We’ve all been in situations where our beloved pet had to travel elsewhere without us. But now, thanks to the pet travel industry that’s been growing by leaps and bounds, the anxiety of leaving your furry friend at home can be avoided. Whether you’re flying with a pup, a kitten, or a rabbit, the experience can be made pleasant with the right preparations. In this article, we’re giving you essential tips for a stress-free flying experience with your furry friends.
1) Ready, Set, Takeoff: Preparing Your Furry Friend for Flight
Travelling with your furry friend? Great! Taking a plane with creaky wings and turbulent airs? Not so great. But fear not – here’s how to prepare your pet properly and get your minds and bodies ready for take-off.
A Plan for the Next Five Days
- Reserve airline-approved pet-appropriate carrier and familiarize pet with it.
- Schedule veterinary appointment to receive proper medications such as antinausea/ anti-anxiety.
- Make sure pet is up-to-date on vaccinations.
- Prepare copies of veterinarian records.
- Familiarize pet with the sounds associated with take-off (start Youtube videos 10 days in advance).
- Pack plenty of collapsible bowls, treats, and litter, plus a few favorite toys.
Still plenty of time to go but the most important things at this point are to research the specific airline regulations, not to mention the climate and the destination of the flight for your pet. Things you should consider include the type of pet you will be flying–whether it’s a cat, a ferret, a lizard, or an apple-picking donkey.
Another fact worth noting about the flight is that the air pressure in the cabin changes with transition from downwards to upwards. This pressure change can cause low-level discomfort in any pet, so make sure your pet is well-hydrated before and during the flight.
2) Arming Yourself with the Necessary Equipment
If you’ve ever seen a pro golfer hit the green, you know there’s more to the game than precision and finesse. In order to be successful, you need to have the right equipment. Going without the necessary items, or using subpar materials, may lead to a less than stellar round of golf.
When it comes to getting the most out of your game, the right clubs, balls, and attire can make a real difference. While there’s still a lot of skill behind hitting the perfect drive or putting the ball in the hole, having equipment that works best for you can give you an edge. Here’s what every golfer should have on hand:
- Golf Bag: A golf bag is necessary to stow your clubs as you move around a course. Choose the one that works best for you, keeping in mind whether you’ll be walking or using a cart, as well as enough storage for all your clubs and gear.
- Clubs: As the main tool of the trade, leave no stone unturned in researching potential clubs. With a wide range of styles and materials out there, find the set that works best for you. Give yourself plenty of practice time to become accustomed to a new set.
- Golf Balls: Golf balls come in all shapes, sizes, and colors. Choose the one that best suits your sensibilities and test different models to find the one that fits your game. Selecting the right ball can drastically reduce your number of putts.
- Shoes and Clothing: Having the right golf apparel is not only important for looking sharp on the course, but also for your physical performance. Go with waterproof clothing and top-of-the-line golf shoes for maximum comfort.
From golf bags to golf balls, having the right items for the job can greatly enhance your game. Don’t be afraid to do some research and invest in the gear you know will benefit you in the long run. Before long, you’ll find yourself seeing a real difference between a day on the course with your old clubs and one with new and improved accessories.
3) Ensuring the Comfort of Your Beloved Pet
It’s important to make sure your beloved pet is as comfortable and safe as possible. Here are a few tips and tricks you can use to make sure that they’re comfortable in any situation:
- Regular Health Checks: This is essential for keeping your pet healthy and is the first step in ensuring comfort. Make sure your pet has regular visits to the vet for check-ups, meaning that any potential issues can be identified quickly.
- Exercise for Dogs: Dogs need plenty of exercise to stay healthy and maintain a healthy weight. Whether it’s a walk through the park, a game of fetch, or a swim, regular exercise will keep your furry friend happy and active.
- Cuddles Before Bed: Pets like to be near their owners, so giving your pet a cuddle at night can be the perfect way to show your love and make them feel safe and secure. Let them sleep close to you, or in their special bed, and you’ll both benefit.
A few other tips that can make your pet more comfortable include providing plenty of toys and scratching posts for cats, offering a variety of treats, and making sure they have enough space to move around. If you own a pet, it’s important to understand their individual needs and how to make sure they feel safe and secure.
Finally, to make sure your pet’s environment is as comfortable as possible, make sure they always have access to fresh water and shade when outside. If you’re on the move, make sure to bring along a travel-size bed and a few of their favourite toys. Taking the extra effort to ensure your pet’s comfort will create a bond that will last a lifetime.
4) How to Avoid any Stress-Inducing Snafus
Making sure your to-do list doesn’t turn into a never ending heap of obligations is one surefire way to survive any stressful period. Investing in a day planner or using your smartphone’s calendar can help you stay organized and on top of deadlines. That way, you won’t find yourself running out of time when you need it the most.
No matter how many lists you make, chances are there are some tasks that you find difficult to manage alone. That’s why asking for some help never hurts. Whether it’s an extra pair of hands at home or someone to help you with a project, it’s never a bad idea to rely on people who can support you when you need it.
Finally, avoiding stress starts with your very own attitude. It’s easy to get overwhelmed with the many obligations a day may bring, but learning to take a step back and refocus is key to making sure your deadlines are met. All it takes is learning to prioritize tasks, knowing when to take breaks and indulging a bit in some activities that relax you:
- Take a bubble bath
- Go for a walk
- Engage in some light reading
- Watch a funny movie
5) Tapping into the Resources of Your Airline
You’ve made your purchase, and your ticket is booked. Now, take advantage of the resources your airline provides to ensure a smooth journey!
Research your airline ahead of time. Some may offer their own mobile phone apps with tools to manage your booking, navigate your way through their airport, and get up-to-date information on flight times, seating, and other services. Familiarize yourself with their website as well. This is the best way to find out about offers, discounts, and promotions that you may be eligible for.
Further, many airlines have early check-in options, making it easier for you to print your boarding pass before you go to the airport. You can also take advantage of their online seat reservations and carry-on baggage services. Many airlines often have dedicated loyalty programs that will reward frequent travellers with bonus points and access to exclusive services.
- Research your airline ahead of time
- Take advantage of early check-in options
- Check out their loyalty programs
6) Itinerary Adjustments to Accommodate Your Pet
Pets are an important part of your family too! It would be an injustice to forget planning your pet’s accompaniment in your travel itinerary. The good news is that it is fairly easy to adjust an itinerary to include your pet – even on typical tours and packages.
Here are some tips you can follow to make sure you’re on track:
- Start by searching for pet-friendly accommodations. Hotel chains like Marriott, Hyatt, and Hilton have rooms available for pet owners.
- Renting a car? Be sure to check if the company has a policy allowance for pets.
- Investigate if the mode of transportation allows pets and if they need any special documents.
- Research park restrictions near your destination. Will your pet get to enjoy the sights and sounds of nature with you?
- Pack the necessary items for your pet’s comfort. This can include poop bags, an identification tag, waterproof bag for carrying the pet, and water bowls.
By keeping these tips in mind, you will have a great time travelling with your pet without having to worry! To make the process even easier, you can work with a travel agent to adjust the itinerary according to your preferences and your pet’s needs, giving you all the assurance for a comfortable and enjoyable trip. All you have to do is relax and enjoy the journey!
7) What to Do at the Airport With Your Pet
Not sure what the best course of action is for traveling with your pet? Fear not, here’s a guide to make sure your time at the airport runs smoothly.
Do Your Research – Before heading to the airport, make sure to check the airline’s regulations on pet travel. Restrictions may apply depending on the pet’s type, size and destination. It’s best to have this information with you before you arrive to reduce stress and avoid any unnecessary hassles.
Check The Bags – Ensure your pet’s carrier is secure and meets all regulations. The bag should be big enough for your pet to move around with some space to spare. Additionally, the bag should be labelled clearly with your information and contact details. Arm yourself with a leash and other essentials for trained animals.
Prepare the Animal – Considering pets aren’t used to airplanes and airports, many will be anxious in this environment. Make sure your pet is in good condition and has all the necessary items one needs for a comfortable journey. Here’s a checklist of what you should pack to be sure:
- A sufficient amount of food and water
- Pet medication
- Any health certificates or documents you need for your destination
- Bowls for food and water
- Toys and blankets for comfort
- A collar and tag with your contact information
- Poop bags for cleaning up any messes
- Extra plastic bags to line the pet carrier
Following these steps, you’ll have a stress-free journey with your pet. They’ll be with you every step of the way.
8) Tips for Handling Pet Anxiety In Flight
Create A Comfortable Flight Experience
For anxious pets, it helps to bring some familiar items along for the ride, like their favorite toys, blankets, and even things with scents that remind them of home. If your pet is allowed to sit in your lap, make sure you provide a comfortable area for them to settle. Alternatively, if the pet has their own carrier, you can add soft padding to the bottom of it and line it with a blanket or article of clothing that smells like home.
Give Treats & Distraction
Treats can go a long way to ease pet anxiety in flight. Bringing a few favorite snacks that your pet knows and loves will help keep them feeling safe and allow them to stay focused on the treats rather than worrisome events. For added distraction, provide a few pet puzzle games or interactive chew toys.
Natural Remedies for Pet Anxiety
If your pet is unbearably anxious during the flight, consider using natural remedies like lavender essential oil. Adding a few drops to a damp cloth and rubbing it on your pet’s neck or behind the ear can be calming and promote slower breathing. Other alternatives to consider are calming sprays, herbal treatments, and even anti-anxiety comfort wraps.
9) Keeping Your Pet Well-Fed During the Trip
When travelling with your pet, being prepared is half the battle. Preparing the right meals and enough snacks for your pet is key to ensuring your pet stays well-fed during the journey. Here are a few simple steps to keep your pet satisfied during your upcoming trip:
- Plan Ahead: Decide which meals and snacks you‘d like to bring for your pet. If you’re not sure what to bring, remember to consult your veterinarian.
- Gather the Groceries: Once you know what meals your pet will enjoy, pick up the necessary ingredients beforehand. This helps avoid any last-minute grocery mishaps and ensures your pet gets exactly what they need.
- Pack Properly: Make sure all supplies and ingredients are securely packed in containers that won’t leak or spoil. If you‘re travelling for an extended period, consider packing a mini cooler with snacks and meals.
You should also remember to bring along plenty of water for both yourself and your pets. That way, everyone can stay hydrated on the road! Whether it’s a weekend getaway or an international adventure, keeping your pet well-fed is an essential part of making your trip as enjoyable as possible.
10) Prize of Landing: Giving Your Pet a Loving Homecoming
Giving your pet a fond homecoming just got more rewarding. We are delighted to announce the Prize of Landing – an exclusive reward package for pet owners who strive to give their furry friend a loving home. Whether you’re bringing home a new canine companion or a long-time family friend, the Prize of Landing makes sure that your arrival is as delightful and rewarding as possible.
Upon landing, you will receive the prized pet pack, filled with a variety of goodies. This includes:
- Food samples – to make sure your pet’s pantry is never bare.
- A pet toy – to bring plenty of fun and entertainment.
- A complimentary grooming session – to get them looking their freshest.
- A personalized gift – to make them feel welcome and special.
For your pet’s grand homecoming, the Prize of Landing will ensure it is truly special. Sign up for the reward package today and gift your pet the arrival they deserve.
Traveling with a pet can be scary and stressful, yet with the right tips and preparations, it can be pleasant and memorable. Don’t let the stress of air travel keep you from giving your furry companion an incredible and thrilling adventure! Always remember: with the proper supplies and research, your trip with your furry friend will be smooth sailing from take off to touchdown.