Most of us love animals. The UK is a nation of pet lovers. Over a third of households have a dog and almost 30% have a cat. Owning a pet is magical, but it can be difficult if you love to travel or you spend time away due to work commitments. Taking good care of your furry friends is essential if you’re planning an overseas adventure with them or leaving them behind. In this guide, we’ll share some top pet care tips for travellers.
Preparing pets for travel
If you can’t bear the thought of leaving your canine companion at home, you’re planning a long trip, or you want your pet to be part of a far-flung adventure, preparation is key. Following some simple steps can help reduce stress, save time and effort and ensure a smooth journey.
The first thing to do before you travel is to make sure your pet is in good shape. Check their vaccinations are up to date, ensure you have any relevant medication and make sure they’re eating and drinking well. See your vet if you have any concerns about their health.
Stress is one of the most common concerns for owners who are travelling with animals. Anxiety can be an issue in many pets. Our pets are used to comfortable, familiar home environments. Noisy airports and stations, boats, trains and planes can cause pets to become anxious. It’s advisable to consult your vet before you arrange an overseas or long-distance journey. They will give you advice and they can also recommend products. You can also explore options like natural remedies by Hippo Health online and get tips from fellow pet owners. As well as using remedies to calm and soothe your pet, taking familiar objects, such as blankets and toys, is beneficial. Getting used to spending time in a crate or carrier can also make travelling less stressful.
On the day you travel, follow your pet’s normal routine as closely as possible and try to find opportunities for exercise and fresh air before you start your journey. Keep reassuring them and encourage them to relax.
Leaving pets at home
Taking pets away with you isn’t always a viable or practical option. If you’re leaving a pet at home, it’s important to make sure they’re well looked after.
The first step is to ask somebody to look after your pet or find a suitable facility, such as boarding kennels or a cattery. If you don’t have a friend, neighbour or family member you can rely on, you can choose between hiring a pet sitter or paying for pet accommodation. It’s always beneficial to research thoroughly and ask people you trust for recommendations. Local social media groups are brilliant resources. Once you have a shortlist, you can contact people, find out about services and prices and check reviews.
Changes in their environment and routine can be scary and unsettling for pets. Before you move your pet to a different house or a boarding facility, it may be beneficial to use remedies to prevent or reduce anxiety. It’s also wise to leave instructions for the person or people caring for your pet. It’s particularly important to be as detailed as possible if your pet has a health condition or dietary requirements, they are prone to anxiety, or they get nervous around other people or animals.
There are many advantages to travelling, but it’s not always easy when you have a pet. Taking good care of your furry friend is essential whether you’re bringing them along for the ride or leaving them at home. This guide is designed to make planning trips as simple and stress-free as possible for you and your best friend.
