Travelling with your dog can be an exciting adventure, but it requires some planning to ensure a smooth journey for both you and your dog. Whether you're embarking on a road trip, flying to a new destination, or simply heading to Eastcott Vets for a check-up, preparing your dog adequately is key to a stress-free experience. Here, we share some top tips to make sure your dog is travel-ready and comfortable throughout your journey.
Schedule a pre-travel visit
Before any trip, it's crucial to ensure your dog is in good health. Book an appointment with Eastcott Vets for a comprehensive health check. This visit is essential to confirm that your dog is fit to travel and to discuss any concerns you might have. During this visit, Eastcott Vets can provide:
- Vaccinations: Ensure your dog is up to date with their vaccinations, which are essential for protecting them from diseases, especially when travelling to new areas.
- Annual health certificates: Many travel destinations require an animal health certificate from your vet, certifying that your dog is healthy and free from contagious diseases.
- Microchipping: If your dog isn't already microchipped, consider getting it done. A microchip is a permanent form of identification that can help reunite you with your pet if you get separated.
Book an appointment for smooth travelling with your dog at Eastcott Vets.
Just like you pack your bags, your dog needs their travel essentials too. Here’s a checklist to make sure you have everything your dog might need:
- Food and water: Bring enough food for the trip, along with water and a portable bowl. Stick to your dog's regular diet to avoid digestive issues.
- Medications: If your dog takes any medications, pack them along with a copy of the prescription.
- Comfort items: Bring your dog's favourite blanket, toy, or bed to provide a sense of familiarity and comfort.
- Leash and Collar: Ensure your dog has a sturdy collar with an ID tag that includes your contact information.
Training and acclimatisation
To make the journey smoother, it's helpful to acclimatise your dog to travel conditions beforehand. Some tips for doing this include:
- Car rides: Take your dog on short car rides to get them used to being in the vehicle. Gradually increase the length of these trips.
- Crate training: If your dog will be travelling in a crate, make sure they are comfortable spending time in it. Place the crate in your home and let your dog explore it, using treats and positive reinforcement to create a positive association.
- Socialisation: Expose your dog to different environments and experiences. This can help reduce anxiety when encountering new places during your travels.
On the day of travel
On the day of your trip, a few final preparations can ensure everything goes smoothly:
- Exercise: Give your dog a good exercise session before the journey. A tired dog is likely to be more relaxed and less anxious during travel.
- Feeding: Feed your dog a light meal a few hours before departure. Avoid feeding right before the trip to prevent motion sickness.
- Comfort Stops: If you're driving, plan for regular stops to allow your dog to stretch, relieve themselves, and have a drink of water.
In-flight considerations
If you're flying with your dog, additional preparations are necessary:
- Airline regulations: Check with the airline for their specific requirements regarding pet travel. Different airlines have varying rules for pet carriers, in-cabin travel, and cargo holds.
- Carrier comfort: Ensure your dog’s carrier is airline-approved and spacious enough for them to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably. Line the carrier with a familiar blanket.
- Health certificate: Most airlines require a health certificate issued by a vet within a certain timeframe before the flight.
Learn more about animal health certificates here.
Post-travel tips
After a long journey, your dog might need some time to adjust to their new environment. There are a number of ways you can do this:
- Exploration: Allow your dog to explore their new surroundings at their own pace. Supervise them closely to ensure their safety.
- Routine: Try to maintain your dog's regular routine for feeding, walks, and playtime to help them settle in quickly.
- Visit your nearest vet: If you're staying for an extended period, it's a good idea to locate a local vet near your destination in case of emergencies.
Seek travel essentials for your dog
Travelling with your dog can be a delightful experience with the right preparation. By following these tips and consulting with Eastcott Vets for pre-travel health checks and advice, you can ensure your dog enjoys a safe and comfortable journey. Remember, a well-prepared dog means a happier, stress-free trip for both of you. Bon voyage!
