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What to pack for a stress-free adventure with your furry friend: Step-by-step video

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What to pack for a stress-free adventure with your furry friend: Step-by-step video

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Pets are part of the family for a lot of people. This means some pet owners choose to travel with their animals instead of leaving them at home, boarding them, or following the growing trend of hiring a pet sitter. An August study from The American Pet Products Association found that 88% of dog owners and 90% of cat owners traveled via car with their pets in the last year. They’re also taking to the skies, with nearly 70% of dog owners and 80% of cat owners catching a flight with their companion. While it’s fun to go on an adventure with your pet, a lot of work can go into making sure both you and your animal are comfortable on the journey. If you’re taking a road trip, there are apps to help you find dog-friendly places to sit, stay and roll over (or stop, sleep, and explore if you’re a human).Before you leave, make sure the details on your pet’s tag are up to date and the poop bag supply on their leash is stocked up. Also, take some time to find a vet’s office at your destination and near where you’ll be staying, just in case. Watch this video to see what you need to pack when traveling with a pet. 

How to travel with a pet

The key to traveling with your pet is to be prepared. That means having toys and treats to keep them occupied and happy, as well as packing puppy pads, gloves and cleaning spray in case of accidents. Of course, there are also the essentials, like a name tag, leash and harness to safely navigate with your pet. If your dog has never used a harness, spend some time before your trip working to get them comfortable wearing it and walking in it. A comfortable and confident pet is a less stressed pet! Creating a packing list on your phone or in an easily accessible document will help ensure you have everything your pet needs for this trip and any future trips.Include items like:

  • Food and treats. Depending on the length of your stay, consider having food delivered to your destination. That way, you’re only packing enough to get through your travel days, plus a little extra.
  • Any medications or supplements they take.
  • Poop bags, poop bags and more poop bags! 
  • Your pet’s favorite toy(s). 
  • Collapsible food and water bowls. 
  • Boots to protect their paws in cold climates or a towel for the beach. 
  • A travel-sized spray bottle of stain remover. You can easily do this by pouring some of your at-home supply into a small spray bottle. If you’re flying, make sure it fits TSA’s liquid guidelines.
  • Gloves and hand sanitizer. 

If your pet is traveling in a carrier, line it with puppy pads for an extra level of protection. 

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Airline pet policy

If you’re flying with your pet, check your airline’s pet policy and plan accordingly. Major airlines, including Southwest and United, limit the number of pets allowed on each flight, so make your arrangements as early as possible. Many airlines charge a pet fee and require the pet’s carrier to fit underneath the seat unless you are traveling with a fully-trained service animal. Most airlines no longer accept checked pets as cargo. However, they do offer exceptions for pets belonging to members of the military and foreign service. Btw, if your pet requires the “furst” class treatment, the dog-focused airline BARK Air might be your best bet.

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