, parks, and other new environments to help them easily adjust to places like airports and busy tourist attractions.

3. Train your pet before the journey

For example, a cat or dog that vocalises excessively in the car might be better off with a pet sitter or at a boarding kennel. On the other hand, if your pet tends to be quiet and peaceful during car rides, you can probably happily take them on a road trip with the family. Just ensure they have plenty of space to be comfortable in the vehicle.

Car travel and anxious pets

If you’ll be taking your pet on a flight, talk to your vet and check that your furry family member will be able to cope. Flying might not be ideal for older animals and certain breeds of animals, such as short-nosed dog breeds like pugs and Boston Terriers. Note that some airlines ban these breeds from their flights. Given the fact air travel is stressful for animals, it might be best to avoid it if you can. <a href="https://www.rspcapetinsurance.org.au/pet-care/guides/pet-travel-guide">Keep in mind</a> you have other options like going by car, train, bus, or even ferry.

Should your pet fly?

Find out as much as you can about your destination. In addition, check your accommodation and verify it’s pet friendly. Research the locality for attractions like walking trails, parks, and beaches if you have a dog. It’s also a good idea to review local council regulations for different types of animals and breeds. Moreover, take the opportunity to ascertain whether there is local wildlife that could be dangerous for your pet, such as venomous snakes.

2. Pet-friendly accommodation

In addition, there might be other scenarios in which your pet is better off boarding or with a pet sitter. This could include where you’re travelling to very hot or cold areas, your pet is sensitive to extreme temperatures, and you’re spending a lot of time outdoors.

Extreme temperatures

Travel is usually designed with human comfort rather than pets in mind. Be proactive about keeping your animal family member as comfortable as possible.

4. Making your pet’s comfort a priority

Allow extra time in your travel schedule for things like toilet breaks and opportunities to stretch their legs and get moving.

Extra time

Do your best to maintain your pet’s daily routine during your travels. Whether you’re on the road or spending the vacation at a family member’s house, keep mealtimes and bedtimes the same as at home.

Routine

If you’re travelling with your dog in the car, make sure they have a high-quality safety belt, crate, or carrier designed for dogs. Cats could do well in a crate with enough space for their litter box.

Bring your pet’s favourite bed, blankets, and toys so they’ll have something familiar with them during the trip.

Favourite items

If you’re flying, give your pet only a very small meal a few hours before your flight. This way, your pet will be less likely to need to go to the bathroom when you’re in the air.

Small meal

Make sure you’re well prepared for the trip by packing these items:<ul><li>Waste bags and wipes for cleaning up after your dog</li><li>Travel water bottles and food bowls</li><li>Plenty of food and treats</li><li>Any medications and supplements they’re taking</li><li>Updated ID tags</li><li>Vaccination certificates, vet checkup reports, and any other paperwork required for travelling across international and state borders</li></ul>

5. What to pack for the trip

Some pets are suitable for bringing along during a holiday away, while others might be better boarded or left at home with a trusted sitter. If you decide to bring your pet along with you on a holiday, look out for pet-friendly accommodation and local attractions. Train pets beforehand to become used to their carrier and noisy, new environments.

Conclusion

For your journey, do all you can to keep your pet as comfortable as possible, including packing all the supplies you’ll need. Finally, be patient with yourself and your pet. Travelling can sometimes be stressful, so a forbearing and humorous attitude will come in handy. By following these steps, you’ll likely have a hassle-free trip that’s more enjoyable for both you and your pet.