Travelling with dogs and cats can be fun and rewarding, but doing it safely takes a little extra planning. "Always be prepared" isn't just a good motto; it's good advice.
These tips will make travelling with dogs and cats easier — for you and for them.
Travelling with Dogs and Cats?
Whether it's a trip to the local pet shop or an intercity journey, there are a few things to sort out before you leave that will help both you and your companion arrive safe and sound.
One thing to keep in mind: these tips are geared more toward long-distance travel with dogs and cats. Even so, some of them are incredibly useful for day trips too.
Before You Set Off
1. Visit the Vet
Depending on where you're going, your companion may need to be up to date on all their vaccinations. Staying current on vaccines also helps in veterinary emergencies.
Call your destination in advance to ask what the requirements are, then talk to your vet. Schedule a check-up along with any needed shots to make sure the animal is healthy enough to travel. Always make sure you carry the necessary paperwork with you.
2. Get an ID Tag
If you decide to travel by car, bus or train, your companion should wear a sturdy collar with a tag carrying your mobile number and home address.
Check the requirements of your city or destination; some places require animals to wear rabies vaccination tags at all times in addition to ID tags.
3. Pack a Bag
You wouldn't leave home without your essentials — and we shouldn't leave home without packing for our furry friends either. Keep a separate bag for everything your dog or cat will need during the journey.
Here are a few good things to have on hand:
- A blanket or travel bed
- Towels to keep in the car in case of rain
- Cleaning wipes / paper towels for accidents
- Poo bags, plus extras (nervous animals need more)
- Two bowls, for food and water
- Two separate leads, in case one breaks or gets lost
- Treats and toys
- Pre-packed dry food in resealable bags, plus canned food (don't forget a can opener!)
- Any needed medication
- Bottled water
4. Pack the Records
Details are hard to remember in high-stress situations; having your animal's health records with you makes emergencies easier to handle.
When travelling with dogs and cats, remember to pack the following:
- Recent vaccination certificates signed by your vet
- Your regular vet's contact details
- Copies of any records for ongoing or current medical conditions
It's also a good idea to keep a current photo of the animal somewhere easy to reach — in the folder with the medical records, for instance.
5. Pack a First-Aid Kit
Do you carry an animal first-aid kit in your car? You should.
A basic kit includes essentials such as:
- Scissors
- Tweezers
- Bandages
- First-aid tape
- Sterile pads
- Cotton swabs
- Disposable gloves
Additional items can include hydrogen peroxide, styptic powder, wound disinfectant and triple antibiotic cream. Add a few clean hand towels for more serious injuries. Make sure you check the expiry dates on any medication and replace as needed.
6. Make an Emergency Plan
Let's face it: dog and cat emergencies can happen anytime, anywhere. Prepare for the unexpected by arming yourself with a list of veterinary clinics in or near your destination. Make sure you include a 24-hour vet!
If you're planning a long drive, look up the vets along your route. Make a list of each clinic's name, address and phone number — and don't forget to note their opening hours.
On the Road
You've been to the vet, got a brand-new collar and ID tags, packed the bags, prepared the first-aid kit and the medical records; all that's left is to hit the road with your best friend.
Heat: Vehicles get dangerously hot in warm weather. Always provide adequate shade and airflow to prevent overheating or dehydration. Never, ever leave an animal alone in a car; hot temperatures can be fatal, even with the windows cracked.
Hydration: Offer clean drinking water at regular intervals. Keep a collapsible travel bowl and a bottle of water in the car for easy access.
Toilet breaks: Some animals need more toilet breaks than others, so factor this in when planning your travel time. Watch for rest areas and other suitable stopping points along the way.
Exercise on the road: Like us, dogs need to stretch their legs on long journeys. Research rest stops and other places with clearly designated areas for them in advance. It goes without saying that you should only exercise animals that are comfortable in noisy, unfamiliar places. For nervous animals (or cats), look for quiet spots away from the main activity areas. Before opening the car doors, make sure harnesses, tags and leads are securely fastened.
A Few Final Tips
It may seem obvious, but never feed an animal a big meal before travelling. A light meal 3–4 hours before the journey is ideal.
Keep dogs secure in the vehicle using special harnesses that attach to the seat belts. While some dogs do fine with a seat belt, nervous dogs may feel safer travelling in a crate. Cats should always travel in a carrier — and it's essential to make sure it is secured to the seat with the seat belt.
Never let dogs travel in the open bed of a pickup truck.
Clear the vehicle of choking hazards and toxins. Some dogs and cats will eat anything — move any suspect objects out of your favourite scavenger's reach.