Smaller-breed dog owners can easily move their pets in carry-on luggage. When you have a Saint Bernard, it's not easy. However, this does not mean you should leave your pet behind, which is something you can stop if you're traveling alone or relocating to a new location. There are a lot of choices for traveling with a big dog, whether you're moving, taking a break, or heading away on business. Here's what you need to learn.
The Basics of Travelling
with a Big Dog Breed
Traveling with your pet isn't
quite the same as traveling with a child. Understanding how to travel with a
pet, particularly a large dog, necessitates preparation. It's not something you
want to find out while on the road or the day of the event. Check with the
airline you'll be flying with to see if they can handle big dogs. You must also
be aware of their practices. While some airlines offer containers, the majority
of them require you to carry your own.
If you don't already have a
crate, give yourself sufficient time to find and buy a nice one, as well as
teach your dog not to panic while he or she is in it. Your dog should ideally
be crate trained. And therefore, even if they don't, they should be comfortable
spending time in their crate. And if you just purchase the crate a week ahead
of time and place your dog in for a few hours a day with toys, it will make a
huge difference on the day you leave.
How to Travel Safely With
a Big Dog Breed
Dogs are part of the family, so of course, you would want to take
them with you everywhere you go, even when traveling to other places. With so
many pet-friendly accommodations and businesses around the world, it’s much
easier to travel with our furry companions.
However, many pet owners may have observed that traveling with a
bigger dog breed is more difficult! After all, they are stronger, require
bigger cages, and they can’t slip into carry-on luggage compared to Chihuahuas
or Shih Tzus.
That doesn’t mean traveling with big dogs is the hardest thing in
the world, though! I’ll be showing you helpful tips on how you can travel with
your dog well.
1. Get
To Know The Rules
Airlines, as you would expect, have a slew of laws and regulations
for traveling with pets. You must read them carefully to avoid having your pet
turned away while boarding. Check with your chosen airline to see which dog
breeds are permitted aboard. Usually, breeds with snubbed noses are not allowed
in the cargo hold. It's because of their facial features. It may be difficult
for them to breathe normally due to this arrangement. Pit bulls and other bully
breeds could also be prohibited from flying.
2. Make
an informed decision about your flight.
Look for nonstop flights that don't need any transfers. You can
also stop flying during the holidays, when airlines and airports are
particularly busy. You would be able to reduce the chances of anything going
awry in this manner. If your pet must travel as cargo, keep in mind the weather
conditions in your destination. If you're going somewhere hot, try flying early
in the morning or late in the night when the temperatures aren't as high. In
colder climates, schedule flights during the day, when temperatures are at
their warmest. Also, bear in mind that airlines will not allow your pet to
travel if the temperature anywhere at location becomes too cold or hot. You'll
have to struggle to make alternative arrangements if anything happens.
3. Contact
Your airline
Many airlines only accommodate just few dogs per flight, please
call ahead to ensure that you and your dog will be able to board. As a result,
please make reservations for both yourself and your pet simultaneously.
4. Take
your dog to the vet for a checkup
Once your dog has received his ticket, take him to the
veterinarian for a health certificate. It's to make sure the dog is well enough
to fly and has all of its immunizations up to date. The certificate has a
30-day expiration date. Both your departure and return would necessitate it.
Many airlines need a clean bill of health for your dog to be less than 10 days
old. If your travel will last longer than the length of your licence, you will
need to arrange a vet appointment. To satisfy the criteria of your return
flight, you must do it while on holiday.
5.
Plan Ahead
to Save Hassle
Even preparing a loose
itinerary
will be helpful in making sure that you and your dog will be comfortable and
having fun throughout the trip. You wouldn’t want your trip to have any sudden
changes due to accommodation or areas not accepting pets!
Speaking of accommodation and tourist attractions, these two need
to be planned ahead, as some hotels or hostels aren’t as pet-friendly as
others. You can do a quick search online to find and reserve your
accommodation, provided that it’s pet-friendly, and create a plan that includes
your dog, may it be picnics in parks, visiting attractions, and the like.
And remember, pet-friendly should mean that the hotel, attraction,
airline, or car accepts big dogs! Speaking of airlines, remember that
they will have stricter rules when traveling with big dogs, which will require
further research and planning.
6.
Prepare the
Right Items
You should pack not only for yourself but your dog, too! He needs
to have a canine travel kit, which is great in case of any emergencies or
unexpected situations. Here are what you should pack for your furry friend:
· His vaccination records,
along with any medications and vitamins needed
· Collar, leash or no pull dog harness, and dog tags that have your contact
details
· Grooming supplies such as
a dog brush, nail clippers, tweezers, poo bags, scooper, dog brush, and dog
shampoo
· His favorite toys and
treats
· His cage and beddings,
such as any favorite pads or blankets he uses
· Dog food, his bowls, and
a pet water bottle useful for keeping him hydrated (you can find
these supplies in PetSwag)
· First aid kit
7. Keep Things Comfortable
Right before the big trip, make sure that your dog gets a lot of
exercise, which can help him feel tuckered out and ready to stay calm and rest
in the car or plane. This is much better than having to deal with a huge and
heavy dog expending his energy jumping around car seats!
Furthermore, since your dog will be spending a few hours in
transit to the destination, make it as comfortable
as possible. Limit your dog’s food intake and feed them smaller portions
frequently when on a road trip. If they are in a plane, keep their crate comfy
with a lot of security blankets and enough food and water for the duration of
the flight.
Make sure to keep these tips in mind and you’ll be able to enjoy
smooth travels and memorable vacations with your dog now!
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