Once upon a time, the thought of jet setting with your dog was unimaginable. Sure, it has been physically possible for years, but the whole process tended to involve a lot of paperwork which immediately put most pet owners off.
Over recent times, it has become easier. Particularly if you are based in the EU, traveling between countries tends to just involve a pet passport – and perhaps a vaccination depending on your destination of choice.
However, there are “extra” things you can do to ensure that this is a safe getaway. Through today’s post, we will take a look at some of the essentials that you must take with you as you prepare to venture away with your dog – whether that’s a domestic trip or one across the ocean.
Try and take your dog’s normal food
Sure, dog food is global, and the big brands do operate all over the world.
With that being said, there’s no guarantee that you are going to be able to obtain the same food as what your dog has at home. The end result doesn’t bear thinking about; nobody wants a dog with an upset stomach on their travels (and on that note, check out this interesting guide from Scrumbles about what the wrong food can do to a dog’s stomach).
Bring along vaccination records
Hopefully, you don’t have any plans to take a trip to the vet, but if an emergency does come around the last thing you need is to be scratching your head about your dog’s medical history.
For simplicity sake, take along their vaccination records. This will show a local vet exactly what they have been vaccinated against, which might be crucial if they are trying to diagnose a condition quickly.
Pack the collar and leash
Hopefully, this will be one of the first things you pack. However, if your dog isn’t used to wearing a collar and leash during her “normal life”, then now might be the time to remind you.
Unfortunately, there’s every chance that you won’t be able to wander wherever you please in your chosen destination. Different places have different rules and if you are for example driving to your vacation home, you’ll of course need a collar and leash to manage those pitstops.
Not only that, but if you are heading somewhere exotic, this can just give you the control to ensure that your canine friend isn’t going to be munching on anything she shouldn’t be.
You can also get first aid kids for dogs
The amusing thing about this final suggestion is that a lot of people don’t take first aid kits for humans with them on vacation, but it should probably go without saying that it tends to be slightly easier to get medical assistance in this regard. When it comes to your pets, a vet might not always be on hand. As such, obtain a first aid kit containing the likes of styptic powder (for any toenail issues), eye wash and even bandages. All of this should hold you in good stead in case anything does happen on your travels.