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If you are planning on visiting family or friends over the holiday season, you may be wondering what to do about your pet. Not everyone likes the idea of leaving their furry, feathered or scaly family member in a boarding facility, especially during Christmas. Ideally, we would all take our beloved companions with us wherever we go and fortunately, it is easier than ever to do this. We have put together the following tips to help prepare you on how to take your pet with you this holiday in the safest, smoothest and simplest way possible.
 

Schedule a pre-travel check-up with your vet

No matter how far you are going or how you are getting there, it is always a good idea to have a pre-travel check-up with your veterinarian before you head out. You will want to ensure that your pet is healthy enough to travel and that they are up to date with all of their preventatives. This is particularly important since some states have very specific rules and regulations related to the vaccination of animals visiting the area. If your pet is an especially nervous traveller, your vet may be able to prescribe them something to help them feel calm and relaxed on the journey.
 

Think car safety

If you are travelling to your destination by car, you will need to take very specific steps to keep both you and your pet safe during the journey. All animals, no matter the species, need to be restrained while travelling. For some animals, a cage is sufficient. For dogs, it is now possible to get special travelling harnesses that act like seatbelts and will help keep your pet safe in the event of an accident.

Regular breaks

If you are able to, be sure to take plenty of comfort breaks on your journey. Your pet will benefit from stretching their legs while emptying their bladder and/or bowels. Be sure to bring enough water and snacks to the last the duration of the journey.

Pack carefully

You will need to pack for your pet as well as your human family. Make a list so you are sure that you don’t forget anything important. Be sure to include their food, bedding/cage, a favorite toy, food/water bowls, their leash and any medications that may be required. Cats will also need a litterbox and litter. Furthermore, it’s always a good idea to take enough food and medication for a few extra days in case you decide to stay a little longer or have any delays while travelling home.

The new accommodation

Before you decide to take your pet with you, you will need to check that they are welcome at your lodging of choice. Upon arrival, you will then need to make sure that your pet fits in ok. Exactly what this means will depend on the type of pet you have. Caged animals are generally much easier to accommodate, though you will need to check with your host to see if you are able to get them out while you are there. In the case of cats and dogs, it’s a good idea to introduce them to everyone in the home, both humans and other pets, one by one. If there are children around, never leave them unsupervised with your pet as they may not have much experience handling animals which could lead to problems with how they interact with your pet. If you are going to a pet-free home, be very vigilant of household dangers.

Follow any rules

If you are flying or travelling on another form of public transport, be sure that you have filled out all the necessary paperwork ahead of time and that your pet complies with any rules and regulations that they have. This could be related to many factors including preventative care or the types and weights of animals that they accept. You don’t want to arrive at your booking and be disappointed that your pet is refused travel.

If you would like more advice and support on how to travel with your pet this holiday season, please get in touch with our veterinary team today.