Who doesn’t love to travel? Exploring the great heights of mountains, scuba diving into the depth of the deep blue sea, or simply soaking in the beauty of nature, all of these contribute to the adrenaline rush and recharging oneself with energy and freshness.
I am also a great travel enthusiast, but having a pet myself, going on a vacation always involves a great dilemma about leaving Snowy behind at home. And if I ever do manage to leave him behind, the vacation days are always filled with sad and anxious moments and I yearn to go back home and be with him.
There are so many pet owners out there, who I am sure, feel just like me. You can’t take them with you; neither can you leave them behind. It is a tight spot that is almost impossible to escape.
However, the picture is changing, albeit slowly. After choosing to travel with Snowy a couple of times I have realized that there are now more pet-friendly options for traveling and I no longer have to look into Snowy’s sad eyes watching me while leaving home.
My experience of traveling with Snowy has made me realise that planning a pet-friendly trip requires a lot of serious considerations. Right from carrying the required documents to choosing the proper mode of transport, the to-do list is extensive but it is worth taking the trouble since you can travel with your fur baby. For me, it’s always very exciting and adventurous to travel with Snowy and the vacation becomes a lot more fun for not only me but also the rest of my family.
If you too wish to take your pets on a vacation, here is a small guide with some important tips for enjoying smooth and enjoyable holidays with your four-legged companion.
HEALTH CHECK-UP BEFORE LEAVING: Before your trip, take your pet for a check-up with a vet to see whether they are healthy and in a position to be taken on a holiday. This is especially important if your pet has a pre-existing condition that you are aware of and needs medication for comfort on the road. Also, be sure to carry the Veterinarian’s phone number in case of any emergency during the holidays.
PET VACCINATION REPORT: Ask your vet for a copy of vaccination records, and any other important medical information, as you might need them while traveling.
ID TAG: Your pet should have a collar with an identification tag which contains your address and phone number written clearly.
PORTABLE CARRIER OR A TRAVEL CAGE: Most buses, trains and planes ask to keep the pet inside a travel cage or a carrier. It is always better to buy the cage in advance so that the pet gets used to living inside it and does not experience any anxiety during the journey.
PET PASSPORT FOR INTERNATIONAL TRIPS: Considering taking your pet abroad? You might need to get your pet a passport just like yours for international trips.
IF YOU ARE TRAVELING BY AIR: Visit the website of the airlines to check the restrictions or requirements they have. During the flight, your pet needs to stay in the pet crate. Small dog carriers are available in an array of styles to keep the dogs safe. If your dog is a larger breed, then he will have to ride in the cargo area.
GET A PET INSURANCE PLAN : Pet insurance will be a great benefit as it will help cover any healthcare costs that may happen during your trip with your furry friend. This is important for the pet as well as the owner.
PACK ENOUGH FOOD : You need to pack enough food for the journey and your stay unless you’re sure you can get the right kind of pet food at your destination.
KEEP YOUR PET HYDRATED: Pets can get dehydrated easily while traveling. Make sure to carry some extra water. Another way is to feed them wet food which would keep them hydrated while traveling by bus or car.
PACK NECESSARY MEDICATIONS AND PRESCRIPTIONS: If your pet has any medicines that they take regularly, make sure to include them in your pet’s travel bag.
CARRY YOUR PET’S FAVOURITE TOYS, BED, BOWL AND BLANKET: Don’t forget to carry your pet’s favorite toys, bowl and blankets for the vacation. This will help to make your travel destination feel like a home. Bringing their favorite items from home makes pets feel more at ease when they arrive at an unfamiliar destination.
MAP A STOPPAGE WHILE TRAVELING BY CAR: Your dogs might need a break while traveling by car. It could be a bathroom break or a food stop. It will help reduce your pet’s anxiety and will make the journey easier.
CHOOSE A PET-FRIENDLY ACCOMMODATION: Look for pet-friendly hotels when booking accommodation for your trip. There are plenty of hotels that offer pet daycare facilities with a concise pet policy. You can also call them and ask any specific questions that you may have. Also, check the surrounding area of your accommodation for pet-friendly restaurants and parks. Many of the hotels from the Taj group are pet friendly, such as Fishermans Cove in Chennai, Taj Srinagar to name a few.
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