Travelling with your pet can be a stressful situation for both you and your pet. It is not something that either of you are likely accustomed to, and proper planning is essential to prepare you both. Fortunately, there are a number of things that you can do to make sure that you and your pet are comfortable and safe for your upcoming trip.
When you are planning to fly with your pet, there are a number of things to consider before you do so. The first thing you need to do is to check with the airline to make sure that your pet is allowed. You would be surprised at the number of airlines that are now banning pets on flights. Call ahead to prevent a major problem at the airport.
If they airline allows the pet to ride with you, bring along a nice care kit. This can include some tap water from home, as well as some treats that your pet is used to. A familiar toy or even a sock or tshirt with your scent on it can go a long ways towards calming your pet.
If you are travelling out of country, consider bringing some dog or cat food from home. Often, you can not find the same types of dog or cat foods overseas. This can lead to your pet refusing to eat and getting sick. This can easily be avoided by bringing along their familiar foods.
Be sure to phone ahead and make sure that the hotel you are staying at allow pets. It is horrible to arrive at a hotel so far from home only to find out that they do not allow pets. It happens so make sure that you ask ahead of time.
For both the hotel and the flight, make sure you inquire about the rates, fees, and requirements where pets are concerned. Many of these places charge rather stiff fees for pets and/or deposits. It is a good idea to know these things ahead of time to ensure that you are both willing and able to comply. You do not want to be making these adjustments or changes at the last minute.
Once you arrive at your destination, are there any special pet rules such as where they have to be walked? Do the dogs or cats have to stay in the room at all times? How do the maids handle coming in to clean the rooms and so forth? If you are not there, do you have to take your pet with you at all times? All of these questions are good to ask before you actually arrive.
When you do get to the hotel, be sure to set up some type of comfort area for your pet. The pet is sure to be stressed from the travel and the newness of the location. Do what you can to spend plenty of time with them to let them know they are safe and secure. Pets get very stressed when they are removed from their routines. This is especially true if they do not travel often. Spend plenty of time ensuring that they are comfortable and content.
