*This article has been updated as of October 6, 2021.
Taking a trip with your pet can be an amazing experience. But it can also be stressful.
Don’t fret. Instead, read this article to learn how to travel with pets.
Flying with Your Pet
Flying is the quickest way to reach your destination, but it’s also complicated. Let’s talk about what you need to know when flying with pets.
Is Your Pet Allowed?
Some airlines have banned certain dog and cat breeds that have a higher risk of health problems during flight. For example, short-nosed dogs have difficulty breathing while flying in cargo.
Cabin or Cargo?
Small pets that weigh 20 Ibs or less can ride with you in the cabin. Unfortunately, pets that weigh more than the cabin’s weight limit must fly as cargo.
Get the Right Crate
Each airline has specific crate requirements. Make sure your pet’s crate meets those requirements. Otherwise, you might end up purchasing another crate from the airline at the last minute.
Additional Fees
Most airlines charge an additional pet fee, which will cost you about $125 to several hundred dollars. Service dogs are not subject to the same fees.
International Travel
The complications of flying with pets increase if you plan on leaving the country. You will have to find out what your airline’s international requirements and costs are.
Research Your Options
Your next step is to research different airlines to find the one that works best for you and your fur baby. Pay close attention to each airline’s specific pet fees and regulations.
And don’t forget to investigate each airline’s incident reports. Those reports include events that resulted in missing, injured, or dying pets.
Hit the Road with Your Pet
Flying is great, but it’s not always the best option for those who travel with pets. In some cases, it would be better to drive.
If you want to take a road trip with your pet, here’s what you need to do.
Take a Practice Drive
If your pet isn’t used to riding in the car, go on a few test runs with your furry friend before making the big trip. Gradually increase the duration of each drive.
Keep Safety First
If you can, keep your pet in a carrier during the drive. If you own a large dog that won’t fit inside a carrier, purchase a pet seat belt.
But don’t let your dog poke his head out the window. This could be dangerous, possibly damaging your canine’s ears. Plus, road debris might hit your dog in the eye.
Stop Often
Take a break from driving about every two hours. This will give your pet the chance to stretch his legs and use the bathroom. You will appreciate the break too!
Never let your pet off the leash while out of the car. And give your furball a drink of water during each break.
Whatever you do, don’t leave your pet alone in the car. Your car will probably get much hotter than you realize, which could be deadly
Pet Traveling Tips
Follow these tips if you want the best traveling experience possible.
Use Calming Apparel to Keep Your Pet Stress-Free
If your pet tends to get anxious, you might want to try anxiety wraps. These wraps apply pressure to your dog’s torso, which will reduce your pup’s anxiety. It will feel just like a reassuring hug!
Help Your Pet Relax with CBD Oil
Have you heard about CBD oil’s incredible health benefits for pets? This natural remedy can even be used to relieve anxiety!
Consider giving your pet CBD oil. It might keep your four-legged friend calm and relaxed instead of stressed and anxious while traveling.
Check out our post on CBD oil to learn more about this amazing remedy.
Make Your Pet Comfortable on the Journey
If your pet will be traveling inside a crate, don’t overload the crate with toys. This will make it difficult for your pet to move.
But that doesn’t mean you should leave all the toys at home. Bring one along that will keep your pet occupied.
Cut Back on Pet Chow
Eating less may prevent digestive issues that are caused by stress. Consider giving your pet fewer meals on traveling day. The only meal that needs to be skipped is the one right before you leave.
Choose to Drive
If you are looking to cut costs, skip the airlines and drive your car. This is much cheaper than flying with pets.
Avoid Hotels That Charge Too Much for Pets
Try to find a hotel that doesn’t charge an additional pet fee. Or look for a hotel that charges a one-time pet fee, rather than a nightly fee.
But keep in mind that a nightly fee might be more cost-effective if you aren’t staying in the same hotel for longer than a night or two.
In Conclusion
Now that you’ve learned how to travel with pets, are you ready to start planning your vacation? Then check out these 6 pet-friendly cities!
And don’t forget to take a look at our new app, letsps Travel. It makes traveling with your pet so much easier!