As a pet-parent, traveling with your pet is one of the best parts about travel! Pets always seem to make everything better. But as you pack your bags up, don’t forget to properly pack your pet’s bags as well. From food to paperwork, we’re covering all the do’s and don’t’s of traveling with a pet.
DON’T: Forget to Pack the Necessary Gear
It might sound silly but forgetting to pack the necessary gear isn’t uncommon! Before you start packing, make a list of essentials your pet will need. We recommend packing:
- Leash and extra harnesses
- Treats
- Carrier
- Food
- Toys
- Kinn Kleanbowl & Nourish-Pet Refills
All of these are great starting points for your pet’s bag. Kleanbowls are great to travel with because they’re recyclable, require no washing (which can be difficult while traveling), and remain plaque and germ-free. When your pet smells the Kleanbowl, they’ll be eager to stay hydrated.
DO: Properly ID Your Pet
Even if you’re not flying, traveling by car and crossing state lines still requires you to have proper documentation and identification for your pet. You’ll need to carry paperwork that lays out their shot history, have proper tags on them, and any other state or country required identification.
DON’T: Wait Until the Last Minute to Plan Your Pet’s Travel
While you may not mind your pet going everywhere with you, other places do. Don’t wait until the last minute to find out that your pet can’t board the plane, travel to a certain state or country, or isn’t allowed to stay in the hotel or AirBnB. You can greenlight your pet’s travel prior to your travel dates by contacting the airliner, checking any state regulations, and making sure you’re choosing pet-friendly hotels and AirBnB’s.
DO: Check Species and Breed Restrictions
Unfortunately, some species are banned from travel or entering certain hotels. Always check with your airliner and stay accommodations prior to traveling. Some businesses may be okay with mixed-breeds and others may not. Just don’t wait until the last minute to find out that your pet is not green-lighted to travel.
DON’T: Sedate Your Pet Before Traveling
You might think that sedating your pet prior to traveling will be the easiest solution for you and your pet. However, sedating your pet can be very dangerous without your vet’s supervision and guidance. Never sedate your pet on your own without having first consulted your vet.
To avoid a distressed pet, get them acquainted with their crate before your travel date arrives. Leave the crate out in the open for about a week or two prior to travel. This will help them become familiar with the carrier and reduce their stress levels.
DO: Carry Necessary Paperwork
Even if you don’t think it’s important, it’s important. Make sure to keep all documents of shots, vaccinations, illnesses, and medications on hand. Depending on the state, country, and way in which you’re traveling, you may be asked to present these documents often. So keep them somewhere handy and easy to find.
DON’T: Let Your Pet Ride Loose in a Car
You wouldn’t let your child or friend ride loose in a car, so why do you let your pet? Having a pet loose in the car puts everyone inside the vehicle at risk. Your pet may jump around, distract the driver, or become injured during a sudden stop. Amazon offers a wide selection of inexpensive seatbelts for pets.
Safe Travels
This summer, enjoy your travels safely with your pets! Don’t forget to pick up a Kleanbowl starter pack to keep your pet hydrated while you travel. Don’t forget to tag us in your adventures!
