Hitting the road with your pet for the holidays doesn’t have to be a stressful situation. In fact, with the right preparations, taking your pet along is not only easy, but a also a fun experience! Here are a few tips to get you started for traveling by car with pets.
- Assemble a pet-friendly travel kit: Bring food, bowls, leash, a waste scoop, plastic bags, grooming supplies, medication and first-aid, and any travel documents (these can include proof of current vaccinations, microchip information, updated pet and contact information and even a recent photo of your pet). Pack a favorite toy, bed or pillow to give your pet a sense of familiarity. Be sure to pack plenty of water and avoid feeding your pet in a moving vehicle.
- Frequent Pit Stops: Always provide frequent bathroom and exercise breaks. Most travel service areas have designated areas for walking your pet. Be sure to stay in this area particularly when you pet needs a potty break and and don’t forget to bring along a bag to pick up after your pet. When outside your vehicle, make sure that your pet is always on a leash and wearing a collar with a permanent and temporary travel identification tag.
- Proper Hydration: During your pit stops be sure to provide your pet with some fresh water.
- Practice Restraint: Be sure that your pet is safely restrained in your car. Utilizing a pet safety harness, travel kennel, vehicle pet barrier, or pet car seat are the best ways to keep your pet safe. They not only protect your pet from injury, but they help by keeping them from distracting you as you drive.
Also, the following links can provide even more valuable information to help you make your holiday trip a success!
AVMA Travel Tips
Vet Babble Car Travel Tips
Chewy.com Restraint Tips