Planning for your Pet when Traveling

Aug 17, 2022 | Cats, Dogs, Travel

As the COVID-19 pandemic restrictions wind down and things open up, many people are taking trips again. During the pandemic there was an explosion of pet ownership. Now you may be wondering what to do with your beloved pet or how best to transport them safely. This blog should help address a few of those questions when planning for your pet when traveling and maybe a few you did not think of.

First, you want to make sure you have proper carriers or leashes for your pet. These should be new, if possible, and sturdily constructed. If Garfield makes a break for it when you stop, it will be very hard to find him again. You need to plan out hotels that are pet friendly. Also for dogs, like people, you need to plan out potty and water breaks. Don’t forget a water bottle and travel bowl, too!

If you are unable to take your pet with you, or need to board your pet at your vacation destination, you should research and find the best boarding facilities well in advance. This is especially important around the holidays as boarding facilities book up quickly. Each individual establishment has different requirements for boarding, from vaccines to fecal and heartworm testing. They also have different open hours that you’ll need to consider when planning flights and travel timelines. Whenever possible, take the time to visit the place and see how the animals are kept. Ask questions on how the animals are cared for – do they send you updates? What happens if an emergency occurs? What is their policy for check-in and check-out?

If your pet has anxiety or nausea when traveling, you may wish to visit your veterinarian. There are many ways we can help you and your pet to make this experience better. In some cases sedation may help. It is important that for these medications, as well as any chronic use or emergency medications, they are refilled well before you plan to travel. Most veterinarians ask for at least 24 hours to get medications refilled, and if it’s the first time your pet is receiving a medication, an exam may be required as well. Remember that if you have a veterinary need out of state, including a medication refill, your pet will need to be seen by a vet within that state.

Traveling out of state or internationally? Each state and country has different requirements, and you may need a Health Certificate in order to travel with your pet. Research the individual destinations and begin planning your pet’s vet visit for their health certificate needs as soon in advance as you can. You will need to know exactly what is required for where you travel. Only USDA accredited Veterinarians can issue Health Certificates for interstate and international travel. If you’re flying, be sure you check in with the specific airline requirements for pets traveling with you.

Each family and situation is different. A little planning can help ensure that you get the most out of your trip. Hopefully a few of these tidbits help makes that trip a little easier and less stressful.

– Dr. Ryan McKenna

For more information, contact our team at VETSS, a Charlottesville VA urgent care animal hospital!

A Summer Guide to Heat Stress and Heat Stroke for Dog Owners

As we get into summer and the temperature rises, it’s important to be aware of how the heat affects your pup. Please read below to recognize the signs of heat stress and know when you should seek veterinary care for your pet. I’m comfortable outside. Why is my dog so...

A Caring Guide to Planning for the Loss of Your Pet

Having pets is one of the most rewarding relationships a person can have. They provide us with humor, love, and lots of snuggles. With all pet families, however, there comes a time when we must say goodbye. Preparing to Say Goodbye to Your Pet For some, this comes...

One Shot. Four Viruses. Protect Your Dog With the DAPP Vaccine

New dog owners are often full of questions: Why does my dog chew this? Why did it eat that? One of the most important questions is, β€œWhy does Lucky need all these vaccines?” Simply put, puppies are very vulnerable to diseases. Which is why it is pretty amazing that...

What to Do When You Find Hurt, Injured, or Lost Wild Animals

As winter ends and spring begins, it will be time for many of us to get back to hiking, kayaking, camping, and gardening. As we do this, we will come into contact with wildlife. This blog will cover a few tips on finding wildlife and what to do when you do so. What...

Resource Topics

Fatty Holiday Foods Can Give Your Pets Pancreatitis

The holiday season is upon us and it is time for celebration! Like most pet owners, I love to include my pets in the...

Protect Your Pet from Halloween Dangers

Halloween is just around the corner and with it come some important things for you to consider for the safety of your...
Comments Box SVG iconsUsed for the like, share, comment, and reaction icons
1 week ago
VETSS

VETSS will be closed from 12 to 1:30 PM for staff training and development. Please plan your prescription pick ups accordingly and if you call the office during those hours, please feel free to leave a message and we will return your call once we reopen! ... See MoreSee Less

VETSS will be closed from 12 to 1:30 PM for staff training and development. Please plan your prescription pick ups accordingly and if you call the office during those hours, please feel free to leave a message and we will return your call once we reopen!
1 week ago
VETSS

Come join us for a day of fun!Thank you to VETSS for being a Supporting Pup Sponsor for our 11th Annual bow-WOW-walk! Your dedicated service to Charlottesville area pets and their families is incredible and we are so grateful for your generosity. Thank you, VETSS! 🐢🌟

If you're interested in becoming a sponsor for this year's event, please check out our bow-WOW-walk website at runsignup.com/Race/VA/Charlottesville/bowWOWwalk!
... See MoreSee Less

Come join us for a day of fun!
1 week ago
VETSS

Happy 1st day for Spring! β˜€οΈ ... See MoreSee Less

Happy 1st day for Spring! β˜€οΈ
Load more