13 Ways Traveling With Your Pet Can Go Really Wrong
Traveling with your pet sounds like the most romantic adventure. Images of wagging tails on scenic hiking trails or a companion on road trips dominate our social streams and have us excited to replicate those memories with our pets, however, things can fall apart quickly when traveling with your pets.
Hitting the road with your furry friend takes more than good intentions. It can quickly go from delightful to downright disastrous. Here’s a breakdown of what can go wrong when you hit the road with your pet, from unexpected messes to full-on emergencies.
Your Trip Can Be Ruined by Forgotten Documents
Depending on whether you are crossing state lines or flying internationally, some paperwork may need to be in hand, like vaccinations or health certificates. Have all documentation on you when traveling and double-check to be sure you didn’t forget anything. The CDC says that many of the destinations won’t let pets in without proof of vaccinations. Before your trip even takes off, a simple oversight could ground it.
Overheating In Hot Cars
Leaving your pet in the car for a minute when getting your coffee or snack is not recommended. On a mild 70°F day, the inside of a car can heat up to 100°F in minutes, causing heat stroke. The ASPCA stresses that this can be fatal and that pet owners should never leave animals unattended in vehicles even for a quick errand which can turn tragic faster than you think.
Motion Sickness Meltdowns
Not all pets are born to travel. It’s common for pets to get carsick, especially younger pets who aren’t used to long rides. Look out for symptoms like drooling, whining, or vomiting. According to the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), about 10 percent of dogs develop regular motion sickness. It helps to take anti-nausea medications or make frequent stops. Always plan ahead.
Accommodation Nightmares
Even when their website indicates that they do, not all hotels or rentals are willing to let you bring a pet. Some have breed restrictions, others charge hefty fees, and policies vary wildly. Picture yourself booking a cute Airbnb, and then realizing your 80-pound Labrador isn’t welcome. Always check and verify pet rules before you go. Better safe than stuck.
Food Mishaps
Traveling can upset your pet’s normal eating habits. Upset stomachs and allergic reactions can occur from new foods or treats. That’s why veterinarian Dr. Emily Stone cautions, “Sudden dietary changes can wreak havoc on a pet’s digestive system”. Try to stick to their usual diet as much as possible during travel.
Lost Pets In Unfamiliar Places
A new environment can make even the best-trained pet bolt with fear. One in three pets will become lost at some point in their lives, according to the American Humane Association. Lifesavers are microchip and ID tags with updated contact information. It is important to keep a close eye on busy areas.
Flight Fiascos
Traveling by air with a pet can be difficult, with some pets being crammed into tight conditions or even lost in the cargo. Pets sometimes get sick or worse on flights due to poor handling or temperature extremes. If you must fly, choose airlines with a good record for pet care and fly your pet in the cabin whenever possible.
Anxiety Is Triggered by Unfamiliar Surroundings
Pets can become overwhelmed by new places, smells, and sounds. Anxiety in your pet may sound like whining, barking, or destructive behaviors. According to pet expert Sarah Wilson, bringing a familiar blanket or toy will help to ease the transition by planning rest days in quieter areas.
Parasites And Illnesses
Pets are exposed to diseases or parasites that are not common in your area when they travel. Your companion can suffer from ticks, fleas, and even regional illnesses. Before heading out, the Companion Animal Parasite Council suggests talking to your vet about preventative measures, especially if you’re in an area with a high risk of parasites or infections.
Restricted Attractions
National parks or museums are popular travel destinations but have strict no-pet policies. Some places are pet-friendly, while others leave you scrambling for pet-sitting options at the last minute. Before you create an itinerary, check the rules to avoid heartbreak and wasted gas.
Packing Oversights
Forgetting something as simple as your pet’s leash or medication can become a crisis. Picture realizing you left their special allergy pills at home while hours from the nearest vet. A well-thought-out packing list would save you from these unexpected occurrences.
Unexpected Aggression
Stress makes pets behave differently, and they may attack you. You might not have the smoothest of encounters with unfamiliar animals or strangers. Trainer Lily Martin says, “If your pet is growling or stiffening, remove it from stressful situations immediately.”
The Surprise Vet Bill
Vet bills hit like a ton of bricks when accidents happen. These expenses can add up quickly, from minor injuries to serious health scares, especially when you’re far from your regular vet. Even that won’t cover everything, but investing in pet travel insurance can soften the pressure.
Disclaimer: This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.
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