Tips for Traveling With Dogs

[Sophie Andersen]

If you’re a dog owner, we’re sure that your furry friend is one of the best companions you could ask for, no matter what area of life we’re talking about. However, traveling with pets can often become quite challenging, especially if you’ve never done anything similar. If that’s the case with you, there’s no need to worry – just keep on reading and learn how to travel with your dog like a true pro. Here are three useful tips, so check them out and enjoy!

Make sure you provide a proper crate for your dog

When it comes to traveling with your pet, you must bear in mind that safety comes first. One of the best ways to keep your pet safe is keeping it in a crate, no matter what means of transportation you opt for. Many dog owners feel that a crate is an absolute must when traveling by car, and for airline travel it’s often obligatory. There are some important things you need to take into consideration when buying a crate, and the first one is the size of your dog. It should be large enough to allow your pet to turn, stand, and lie down. The crate should also have a leak-proof bottom that’s covered with absorbent material, as well as quality handles and grips. Of course, ventilation on opposite sides is required, together with your dog’s favorite toy, a ‘live animal’ sticker, upright arrows, and your name, address, and phone number on the crate.

Stick to foods you know your dog likes

Any kind of unfamiliar environment may cause stress and anxiety in your pet, which is exactly why you should always be there and provide it with much-needed comfort. Besides that, you should also stick to food you know your pet likes because potentially stressful situations like traveling aren’t the right time to experiment with other food options. So, be sure you stick to quality pet food your dog has already tried. Foods made entirely from natural ingredients are never a bad option, as these are the healthiest possible choice you can make for your furry best friend’s well-being. Dry dog food should probably be your number one choice, since it’s a really great and mess-free way of feeding your pet when you’re on the go.

Be fully prepared for all kinds of trips

Long flights can be really exhausting, both for you and your pet, so be sure you do everything you can do to be fully prepared for any kind of a trip. Always do your research and learn that fees and regulations can vary depending on where your pet flies – in the cabin, or as a checked baggage. You can always opt for pet-friendly airlines which offer climate-controlled cabins where flight attendants check on the animals every 15 minutes. On the other hand, if you choose to travel by car, you should take your pet for a test drive to see if it gets anxious or car sick before taking a long trip. You may already know that dogs enjoy sticking their heads out the car window, but this isn’t recommended simply because it can cause ear damage or even lead to lung infection in your pet. Of course, leaving your dog alone in a car isn’t recommended either, especially on a really hot day. So, if you want to explore a destination where pets aren’t allowed, just leave your dog at a pet-friendly hotel and you’ll be sure that it’s safe and taken care of properly.

As you can see, there are so many things you should bear in mind before embarking on a long trip with your pet. Just stick to our tips and you’ll accomplish everything like a true pro, without any doubt!