How to Prepare Your Pet for Holiday Travel

Whether you're traveling by car, plane, or train, the holiday season can be stressful for everyone. This is especially true if you're taking your pet with you. While many people choose to board their companion animals or get a sitter, this may not be an option if you are going on a more extended trip or your pet has separation anxiety. Use these tips to help prepare your pet (and you!) to travel stress-free this holiday season.

How Are You Traveling?

The first thing you'll need to consider when traveling with a furry best friend is the mode of transportation. How to prepare for your holiday will differ depending on how you plan to get there. If you journey by car, you'll have much more flexibility. On the other hand, if traveling by train, plane, or ferry, there will likely be many rules you must abide by. Here are some things you should keep in mind:

Having an appropriate carrier or crate. Airlines have specific guidelines on the size and type of container the pet will have to be in. Some airlines allow you to "carry on" smaller pets and place them under the seat, while others require you to check them as cargo. 

You may be required to show proof that your four-legged friend is up to date on their vaccines, such as rabies, Bordetella, and Lyme disease. This is especially important when traveling to a country like Mexico or Canada. You may also have to show a letter from a veterinarian proving that the pet is healthy enough to fly. The dog or cat will also likely need identification in the form of a collar, ID tag, and microchip. 

Be prepared to pay a fee associated with accommodating the pets' travel. Usually, these fees are around $150-200, depending on the airline and time of year. Most airlines also require each pet to have a human with them, so if there have multiple animals traveling, you'll need a person for each. 

Do a Practice Run

One of the best ways to get ready for the trip is to do a practice run. If you have a pet that is not used to being in a carrier or crate, the sooner you can get them comfortable, the better. You can leave the carrier out and place their favorite toys inside. For cats, sprinkling a little catnip or silvervine can help them to associate the crate with a positive experience. You want it to be a safe space for them that they feel comfortable in. 

Once your pet has been acclimated to being enclosed, you can take them for short drives in the car. Of course, ensure you have plenty of yummy treats to reward them for trying something new! Playing the sounds of airports or trains is another good way to desensitize them to the noises they will experience on the vacation. 

https://pixabay.com/photos/dog-toy-poodle-cute-animal-lovers-4742391/ 

Pack Their Favorite Things

From their favorite stuffed animals to calming treats, make your pet feel as close to home as possible by bringing the things they love. If you must be separated from them during the journey, give them a t-shirt or blanket with your scent. This is especially important for a pet that has separation anxiety. 

Remember to pack food, medication, and a portable drink carrier so you can ensure your pet stays hydrated on their trip. Bring extra in case there are any delays along the way. Many supplements available can keep them calm as they travel from point A to point B. 

https://pixabay.com/photos/dog-veterinary-pet-animal-clinic-1912874/ 

Consult a Veterinarian

A veterinarian can not only share some great advice but also ease your pet's anxiety by recommending calming medications or homeopathic cat and dog supplements like sprays or weighted vests that can make your furry friend feel more relaxed. They will also help ensure the pet is healthy enough to travel; the risks do not outweigh the benefits. Nothing ruins a family vacation faster than a sick pet who needs emergency attention, so make sure they are in tip-top shape before the holiday begins. This applies not only to their physical health but to their mental health. Even the most docile, happy animal can get highly stressed while traveling and react badly. Prevent accidents and escapes by having a plan in place. 

Enjoy Traveling With Your Pet

Any seasoned traveler understands that some stress is unavoidable, but it is possible to reduce it. By planning ahead of time, you can ensure your pets' comfort and that the trip goes smoothly. If your companion animal has never traveled before, it is important to be prepared for the unexpected. Fortunately, a few simple tips can make traveling with your pet as easy as possible.