Things You Need to Know About Traveling With DogsBy Angelica Malin
Traveling with your dog can be a really rewarding experience. You get to share happy moments and create great memories with your best friend. Yet, we should be responsible when taking our pets with us to new places. Traveling with dogs requires certain preparations. As a pet owner, you should learn all the perks of traveling with a dog before you decide to take your pup with you. Here are things you need to know about traveling with your dog by flight and by car. See how to approach these experiences and what methods suit you more.
Traveling by flight
Taking your dog to the plane with you can be rather stressful for both of you. Therefore, it’s important to learn all the rules and expectations of traveling with a dog by flight before committing to such a decision.
Dog passport
First things first, you should make sure your dog has all its vaccines done. Check if you are not overdue on some of the shots. Don’t forget you shot records to show in the airports. If you travel internationally, see what rules your country of destination sets for pets. Some countries have special requirements for vaccination. Don’t be lazy to research this info ahead of time. After all, it’s not like you need a write my paper service for such a task. Hiring an essay helper online can be an optimal solution but only if you are short of time or don’t know how to cope with the task. write an essay for me assistance is always just two clicks away so there is no need to worry that you’ll be left in the lurch.
Reserve a space
Dogs can travel by flight in two ways. Some are going to travel with you in the cabin as your carry-on or with the luggage in the cargo department. Both these ways should be safe for your pup. Still, many people prefer to keep their dogs close to them. However, your dog should be a certain (rather small) size to make this happen. All airlines have their own rules on transporting pets. So do your research first. Also, keep in mind that the carrier with your dog will be considered a carry-on. Hence, you can’t take any other bag with you.
Next, you should call the airline and ask if there is free space for a pet available. Usually, there is a limitation on the number of pets allowed in the cabin. Hence, it’s better to call in advance and book that space even before buying yourself a ticket. If there is no space left, your dog will fly in the cargo department.
Choose the right carrier
Last but not least, choose a good and comfortable carrier for your dog. Such a carrier should have enough space for dogs to sit and stand. It should also have good ventilation and have breathable materials. Try to find carriers with flexible walls. This way, it will be easier to fit a carrier under the seat. Make sure it has a leak-proof bottom in case of any surprises. Also, it’s a good idea to put a puppy pad underneath, just in case.
Traveling by car
Traveling by car with your dog can be an easier experience in terms of reduced stress and little preparation. Yet, you should learn a few basic rules on what to do and not to do when you are traveling with your dog. Also, this experience will solely depend on how well-behaved your pup is.
Practice first
You should get your dog accustomed to car rides ahead of time. Take your dog with you when you go to a shop or pick up your kids from school. Even sitting in a car in your driveway can help. Just let them adjust to being in care for prolonged periods. This way, they won’t get into a panic mode after a few minutes of riding. For young dogs, traveling for the first time can be overwhelming. So make sure they are at least familiar with your car and overall riding experience.
Safety first
You have to take good care of your dog. That includes their safety in the car. So, first things first, don’t ever let them stick their heads out in the open window. That may look cute, but, in reality, it is a very dangerous habit. Such a position can lead to eye injuries and infections. Secondly, consider getting a dog seat belt or even a special car seat for dogs. The latter is a great option for smaller breeds who can easily injure themselves during the ride. Also, try to keep your car well ventilated.
Lastly, don’t ever leave your dog alone in the car, especially during the hot season. Cars with turned-off AC get heated extremely fast. It gets to the point where your dog’s life can be in danger.
Make regular stops
Don’t forget to schedule regular stops along the way. Having short breaks is healthy for both humans and pets. Your pup needs to do their business outside, sure. But they also need some space to exercise and stretch, especially if it’s a larger breed. Don’t forget to give your dog water during those breaks. You may delay feeding your dog after the ride to avoid car sickness. Yet, they should