Many people have grown so close with their pets, whether cats or dogs, that some consider them family members. Dedicated pet parents even carry them along to every place, whether on a road trip or a camping tour. Traveling with pets comes with the responsibility of ensuring that they are safe throughout the journey, and this is where most people lack the know-how. Below are tips to ensure you drive safely with your pets.
Be aware of the laws for traveling with animals.
Most people are unaware that there are laws governing how you should treat animals. These laws vary from place, so it is essential to research the rules and guidelines of the area you are planning to travel to. This should be the foremost thing you do before starting your journey to avoid problems with law enforcement afterward. You might even realize some places do not allow pets into their building. This can create the stressful situation of traveling with your pet but being unable to enter your hotel.
Take your pets on short trips beforehand.
Driving safely with pets is highly influenced by the pet’s behavior, and the behavior is determined by how comfortable the pet is feeling. Short trips will help your pets adapt to traveling and feel more comfortable in moving vehicles. In the process, you will learn the pets’ responses to traveling. Like humans, animals can also get nausea and vomiting from traveling. Note your pets behaviour throughout shorter trips and consult your veterinarian on the best medication to give your pets to prevent nausea during the long journey.
Keep your pets hydrated.
Instead of relying on gas stations and other rest areas to hydrate your pets, be sure to bring your own water on your journey. This is essential for people traveling with their dogs. Dogs drink water twice their body weight, and it is best if you bring as much water as necessary. Keeping your pets hydrated is essential to ensure they do not get dehydrated during the journey and start feeling uncomfortable. If they are uncomfortable, they might be moving around in the car, which may cause you distractions, risking their safety by probably having a car crash.
Keep your pets attended to.
If you can’t be around them all the time, never take your pets on a journey without someone to look after them. Taking into consideration the time you will be out of the vehicle. You cannot leave your pets alone in the car; they might try escaping from the vehicle as they get agitated. Other than risking their safety, they might also damage your vehicle and essential things in the car. Leaving your pets in the car alone might cause fatal harm as the interiors of the car heats up quickly.
Ensure you are well stocked with essentials.
If you are planning to go on a long journey, it might be difficult for a person to keep the pets in order throughout the journey. This makes it necessary to have a carrier to put your pet on. Ensure the carrier you get is not restrictive but has enough space for the pet to stand up, turn around and sleep. Other than that, poop bags, odor removers, water, pet snacks, and maybe a pet first aid kit are also essential. Ensure your pets provide 3 to 4 hours before the journey and encourage them to visit the toilet.
Remember to carry important documents for your pets, like vaccination records or clinic check-ups, as some states require you to produce them when you are on a journey with a pet. No matter how much you love your pet, avoid having it in the front seat or sitting on your lap while driving to prevent serious harm in the event of a motor vehicle accident.
