Traveling is a great way to change the environment, relax your body, soul and “reboot”. Every journey, even the smallest one, allows you to know yourself, discover unknown facets in yourself, meet new people and recharge with a lot of emotions.
But all this can be overshadowed by travel—related chores – buying tickets, finding accommodation, making a route, etc. The situation is especially complicated if you go on a trip with an animal. In this case, the preparation of rest should be approached even more thoroughly. Here are at least 5 important points to pay attention to.
Pet’s condition
Before you start making a travel itinerary, buying tickets and packing your bags, make sure that your pet is ready to travel. Isn’t he too young or, conversely, elderly? Does he have any health problems? Are there any contraindications?
For example, animals of some breeds — with flattened muzzles, for example, Persian cats or pugs — tolerate air travel worse. They may develop oxygen deficiency or fever. Therefore, such a journey will be difficult and even deadly for them.
If your pet is in a “risk group”, consider an alternative route or go on a trip without it. During your absence, you can leave a four-legged friend at a special hotel or with friends/relatives. It’s better than putting his life in danger!
Transportation rules
If you are sure that your pet is ready to travel, it’s time to worry about the rules of transportation. Different carrier companies may have their own rules on this, so you should not focus on general information. Usually, you can get acquainted with the conditions of transportation of animals on the website of one or another airline.
Besides, a lot depends on the country you are going to. For example, in France, you can not take animals under 3 months old with you, and in Parrots, pigeons and chickens cannot be brought to Saudi Arabia. In some countries, quarantine is provided for animals, and for a long time. Therefore, if you are going on a short trip, it is pointless to take an animal with you in this case.
With train trips, everything is a little easier: a pet can ride in the same compartment with the owner, if other passengers do not mind. Otherwise, you will need to buy the compartment in full and get a special ticket for the tailed tourist. However, before you travel, take a look at the website of the carrier company and read the detailed rules on this matter.
Preparation of documents
One of the most important points in preparing for a trip with an animal is paperwork, vaccination and chipping. Without a vaccination or some kind of certificate, the pet may simply not be missed. Therefore, it is recommended to contact the clinic in advance and find out exactly what procedures you need to undergo in order to cross the border. Usually in such cases, a vaccination is required, made no earlier than a year, but also no later than a month before the trip, a chip and a veterinary passport.
It is possible that the animal may need some kind of “special” vaccination, depending on the country where you are going. It will also not be superfluous to treat the pet from various parasites at least a few days before departure.
Three days before the “X” date, you need to get a certificate from the clinic allowing you to take the animal abroad. Find out in advance exactly what is required to receive it — you may need additional documents or some kind of analysis.
Collecting things
At first glance, it seems that it is much easier for a pet to pack things than to pack his own suitcase. However, it is important not to forget anything! Of the medicines should be taken:
- antidiarrheal medications;
- eye and ear drops;
- disinfection spray;
- bandages;
- medications that your pet will need specifically (if there are any diseases).
Scissors, tongs for removing ticks and a thermometer will not be superfluous on the road. Take food and a bowl for water, snacks for a snack and a pet’s favorite toy. You may also need a collar, leash, muzzle or warm clothes — it depends on where and with whom you are going.
Let’s go!
When all the documents are ready, the vaccinations are put down, and the things are folded, feel free to hit the road! And best of all, do it in advance. Be at the airport at least a couple of hours before departure — registration of an animal can take a long time, especially during the tourist season.
Remember that it is not recommended to feed your pet 4-6 hours before the trip. But you can and should give water, so make sure that it is at hand.
If your pet is active enough, you can give him a sedative, but before that, be sure to consult with a veterinarian.
If you follow all the recommendations and prepare for the trip in advance, it will be easy and relaxed! Both you and your pet will get the most out of traveling together. Be sure of this!
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