Traveling with dogs can be a fun and unique experience. However, there are many challenges to overcome when traveling with your pet by car or plane. There are some considerations to keep in mind during the travel and when you reach your destination. Planning ahead of time is very important when taking your dog with you on a vacation
Use a travel dog crate for the road
Using a dog crate is a must when traveling by air. However, using a crate when traveling by car is also a good idea. Most owners don’t like the idea of putting their dogs in a crate, people tend to think that crates are cruel and uncomfortable for dogs, and naturally only use them when necessary, like traveling by plane. But dogs don’t mind crates. Dogs feel safer inside their crate. The main reason for using a crate for your dog on a road trip is safety for you and your dog, as it will avoid distractions and will stop your dog from flying inside the cabin if you brake hard.
Traveling by airplane with your dog.
The most important thing you must do when traveling by airplane with your dog is to check the airline’s rules regarding pets, this way you will avoid bad surprises at the airport. Some airlines allow small dogs to travel in the cabin with their owners, while bigger dogs will probably travel in the cargo area. In any case, your dog will be in a crate. Only service dogs are normally allowed without a crate and are seated next to their owner. If you are taking an international flight, do your research, and find out the legal requirements of the destination country, you will likely be asked for a health certificate, each country will have different rules and limitations for traveling with animals.
Did you know that people who have emotional support animals (ESAs) can travel by plane with their pets without restrictions? If you want to know if you qualify to have an Emotional Support Animal (ESA) and if so, find out how you can travel with your pet, click here.
Things to keep in mind when traveling with your dog.
The first to keep in mind is to check your pet’s crate for choke hazards, leashes and collars inside a crate are especially dangerous. The second thing to keep in mind is that dogs are prone to motion sickness, so don’t feed your dog before a long road trip. If you are traveling by air, the dog should fast for 6 hours before the flight. Being in a crate for a long time will be difficult if the dog has a full stomach or bladder. It’s also a good idea to make a stop as close to the departure as possible, so your dog has a chance to do his business, you can give him some water, just enough to avoid dehydration, and a little snack preferably high in protein.
Related post: How to Safely Take Your Dachshund on the Road
Should you medicate your dog?
Some people like the idea of giving sedatives to their dogs to help them be calm during long trips, however, most experts advise against medicating dogs for this reason. In fact, according to the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), sedating pets during air travel may lead to respiratory and heart problems. Instead of using pharmaceuticals to calm your pet, try putting his favorite blanket inside his crate, you can also include his favorite toy or stuffed animal. This will help him be calm and relaxed during the travel.
What if you can’t travel with your dog?
Sometimes, it’s impossible to take your pet with you on your travels. One thing you can do is use a dog boarding service to leave your dog while you are away. Another option is to find a trusted pet sitter. The ideal pet sitter is someone who knows how calm your dog is if he gets anxious or nervous. A good house sitter will also maintain your dog’s daily routine, including feeding time and daily walks. There are online services like Trusted House Sitters that help people find reputable pet sitters, so you don’t have to worry about your pet while you are away.
Check out this related post: Hiking and Camping with a Dachshund
