The holidays often require a lot of travel, whether it’s a longer than normal car ride or even a flight. One major factor to consider when making these plans is how to handle bringing your furry companion. Because pets are part of the family and require their owners to take care of them on a daily basis, the pet is either going to a boarder or is coming along for the ride. If it’s too long of a trip to board your pet, or if you can’t find anyone trustworthy to watch it while you’re gone, it’s time to consider how to best travel with your four-legged friend.
Because 1st Lake Properties offers pet-friendly apartment communities, many of our residents are probably bringing their pets with them to spend Thanksgiving or Christmas with the family. Unless your dog or cat is unusually well behaved and calm, chances are travelling isn’t one of their favorite hobbies. Pets that suffer from travel anxiety will exhibit stressful behavior like whining, barking, panting and scratching. In order to prevent this from happening and providing the most enjoyable experience possible, there are some precautions you can take.
If your pet gets upset when traveling, ask your vet for calming medication. Before the trip, make sure your pet’s vaccinations are up to date – many airlines will not accept pets unless they are authorized for travel by a vet. If you are driving, prepare your pet for the trip beforehand by taking it on short rides. If you are keeping your pet in a carrier while travelling, let it become familiar first. Make sure you are prepared during the trip with food, water, toys, blankets and a leash. If you are planning on staying in a hotel while travelling, make sure to make your reservation at a pet-friendly hotel.
If you follow these guidelines, your travel buddy will be happy and comfortable, and so will you.
1st Lake Properties | P. O. Box 73709 | Metairie, LA 70033 | info@1stlake.com
