With the holiday season coming up quickly, you may have some driving planned – over the river and through the woods to Grandma’s house, or something of that sort. If it’s more than a quick (low mileage) trip, or will include staying overnight, here’s some planning tips to ensure your furry family is safe, secure, and happy as they travel with you.

First things first – have you seen us recently? Are there any health issues that need addressed, prescriptions that are close to needing refilled, vaccines that need updated, or calming solutions/medications that make your pet have a more enjoyable journey? Are health certificates needed if you’re leaving the country? So you have a more enjoyable journey, plan ahead to avoid that last minute stress!

And – does your pet need microchipped? If your pet gets lost while traveling, a microchip is one of the best ways to identify them when they are found – and get them back to you! If they are microchipped, is all your information up to date with the manufacturer of the chip so you can be contacted? Since we’re talking identification, if your pet has personalized tags on their collar, is the information on the tags correct?

Travel carriers – will you be using one on your trip? If so, there should be enough room in it that your pet can fully stand up, turn around, and comfortably lie down. You should be able to secure it to the vehicle so rapid changes in direction don’t cause it to move around. It should also be well ventilated, and of course have a cushy blanket or pad on the floor! And it’s also best to familiarize your pet with the carrier in advance of the trip – no need to add to departure time stress (for you or for them) by making the first time they see it is when you’re trying to get on the road! Putting it out a week or so in advance of the trip and putting a favorite blanket or toy in it will entice them to explore the carrier and get familiar with it.

Not using a travel carrier? That’s ok – a seatbelt harness is a good option for smaller pets. The bigger pups can travel in the back of a well-ventilated vehicle, and you may want to consider a barrier to keep them in one area of the vehicle instead of having them try to climb into your lap while you’re driving!

You’ve packed a bag for yourself – remember to pack another one for your furry travel companion! Here’s a few things to consider taking with you (depending on trip length):

• Food and water bowls (collapsible saves space!)

• Enough of their food (avoid tummy issues!) for the trip plus a little extra

• Leash and harness

• Waste bags/litter pads for bathroom breaks

• Up to date vaccine record and a health certificate if needed. Note – we can also email you the complete medical records in case they’re needed.

• Medications and/or prescriptions that will or may be needed – especially if your pet needs meds to travel!

• Toys, favorite blanket, and other comfort items

• First aid kit for pets (easily obtained from Amazon or a local pet supply store)

Even the best traveling animals can feel a little “off” when traveling, and they may not want to eat or drink as much as they usually do at home. It is important, though, that during long trips they stay fed and hydrated. Smaller meals and fresh water, offered more frequently than normal, will help. Also – probably not a good idea to feed them immediately before starting out, as it may cause some discomfort and/or nausea.

Which brings us to – motion sickness! To help make the trip more pleasant for both you and your pet, we have a few ideas to help reduce the risk. Prior to the trip, it helps if they go on shorter rides with you to get accustomed to the sights, sounds, and smells of being in a moving vehicle. When on the trip, make frequent stops so your pet can stretch their legs, drink some water, and have a bathroom break. If you’re concerned that it will still be an issue, talk to us about possible anti-nausea medications for your trip.

Are you staying overnight on your way to or from your destination? You can locate pet friendly accommodations at website directories like BringFido (bringfido.com) and PetsWelcome (petswelcome.com).

Remember how your pets will pick up on your feelings? Well…if travel stresses you a bit, they’re going to stress right along with you! And – the same things that may calm you will calm them. A soft, soothing voice, a comforting rub on the back, and familiar “happy” scents (like pheromone sprays) can help. Comforting your pet will most likely also help you to feel better!

We hope that we’ve offered some tips that will help, or given you something to think about. Traveling with pets can be a great experience with just a bit of planning. Safe travels to you and yours!