What You Need To Know Before Going On A Road Trip With Pets

Photo Credit: True Carnivores

Pet owners who love to travel often face the situation where they have to leave their beloved animals at home. You are constantly thinking about him—from the moment you part with him woefully until you are back from your trip. If you can resonate with this, it is time to plan for a trip that your furry one can finally join.

For those thinking of going on a solo trip, having a dog as your travel companion can actually make you feel safer when you are going back to your hostel at night. Besides, not many people can resist petting a dog so this is a sure proof way of making some friends along the way!

However, pet owners should know the basic responsibilities involved when bringing their pets on a trip. Here’s What You Need To Know Before Going On A Road Trip With Pets.

Photo Credit: BBC
#1 PETS NEED THEIR LUGGAGE TOO

After you are done with your own luggage, do not forget about your pet’s! Whatever your pet requires at home, he will need it outside too. Essentials such as their water bowl, medication, harness and pet food should be on your packing list.

You should also include your pet’s favourite toys so he has something familiar to play with and wouldn’t feel homesick.

#2 NOT ALL PLACES ARE PET-FRIENDLY

While the world is starting to become more pet-friendly, you cannot assume that everywhere you are intending to go accept animals—yes, even if it is outdoors.

Indoor areas such as restaurants, cafes and museums can be rather strict on their no pets policy so it is advisable to do some research on pet-friendly places of interest before you go.

#3 LOOK OUT FOR HIDDEN COSTS AT PET-FRIENDLY HOTELS

Bear in mind that most pet-friendly hotels offer this service at an additional cost, ranging from a few bucks to a few hundred dollars. This depends on the kind of hotel or comfort you are looking for.

There are usually other conditions to consider as well such as the size of your pet or a limit to the number pets you can bring into the room.

Photo Credit: Great Pet Health

#4 BRING YOUR PET OUT BEFORE YOU TRAVEL

You may not have thought about this but it is important to bring your pet out before you travel so it would not come as a rude shock to him. It is generally not a good idea for your pet to be in a moving car for hours if he is not used to it as it causes tremendous stress.

Photo Credit: Pet Circle
#5 LIMIT FOOD INTAKE

As pets are prone to motion sickness too, it is best to limit food intake before the trip to avoid an upset stomach. What you should do is to give him a light snack when you are taking a break from driving.

Photo Credit: Huffington Post

#6 NEVER LEAVE YOUR PET ALONE

You should NEVER leave your pet unattended. This is one golden rule to be kept at all times as pets are unpredictable. Also, never leave your dog in a parked car as your dog will get dehydration from the warm temperatures inside the enclosed area.