Traveling With your Pet : Getting yourself ready for Pet Travel

[Micheal Jorden]

If you are arranging a trip and you know you'll be traveling your pet there are a few things you will need to prepare before travel time. Some pets are good travelers, but others may be very nervous so depending on where your pet falls in this range you may have to take a few extra precautions.

It's understandable that a dog, or especially a cat, may be nervous when make your best effort. Most pets function better on a routine. When you're traveling you are taking them out of their normal environment and even the basics like eating and going to the potty may not be able to fall on the same schedule you have at home. Plus you can't communicate to them that is just a trip and they're going to be back at home afterward. If they don't travel much they may not determine what is occurring.

Because of all the potential stressors it's important to comfort your pet if you can , make your best effort. In order to do this you will need to prepare for the trip. One of the primary things you will need is a comfortable pet carrier. Find a pet carrier that is inviting and one that will make your dog feel more comfortable and secure. Introduce the pet carrier before the trip so she can get familiar with it. In fact if you can get her to sleep in it regularly ahead of time that's even better, so she could have a positive association with it.

If you will by flying be sure to call the airline and get that airline's specific requirements for pet travel. Different airline carriers can have different pet travel requirements and things can always change so it's best to call each time.

It's also important to make sure your pet is wearing a back of the shirt and a pet id tag (or microchip) just to be safe. In case something does happen and you are separated in this unfamiliar environment the id tag can make all the difference.

Bring your pets favorite blanket, pillow case, stuffed animal or toys and keep them in the pet carrier while traveling so she's got something familiar and comforting. Also try to bring her favorite or regular food and try to feed at the regular times international pet transport. Of course this is simply not always possible on travel days. Some pets have a sensitive stomach so it is don't to feed them too much on these days.

If you are thinking about giving your pet something to sedate or relax her during travel be sure to confer with your animal medical practitioner about it first. Some of these drugs must not be used while flying.

For some pets traveling is fun and exciting, but for others it's rather a little stressful. Just remember that your pet may not determine what is occurring and she may need a little extra patience and comforting make your best effort.