Guest article by Eliza Jeffrey
Let’s face it; pets aren’t just a companion for most of us. They are more like a family member. They share our happiness and sadness with us and keep us engaged throughout the day. Most of us can’t imagine surviving without them, even for one day.
As many parts of the world have lifted COVID-19 travel restrictions, we are undoubtedly ready to go for a much-needed vacation. But leaving the little piece of our heart at home is a straight no-no.
However, traveling with a pet is no easy feat – for both pets and humans. Yet, with proper planning, you can take your furry friend on your next trip to Tennessee.
First, however, keep in mind the following things to ensure you enjoy a stress-free vacation with your pet:
1. Research the destination thoroughly
When preparing for a trip with your pet, the first step you need to do is conduct thorough research. You'll want to explore pet-friendly cabins in pigeon forge as an excellent option for being pet-friendly and having fantastic vacation spots. This would include beautiful parks and resorts where you can take your pet out in nature. Or breathtaking beaches nearby where you and your furry baby can play different games and relax in the sun.
2. Book a pet-friendly room
Imagine going to a location with your pet only to discover the place you booked doesn’t allow pets.
Therefore, when looking for accommodation options, be sure to review the hotel website. Usually, websites have detailed explanations. However, even if you can’t find your answers on the website, you can call the hotel beforehand and get your queries resolved.
For instance, if you plan a trip to Pigeon Forge, book one of the pet-friendly cabins in Pigeon Forge that offer special treats and various other amenities. These pet-friendly cabins are a great way to spend some relaxing time with your four-legged friend.
3. Go through the airline policies
Another thing to consider when flying with your pet is to ensure you take the direct flight. It is even more crucial if your pet is big and needs to go in a cargo bay.
Furthermore, it is relevant to note that there are some fee structures, requirements, and restrictions that passengers must follow when flying with their pets. However, airline policies vary. So make sure you understand the policies and procedures clearly.
4. Get your pet checked with a vet
Is your pet even in a state to travel?
Due to their previous health conditions, some pets are not in good shape to travel. Thus, a better idea is to visit the vet. Moreover, some travel destinations require health certificates and certain vaccinations.
Let the vet know about your travel plans. Letting them know about the travel destination can help veterinarians tell you about potential risks in the region.
In addition, your vet can help you determine which medicines your pet might need on vacation and even check the legalities of prescribed medicines in the state you plan to visit.
5. Get all the correct paperwork
Are you planning to cross the border for your vacation? In that case, you can’t go too far without proper documents by your side.
Many countries check up-to-date and vet-authorized paperwork of the animals, too. Depending on the state laws, some officials check original documents while others may want to see copies.
So make sure you have all the medical records, health certificates, and other necessary paperwork.
6. Safety comes first
Of course, you would never want your pet to escape or get lost in an unfamiliar destination. Or worse, get injured during your vacation. That is why safety measures must be your utmost priority.
So whenever you travel via a car, keeping your pet in a crate or securing them with a seatbelt harness would be best.
Moreover, you can have a microchip implanted on your pet’s skin to track them if they go missing. Another option is to place a tag on your pet’s collar with updated information.
7. Always keep them hydrated
Like humans, lack of water can cause serious health problems in animals. So when traveling, be sure to keep your pet hydrated enough.
A pro tip is to pack a refillable water bottle for your four-legged companion. You can also attach a water bowl to your pet’s crate so they can quench their thirst.
However, if that is not possible, give them wet food. Eating wet food provides your pet sufficient nutrients to stay healthy during the vacation.
8. Pack the food
Are you thinking about a bit of adventure by feeding your four-legged friend new food in the new place? That might not be a wise idea.
Instead, pack your pet’s food from home. Chances are, the grocery or supply store you may visit in the new destination doesn’t have the right food your pet is used to.
Giving your pet the regular food they eat can help them avoid upset stomachs and other health issues.
Moreover, avoid overfeeding your pet before the travel begins to prevent nausea, and feed them regularly at the same time as you did back home.
9. Practice goes a long way
Your pet might be comfortable going with you on a short quick trip. Long trips are, however, an entirely different story. For this reason, you need to practice.
Thus, take your pet on a long ride, and make them sit where you plan to have them seated on your vacation. You can give your pet toys and treats. Doing so will give an idea about how your pet will react or behave on vacation.
10. Let your pet find a friend
While it is true that you are there as a friend for your pet, don’t just restrict them to yourself. Instead, let them socialize and make other friends.
One best way is to take your four-legged companion with you for a walking tour to a nearby park and let them mingle with other animals. Or join an online community for your fur baby. These communities host a meeting or gathering that you and your pet can go to and enjoy.
11. Pack essential items
You can’t just grab your pet and hit the road. Before leaving on a trip, do some packing for your animal companion. Make a checklist of all the necessary items you must bring along on vacation for your pet. It can include food, water, leash, bed, litter box, favorite toy, and waste bags.
Moreover, don’t forget to have emergency supplies on hand. Keep a first aid kit, vet’s contact number, and pet’s medical record in an emergency kit.
Summing up
There is no denying that leaving your four-legged friend behind and going for a trip is enough to invoke a feeling of dread in you. But here’s the good part. You can double your fun on your next adventure by taking your pet with you. No one is stopping you!
However, before embarking on the journey, be sure to do proper research, read guidelines, vaccinate them, and take essential items and paperwork. And don’t forget to have fun!
