Things to Know Before Travelling with Pets: Part 2

We love travelling and can’t wait to get back at it! But what to do with our pets?  Lockdown has meant that our pets have grown accustomed to having us around more often, and it may not be so easy to separate from our furry friends when vacation time comes around.  If you are hesitant to leave your pet whilst you travel, or you need to travel with your pet for other reasons, make sure you do your homework.  In Part 1, we discussed legal requirements such as vaccinations, documents and health certificates, but we also need to keep our pet’s comfort in mind.

Consider these points when travelling with pets:

Pre-travel Veterinary Visits

Before you travel with your pet, make sure you inform your vet of your intentions so that they can make sure that your furry friend is fit enough to fly as well as to provide any health certificates required or fill in the clinical examination section of your Pet Passport.  It’s important to do this a few days before travel, so that the information is as up to date as possible.

Make sure your pet is up to date with all vaccinations and ask your vet for the proper documentation to prove this.

Ask your vet for a prescription of your pet’s medication to take with you, and make sure to stock up for the duration of the trip.

Like us, our pets can get a little dizzy or nauseous when travelling. Consult with your vet regarding motion sickness in animals and how best to tackle it.

Ownership

If you are travelling with pets, make sure they’re yours!  It sounds obvious but according to EU regulation, a pet must only travel with its owners unless written permission is given by the owner.  If someone else is travelling with your pet, you need to be reunited with your furry friend within 5 days of its arrival.

Protected Animals

Although you may be travelling with pets and domesticated animals, certain species may be considered protected or endangered.  You will need special certificates and permits by contacting CITES.

Pet Insurance

If certain things don’t go according to plan when travelling with your pet, like your pet falling ill, insurance can be a lifesaver.  It’s a good idea to have pet insurance when travelling and to keep the policy information handy.  You can get an extension on your Laferla Pet Insurance to cover travelling with pets.

Identification

Since your pet might be in a new environment, it’s only natural that your pet might feel angsty and can be easily scared away.  Keep a tag on your pet’s collar with his identification, just in case he runs off.

Veterinary Clinics Abroad

Before you travel, save your vet’s contact number to get in touch with them if needed.  Research veterinary clinics in your arrival destination so they are handy in case of emergencies.  It is also useful to keep a copy of your pet’s medical conditions and medications, as well as pet insurance details, to give to your new vet.

Carriers

When choosing a carrier for your pet, besides making sure that it is within the size requirements required by your airline, make sure that the carrier has enough ventilation for your pet to breathe properly. It must be strong and sturdy enough to withstand the weight of your pet.  Choose a carrier that has enough space for your pet to sit, stand, lie down and turn around in.  It should also be waterproof to avoid spillage of little accidents, and most importantly, make sure it closes properly for any escape attempts by the little Houdinis.

Some weeks before you are set to travel, let your pet get familiar with the carrier so that he will already be accustomed to it when the day comes.  Put treats in the carrier for your pet to associate it with positivity, take him out in it and always provide positive reinforcement.

Natural Needs

We all have to go, but whilst we may have a bathroom in our cabin, our pets do not.  Speak to your vet about when best to feed your pet or give it water, although it is usually recommended not to give your pet too much food and water.  Carry some treats and water with you, a waste bag as well as check for animal relief areas in the airport if any.

Travelling with Pets: Practical Tips

New environments can be scary! Give your pet time to adjust to the new environment by introducing them to new things gradually.  This includes meeting new people, as well as trying new foods.

If you are travelling to a country with a different climate than yours, or to avoid exhaustion and shock, travel during times that are not excessively hot or cold.  For example, if you are travelling to a hot country, travelling by night to avoid excessive heat will help your pet acclimatise.

When looking at flights, were possible avoid those that have many connections or long layovers.

For more information or to extend your Laferla Pet Insurance policy, get in touch with Laferla today.