How to Travel with Your Pet
When you have a pet and an upcoming trip, you have to decide between leaving them at home with a pet sitter, checking them into a boarding facility, or bringing them along on your journey. If you choose to travel with your pet, consider the following advice to ensure you’re well-prepared and can enjoy a smooth trip with your four-legged friend in tow.
Tips for Safe and Easy Pet Travel
Whether you’re preparing to leave, hitting the road, or just arriving at your destination, consider the following tips for traveling with pets.
What to Do Before Traveling with Your Pet
- Pets can become lost much easier when they're in an unfamiliar place. Before you go, update ID tags and get your pet microchipped. If your pet already has a microchip, make sure your current contact information is listed in the database.
- Different states and countries have different vaccine requirements for pets and different parasites lurking around. Talk with our veterinarian about your pet's vaccinations and parasite preventatives well before you go.
- Research pet travel requirements. Whether you plan to cross state lines, visit another country, or travel on any form of public transportation, your pet will likely need an official health certificate or vaccination records at the least.
- If you're concerned about your pet getting carsick or experiencing anxiety on an airplane ride, ask our veterinarian about short-term pharmaceutical solutions.
- Purchase a travel carrier or crate before your trip, so your pet can get used to spending time in it at home.
Hitting the Road with Your Pet
- Pack more food, water, and prescription medications than you think your pet will need.
- Bring along a favorite toy or pet bed for comfort.
- Schedule plenty of time to stop frequently along the road for potty breaks and exercise at local dog parks.
Considerations for Your Destination
- Find a pet-friendly hotel (preferably near a dog park) and request a ground-floor room for quick outdoor breaks.
- Note nearby 24/7 emergency veterinarians, so you're prepared in case your pet needs medical attention.
Make Sure Your Pet's Travel-Ready – Book an Appointment with Our Pensacola Veterinarian
If you have an upcoming trip and plan to bring your pet along for the ride, we recommend scheduling an appointment with a veterinarian at Olive Branch Pet Hospital. We’ll make sure your pet’s vaccinations are up to date and provide you with any travel paperwork you might need. Plus, we can discuss prescriptions to combat car sickness or anxiety that could simplify your trip. To learn more, contact our office today.
