Anyone who has a pet will understand how stressful it is traveling with pets However, there are a variety of methods that can be a more enjoyable travel experience for everyone.
Your cat can travel with you
The first thing you need to think about is the right carrier ensure that it is sturdy and spacious enough for your cat.
Second, make sure your cat is identified should they get out of their carriers. The best solution is to make sure your cat is microchipped since it is a way to identify them. If it’s the first time your cat has made a journey , then a collar and tag should suffice until the microchip is placed.
Once all of these are organized, the next difficult task is to get your cat in its carrier for travel – less to do than say! One of the best strategies in this regard is to place your cat backwards in the carrier when it’s an open-top carrier, to ensure that they aren’t able to see the direction they’re heading to.
Introduce your cat to the carrier, and maybe put it away for a couple of days prior to the time they travel in order to make them comfortable with the idea of.
After your cat has been in the car, make sure the cat is secure and the pet carrier doesn’t move since this can cause distress to your pet. It might be worthwhile putting the seatbelt in into the handles of the pet carrier and wrapping it in blanket.
Walking with your dog
Be sure to have the right safety harness for your seat or cage your pet to travel in, since some dogs have less anxiety when they feel secure inside the vehicle. The restraint techniques are also a way to keep other passengers inside the vehicle secure while traveling.
It is important that you are aware of regulations for wearing tags and collars, as well as the mandatory microchipping that became law on April 16, 2016. This is important when traveling when your dog is scared and attempts to flee prior to or after your trip.
For most dogs, the primary reason for them to get in a car is to make a visit to the vet which can be an extremely stressful experience for your pet. It is suggested to familiarize your dog and alter the relationship they have with the vehicle. In the beginning, you could allow your dog to stay in the car while it’s parked. Sit alongside your pet throughout the entire time the time, offering praise and/ treats. If they’re comfortable inside the vehicle, you can consider taking your dog out to the ocean or to the local park, so that they can learn that traveling in the car isn’t just going to the vet.
Be sure the entire experience is enjoyable for your pet.
Calming your pet
Pheromones
There are products that mimic the pheromone female dogs releases in order to calm her newborn puppies following birth. The most popular one is Adaptil. It comes in a spray which allows you to spray your car prior to your trip to ease the anxiety of your pet. For cats, there’s an item that mimics the feline facial pheromone known as Feliway that provides comfort to cats. This is available in a spray, and you can spray their car and their carrier prior to travel to lessen stress. Talk to your doctor for more information.
Car conditions
Certain pets can travel better when there’s cool air or relaxing music or sounds playing in the car. If you’re traveling with a pet, make sure that the windows are closed to much, as you do not wish your pet to poke his head through the windows since this could result in head injuries for your dog. Some dogs feel more secure in a crate , and often it’s better if the cage is secured.
Medication
Sometimes, regardless of how hard you attempt at calming your animal, they will require medication. If this happens then you must make contact with your vet to schedule a visit with a veterinarian about the issue.
Travel sickness
Everyone can be affected by travel sickness including dogs and cats. In most cases, it can be cured by regular short desensitisation trips making sure that the trip isn’t just about taking your pet to the vet or kennel, but also to the cattery. It might be worthwhile to start by making sure your pet isn’t eating an excessive amount of food for at least three hours prior to departure to decrease the possibility of vomiting in the course of travel. If your pet is still vomiting during travel, there are anti-sickness medications available from your veterinarian.
Hyperactivity
Do you have your pet’s favorite bonkers at home? Are they crying, whining and panting? They are showing symptoms of hyperactivity. If the above methods of calming have not worked, then contact your vet for help.
Finally
The eyes are on the road
Your focus should be on the road in all circumstances and not focused on what your pet might be doing. If you are able, it’s recommended to have another person around to keep your pet at ease.
Keep in mind that you’re not alone. You can get advice from your local vet clinic for ensuring a safe and peaceful trip for your pet regardless of where your journey may lead you.