5 Must-Haves for Traveling Pet Lovers

Here’s a scenario: You are planning to go out on a three-day beach adventure. Bags are packed, hotel accommodation has been booked, the station wagon is all gassed up, everything is good to go! Now, here’s a thing. “Can Buster and Felina come with you on this trip?”  

photo courtesy of coolanimalworld.com

Tagging along your pet to an awesome getaway definitely adds fun to the trip! What’s great with this is that you get to spend more time as you share the experience with your canine and feline buddies! But before you go gaga about the thought of beach-bumming with your pet dog or cat, get your checklist and see if you have these 5 must-haves for traveling pet lovers:

1. Pet crate – “It’s usually a good idea to crate your dog when riding in the car. You’ll be less distracted while driving which is safer for both of you.” says legendary dog whisperer, Cesar Millan. This is also applicable for cats. The idea is to stay focus on the long and winding road. Besides, there will be plenty of quality time to enjoy with your pet once you have reached your destination.

2. Pet IDs and Leach – Like humans, dogs and cats need a little limber up after a long day of road trip. After all, dogs and cats need to release their constrained energy from time to time. It is a-must to leash your pet when going for a walk to control and keep them from doing unnecessary nibbling or worse, from jumping onto somebody. As for the tag, make sure it has their name on it, along with your contact information for identification in case you lose grip of their leash and get loose. 

3. Pet snacks and treats – It’s fine to toss a chunk of your pet’s favorite snack every once in a while during trips, but make sure not to make them full. Pets may experience road trip sickness, and may throw up in your car. As a precaution, make sure to set up your car’s back seat with your trusty pet seat cover.

4. Toys – Dogs and cats tend to get uneasy during the long trip, itself, that’s why make sure these toy come in handy. Throw in their favorite stuffed animal, chew toys or koosh ball to keep them busy and calm during your driving stretch. 

5. Portable litter box – Cats and dogs incapable of holding in Mother Nature’s call, (that goes for number 1 and number 2).  What more during travel. And being the responsible driver (and human), it is your obligation to check if they need to “go” every once in a while. That’s where portable litter box comes in. As for dogs that are not used to relieve themselves in a litter box, just go for a quick stopover and bring a lot of old newspaper or tissue to go on with your pooch’s business. 

HONORABLE MENTION: Health certificates – this is applicable for “jet-set” pets on airline travel. Along with the necessary requirements such as airline-compliant pet carrier, you must have with you a valid health certificate, clearance and other important paperwork, as well as additional fees that may come along the way during check-ins. 

Having these 5 must-have pet essentials with you will definitely make your vacation with your lovable furry friends memorable, worthwhile and hassle-free.