How can I make my pet comfortable when travelling?

Travelling with pets can be a fun and exciting experience. Going on an adventure together, whether that’s exploring a new town, taking a holiday or summiting a remote mountain, can be a rich and rewarding bonding experience. While safety should be your top priority, comfort comes a close second. Whether you are transporting pets by car, train or plane, there are steps you can take to make sure your pet is as comfortable as possible.

Start pet travelling while they’re young

Even if you don’t plan on going anywhere exotic with your pet, the chances are that you’ll at least need to take them on a short car journey now and then. It’s best if you can introduce them to the idea of travelling when they are as young as possible. You could start by just sitting in the car with them and not going anywhere to allow them a chance to get used to their surroundings. This familiarity will help them to feel safe and secure. Then you could go on a short trip a few minutes down the road and gradually build up the length of time you spend. Don’t forget to end each journey with a reward. This could be a treat, a walk, or just plenty of fuss and attention.

Pack familiar items

When travelling with pets, it’s a good idea to include some familiar items that smell like home. This could be a blanket or one of their favourite toys. If you are planning a longer trip that involves flying with pets, there may be some rules about what you can and can’t include. For example, most pet couriers advise against including toys in a travel crate as they could be a choking hazard. 

Plan for breaks

If you’re thinking about taking a long road trip with your pet, make sure you allow time for some breaks. These stops will not only allow for toilet breaks, but are also a great opportunity to stretch their legs and burn off some energy. Don’t forget to pack plenty of water and snacks for your pet. If they are prone to getting car sick, allow for some digestion time before you begin travelling again. 

Check the weather

Keep an eye on the weather reports when travelling with pets. You’ll need to make allowances if the weather is going to be very cold or very hot. If the weather is going to be hot, try and travel at the start or end of the day when the temperature is generally lower. If your pet is travelling in the back seat or the boot, check whether your air conditioning reaches that spot and be sure to remove the parcel shelf to allow for good air flow. 

Be well stocked

Make sure you have a good supply of water and food. Pack a little extra too in case of any unexpected stops or emergencies. Pet travel is very fun but can be full of surprises! Don’t forget to take plenty of poo bags too. 

Talk to your pet

Finally, it’s important to talk to your pet during travel. Hearing your voice can provide a sense of comfort and familiarity during this experience. Talk in a calm, soothing voice and offer treats and praise for good behaviour.

Travelling with pets can be a fun and rewarding experience, but it’s important to make sure your pet is comfortable during the trip. By following these tips, you can help reduce anxiety and ensure a safe and comfortable journey for your furry companion.

Wed Jun 7 2023