Are you thinking about bringing your pet on your next grand adventure? Wouldn’t it be so fun to walk the beaches with your pup or let them play in the snow in the mountains? This is easily achievable, but it may be more stressful than it needs to be if you have never done it before. Luckily, after just a bit of research, you will feel like a pro.
Read on to learn five ways your pet can travel with you and a few tips for your next trip.
1. Dog Carrier
No matter how you get to your destination, if you are traveling with your dog, you will want to bring a dog carrier. This just makes life so much easier for you and your little one. These carriers often have nifty pockets for storing necessary items, can fold out to make a dog bed, and are designed to make traveling a breeze. This is especially necessary if you are flying to your destination.
2. Crate
Dog carriers are great for smaller pups, but what if you have a medium to large dog? Unfortunately, you may not find much luck fitting them into a handheld carrier. Whether flying or driving to your destination, a crate is a great option for your large furry friend. Just make sure you research the best crates, the best airlines, and all of the rules and regulations of pet travel. If you are driving, make sure the crate can fit in your car with all your luggage.
3. Divider
Say you are driving on a long trip. Your dog is too big for a dog carrier, and your station wagon is too small for a dog crate. A divider might be the perfect solution for you. This simply divides the cabin of your car from the back, allowing your pup to roam the cargo area without the ability to get into the seated area. This is perfect for the Subaru owners out there.
4. Backpack
Do you plan on doing lots of walking on your trip but are worried that your dog may not be physically up for the task? This is a typical situation, and there is actually an easy and very cute solution to this problem. A dog carrier would be good for this, but you may have to carry your pup by hand or with a strap on your shoulder. A pet backpack is really the best solution for this situation. Just be prepared for lots of looks and comments on how cute it is.
5. Free Ride
Lastly, if your dog is well-behaved and good with long trips, you could just let him or her sit freely in the back seat of your vehicle. There are plenty of ways to make this safe for both your pet and your car. You can lay mats, towels, or even specific attachments that protect your seats and keep your dog from roaming to any other parts of the car. This can work for all sizes as well.
How To Prep For Your Trip
Now that you are familiar with the five ways your pet can travel with you, it’s time to learn how to best prepare for your trip. Traveling with pets is much more work than without, but it is worth it. So, here are a few things to keep in mind as you prepare for your journey.
Visit the Vet First
Up first, take your travel companion to the vet. You must know the emotional and physical condition your dog is in before putting them in a dog carrier and hitting the open road or soaring the skies. Let the vet know that you wish to take your furry one on a trip and ask them if they are in a healthy enough state to do so.
Make Copies of all Necessary Documents
Depending on where you are going and how you are getting there, you may need an assortment of different documents. Every country, airline, hotel, beach, or Airbnb is different. So, it is best to make copies of all critical documents and have them on hand wherever you go. This is the perfect thing to put in the pockets of your dog carrier.
Research Pet-Friendly Lodging
Lodging with pets can be tricky. Hotels like to charge an arm and a leg for it. However, there are affordable options just about anywhere you go. So, research hotels and Airbnb and read all the reviews before you book. This is the best way to confidently get what you pay for for you and your pet.
Make a Packing Checklist
Lastly, make a packing list for your pet. You probably already have a detailed packing list for yourself, but your pet will need just about as many things as you do. So, be sure to gather everything in one place the night before you leave, and check it all off the list before driving away.
The Bottom Line
Traveling is so much fun. But it is even better with a furry companion. So, use these methods and tips to your advantage on your next trip. Get a nice dog carrier and go see the world with your best friend in the world. Enjoy!
