These days Instagram has opened the eyes of many travellers. Earlier people used to wonder if they can travel with pets, now thanks to Instagram you see pictures of pets travelling with their family all around the world. It is actually quite simple if you want to travel with your pets. If you are travelling with a pet there is something that you cannot compromise
Doctor’s visit
Before any trip visit the vet and ensure your pet is fit to travel. Also, make sure to take all the medications they might need and that they took all the necessary vaccinations before travelling to a foreign country.
Kennel or Cage
If you are travelling, especially by air, then your pet should have its own cage. The pet should be comfortable sitting in the cage for long durations. You need to get your pet into the habit of staying in the cage well in advance of your travel date. Most airlines do not allow pets in the cabin. Besides when pets are in the cage it becomes easier for you to manoeuvre in a crowded airport, all you have to do is carry the cage, no need to put the leash and keep running behind your pet.
Leash
It is inevitable to have a good leash around your pet during travel. Your pet may be the best behaved but people are scared of animals. You don’t want any fuss to be created during your trips, so, keep the pet on a leash.
Collar
You should have a comfortable collar for your pet with its name and your details on it. In case if the pet gets lost it will be easier to get it back.
Waste bag
Unlike India, most places have strict rules about pets pooping on the streets. So carry waste bag and clean up your pet’s poop. Generally, it is a good habit to follow even in India.
Toys
You need to keep your pet busy during the trip, especially in the cage during long flights. You can give chew toys, treat-dispensing balls and other interactive things to play. Ensure that the toys are not squeaky ones. Their favourite toys can help them reduce stress and anxiety.
Air travel
If you are travelling by air, first check with the airlines if pets can travel with you in the cabin or they need to travel in a pet cargo confined to their cage. Preferably get a flight which allows your pet in the cabin and that too with direct flights. This will avoid a whole lot of stress to your pet.
A few days before boarding the flight make your pet spend more time in the cage and if possible create some aircraft sounds to make them familiar. Make your pet poop before boarding to avoid the mess in the aircraft. But even if they want to poop in the aircraft check with the cabin crew where they can poop.
Road Trip
Road trip with pets is usually good fun if the pet is well behaved. Before the trip mark out the route and plan pit stops so that you and pet can stretch a bit and also relieve. Keep your pet on the backseat in a safe environment; don’t let them put their head out as they show in movies. It can be dangerous, on highways other drivers might hurt your pet or the cold air can get into the lungs and cause fever, etc. Carry treats with you and keep feeding your pet for good behaviour
Overall travelling with pets can be intimidating, but if you take proper care you can make it happen easily. Besides, pets are family so why leave one family member when all are enjoying the trip.