Sometimes it is exciting to take a trip with your pets. However, as is the case with humans, not all pets like travelling. To be sure your pet has the best experience, there are a few things you should do to make their journey as comfortable as possible.
Let us take a look at how to master car travel with your pets.
Take the Right Accessories
It is always a good idea to check your pet accessories before you go on your trip. If you have a dog, then you should ensure that you include the must-have dog travel accessories and that you buy anything you need before you travel.
Most of these accessories will be for your dog’s comfort such as a comfy bed, some toys, and perhaps some spray that will relax your dog if they get anxious. You should also check that you have the right harness and safety belt so that your dog is secure for their safety and yours.
Assess the Health of Your Pet
If you have a pet that has health issues, then it is important to make sure they are well taken care of while you travel. Ideally you want to have them where you can see them and check on them while you are travelling.
If they seem unwell before you travel, get them checked by your vet before you leave. This will make sure that any problem is identified and any treatment started before you leave. For any animal that has an existing health condition, you need to have all the medication they may need for your journey, plus a little extra just in case.
Some animals such as rabbits can get stressed out in unfamiliar situations, so it is a good idea to see if you can get something to help calm them before you travel.
Take Regular Breaks
This is especially important if you have a dog as they may need to use the toilet from time to time. It will also help them to stretch and get some exercise for a while after being in the car.
For any other animal, giving them some fresh air, even while in their cage, can be helpful. It also gives you the chance to check on them and see that they are doing ok.
It is also a good idea to give your pets food and water while taking a break. This will keep them hydrated and some animals don’t like to eat or drink while moving in a vehicle.
Take Spare Bedding and Cleaning Materials
Some animals don’t like travelling, and they may feel unwell while in the car. It is important that if they are unwell, you have fresh bedding and cleaning materials to hand just in case.
Even if your pet has never been ill in a car before, there could always be a first time, especially if they get too hot. Plus, it is always better to be prepared just in case.
Plan Your Journey
If you are taking a long trip, it is always a good idea to plan your journey in advance. You want to schedule in regular breaks and be aware of any travel delays that may cause you to get stuck in traffic.
Planning ahead will help you to see any problems that might occur, plus you will know of any pet friendly places in case you need to stop for a while.
If you are planning a trip to the beach, check in advance that they allow pets such as dogs on the beach. Some beaches restrict dogs on the beach at certain times of the year.
Make Sure Your Pet Has Enough Room
Pets need space as much as humans do, so if you are travelling with a lot of luggage, make sure your pet has enough room in the car. If things are packed around them, they might not get enough fresh air and get too hot.
You might need to hire a bigger car if you find there isn’t much space for your pet. This is especially true for animals that are not in cages such as dogs, as they need room to move and stretch out if needed.
Conclusion
Taking your pet for a ride in the car can be a wonderful thing to do, especially if you are going somewhere they can play. However, it is important that you plan ahead and have everything you need before you go.
