In many cases, we have to bring Fluffy or Fido along for the ride when we are traveling or moving. However, this can become a tricky situation, especially since taking a long trip with an animal involve so much more than putting your pet in the car and driving away. With the help of the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA), we’ve compiled a list of tips to help you make your big journey go much smoother for you and your pet! Check out our top tips below:
1. If you’re moving, ask your veterinarian to recommend another good pet doctor in your new town. Vets are great sources of information and have the best interest of your pet in mind.
2. In case of an emergency, it’s always a good idea to have your veterinarian’s phone number handy. Even if you’ve moved and had to switch vets, keep the old doctor’s number in your list of contacts in case they need more information about your pet.
3. Always travel with your pet’s medical records, especially if your furry friend has a troubled medical history.
4. If you know that your pet already has a medical problem, take a copy of the medical records along with you. Make sure your furry traveling companion gets a full check-up from the doctor before embarking on any journey. It never hurts to be prepared!
5. If your pet is taking medication, be sure to have plenty medicine on-hand for the trip. Veterinarians can’t fill out a prescription without having a previous patient-doctor relationship. That means if you need emergency medication, your pet will need to first be examined by a new doctor, which can be costly and time-consuming.
6. If your pet is on a special diet, purchase an extra supply of food in case you can’t find his or her favorite brand on the road.
7. Just like people, pets need first aid kits on the road too! While basic first aid is not a real substitute for actual medical care, having a few handy first aid tools around can potentially save your pet’s life.
8. If you can’t take your pet around with you and are thinking of using a boarding kennel, check out the American Boarding Kennel Association to find your pet a (temporary) good home while you’re away.
9. If you are planning on taking your pet on a plane, call the airline in advance and see how they can accommodate your traveling animal. Some airlines allow animals in the cabin, but you will first need to buy a special airline crate that fits snugly under the seats.
10. Learn more about your new surroundings. Your vet will be able to tell you if your new home has a high incidence of Lyme or heartworm disease, or any specific medications that your pet will need to quickly adapt to the environment.
The last thing you need during a move or vacation is one more thing to worry about! So, make sure to have your pet’s medication and health records on hand before you head off!
