Guide to Travelling with Pets

Your pet's well-being is a priority, especially when travelling. While taking your pet along on trips is ideal, it requires careful planning and preparation. VVP Travel has created a comprehensive travel guide for pet owners to ensure a smooth journey. Whether travelling by plane or car, our guide outlines essential precautions to take before and during your trip. 

Planes 

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Do your Research

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It would be unwise to take your pet with you on a trip without knowing airline policies. Although there are standardised procedures, different airlines have different rules when it comes to the transportation of pets. While some are more accommodating, others are stringent. Make sure you read all policies and rules so that you know what your pet is likely to experience once the flight commences. It is useful to know, however, that all airlines have the right to refuse any animal on a flight if it is deemed a flight risk or threat to the aircraft or passengers.    

Know the Health Condition of your Pet

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The general rule regarding airliners is that pets will not board any flight if they are too old, young, ill or injured. Certain dog breeds which include snub-nose and long-nose breeds are also often rejected because of difficulty breathing in the air. If not immunised, your pet will be rejected. Some airlines require that owners bring along health history documents so verification can be done to lessen risk. 

Make Arrangements in the Event of Emergencies

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Should your pet for any reason get lost or board the wrong flight, have emergency contact details of your airline. They can track where your pet has gone and will make the necessary arrangements to return your pet to you. If your pet gets seriously injured, make sure you know the location of the nearest animal hospital. 

Cars 

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Get your dog used to travelling long distance 

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Do this by taking your dog on shorter road trips so that they get used to being in the car for long hours. You don’t want your pet to start acting out, potentially causing danger to you while driving. 

Purchase a Pet Car Seat 

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Even if your pet is well-trained and prepared for the trip, pets will be pets. They are bound to get excited or scared on the road. This can cause your pet to move erratically, potentially getting hurt and damaging the vehicle in the process. Although your car ought not to be a prison, there has to be designated seating. It should include a strapping belt and enough space for your pet to sit, lay and stand within a limited range. 

When and How to Feed your Pet

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The night before the trip, be sure to feed your pet a light meal. Pack your pet’s regular food for the trip, and feed it at regular intervals and make. However, when feeding your pet, ensure that it eats when the car is at the stop. This prevents your pet from motion sickness. 

Pack for yourself and your Pet

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Please don’t forget to pack for your pet. In addition to packing food and water, make sure you pack important health documents, pet medication, feeding bowls, poop scoops and disposable bags. Make sure it has enough toys to play with along with having a pet first-aid kit.