Tips for Traveling with Pets 

CategoriesTravel Nursing

A furry friend can be a great companion when you hit the road for your next assignment. It’s not always easy to meet people and a cat or dog can help keep your traveling nerves at ease and keep you company in your new city. Whether you’re traveling by plane or car, there is a checklist of items to make sure your pet is taken care of on the road. 

Traveling By Plane

Make an appointment with the vet 

It’s important to make an appointment with a veterinarian before taking a long trip with your dog to ensure they are up-to-date on their vaccinations and to obtain a health check certification. It’s also a good idea to check with your furry friend’s doctor to talk through possible medications to help get your pet through a long day of travel. 

Book a direct flight 

Long flights are hard, but having to de-plane, wait in the terminal, and re-board another flight can be harder. Booking a direct flight can help avoid the discomfort of having to move your pet on and off a plane and having to deal with the general public. If your pet isn’t sitting in your lap, it can help avoid the times they are handled by staff or having to wait outside.

Make sure your pet is hydrated

Most likely a no-brainer, making sure your pet is hydrated is a big key to pet travel and comfortability. To avoid any mishaps or possible dehydration, keep a foldable bowl for water handy. Some water bowls can even fit nicely in a crate. Most airport terminals now have water refilling stations where you can fill up your bowl or water bottle at no charge. Another good trick is feeding them wet food instead of dry food. Wet food contains water which can help hydrate your pet. 

By Car 

Train them with short rides first

If you’re gearing up for a long ride with your pet, it’s a good idea to start them with shorter rides first to get them adjusted. This is especially good for animals who are not used to being in a crate or in a moving vehicle. Getting them used to the car’s motion and being in a confined space for long periods of time, can help them feel safer and more comfortable on their journey. 

Make sure they have a durable, comfortable crate 

Before you set off, make sure your animal has a safe, comfy crate for its journey. Some animals that haven’t traveled in a while may have outgrown their original crates and might need some extra room. On the other hand, if you’ve used your pet’s crate recently, but have only used it to carry them to the vet or somewhere close to home, you can ensure they’re more comfortable by adding toys and soft blankets in the crate. 

Make sure your pet is hydrated

Just like when you’re flying with your pet, it’s important to have water for your pet on your car journey. Road trips are perfect for crate water bowls. When you’re driving you also have the option to stop and let your pet out to get some water.

Don’t leave your pet in the car alone

No matter the temperature, it’s never a good idea to leave your pet in the car alone. On a hot day, even with the window cracked, could prove to be fatal if your pet is left alone. The same goes for cold temperatures that could potentially make your furry friend freeze. 

Whether you’re flying or driving, these tips and tricks can help keep your pet happy and healthy. Ready to start your next travel nursing placement with your furry friend? Head to our Stability Healthcare job board to get started. Let us know how your tricks for comfortable travel with your pet!

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