Traveling someplace far from home is a much-needed getaway in this busy life. From being overdosed with a smoothie shake of meetings, deadlines, and work hours united, we all deserve a vacation.
However, pet owners have to give it a thought or two before leaving for a vacation that's not in their backyard. But with the rise of pet-friendly traveling, it's not impossible anymore.
In this article, we'll help you with everything you need to know before leaving for an adventure on the land, sea, or by whatever means you're just getting out of your home.
Traveling with Fur Ball
Let's take Poodle, for example (Because I own one, too. He's my adorable travel partner!). They are known to be an energetic breed who loves to be around their pet parents. As someone incredibly attached to their furbaby, why not enjoy a vacation with them?
Standard or miniature, you can tag your Moyen Poodle along with you. With precise planning and preparation for your trip, you can have a safe and enjoyable time with your dog. Following these tips can ensure more memories around the world with your pup.
Ask Your Vet
First and foremost, ask your vet if your pup is healthy and capable of traveling. As much as you might want to go on a trip with your Poodle, you don't want to put their health in danger.
Make sure they attend their routine vet check and see if their microchip is still in place. All dogs have their charms and health risk. Similarly, Poodles are prone to bone disorders, so ensure that this travel is safe for them as much as it is for you.
There are more things to add to Poodle's checklist before finalizing your plan. These are;
- Medicine and vaccine reports come in handy if you're traveling across the country
- Pack medications for your Poodle in your handbag
- Keep treats with you at all times
- First aid kit consisting of a gauze pad, baby aspirin, and antibiotic cream
- Pack enough food for them, so you don't waste half the vacation finding the same one in stores
- Carry your water to prevent your Poodle's upset tummy
- Plastic bags or scooper for puppy's rest times
- Bring their favorite toy or blanket from home to not let them get overwhelmed in new places.
These are a few handy tips to look for, whether it's a land trip or an air. Let's dig deep into this guide to know more.
Traveling By Car
A car travels with your Poodle is the easiest if you plan right. You can decide your route and make a stop whenever.
- Take practice trips. Sit with them in the car to let them know your car is a safe place, or go for a short drive with them.
- For your Poodle's safety, don't let them loose and jump inside the car. Get them in a crate with limited movements.
- Using a crate isn't an option for you? Choose a dog seat belt or a dog car seat.
- Stop for bathroom breaks and stretches.
- Prevent your Poodle from road sickness by keeping an empty stomach but hydrated.
- Provide proper ventilation, especially during summer.
Never leave your dog unattended in the car. Always leave a family member behind with them.
Flying to your Destination
Flying on a plane with your pet may be complicated, with many things to consider. From finding an airline with pet-friendly policies to keeping them calm throughout the flight, it's vital to know the details about your flight in advance.
- Ask your vet if it's healthy for your Poodle to travel, keeping the changing temperatures in mind.
- Your miniature Poodle can fit in a tiny crate to accommodate beneath your seat in the cabin.
- If your Poodle is traveling via cargo, ask the vet. Poodles get exposed to very high temperatures and noise in the cargo plane, and most experts advise against it.
There are a few more things to do before leaving for your flight.
- Reserve for your pet too. Most airlines allow a definite number of pets on a first-come, first-serve basis.
- Check the airline's size requirements.
- Inquire about extra fees. Many airlines charge additional fees for pets.
- Get an airline-approved crate, wooden or plastic, in most cases.
- Asses if your pet is allowed in the airplane. All airlines have different pet policies.
Before getting your tickets, get your pet for a vet visit. Dog's health certificates, no more than ten days old, are required by the airline service.
Buses or Train travels
Although small dogs are allowed on public transport (if any, otherwise there's a no-dog policy), you can face difficulty traveling with your Standard Poodle. Here are a few things to know before traveling with your baby Poodle.
- Get a pet carrier that is well-ventilated and leakproof
- The Poodle must be eight weeks old with a sound temperament
- Meets the required weight for traveling
- Most bus or train services charge extra for pets
- Check for your local bus service, if they allow dogs, and ask for their pet policies
The same goes for a cruise vacation. Inquire if you can board with your pet. You can reward good behavior with treats to encourage quiet and calm manners during your trips.
Other Tips to Follow
Apart from choosing a means to travel, decide on where you stay. Find a hotel that is dog friendly and provides comfortable accommodations.
Also, there's so much more than walking in parks with your dog. Explore the attractions where you're going and ask if pets are allowed.
An easier option is using BringFido to search for pet-friendly activities or places around the town. You can even ask your tourism office for a dog-friendly guide, or follow local travel groups on Facebook, to know more.
If your dog isn't allowed in any place or the location is too crowded for your Poodle, search for a nearby dog sitter or leave them in the hotel room and alert the front desk.
It's a Vacation
Finally, never forget that it's a vacation and you need to stress less. A calm owner has a peaceful pet. Traveling can be difficult with a pet, but if you're too anxious or worried, your dog will sense this and become anxious.
A calming spray or some herbs can manage your pet's anxiety; you can learn more about ''how to manage an anxious dog'' here. However, some dog breeds prefer staying at home with a dog sitter than traveling.
Now you're ready to pack your bags and hit the road with your canine partner. Don't forget to stay safe and enjoy your getaway. Have a PAWfect vacation!