How to Keep Your Pet Calm During Travel: Tips and Tricks

Are you worried about how your pet will handle travel? Whether it’s a short road trip or a long flight, traveling with a pet can come with its own set of challenges. Will they remain calm? What if they become anxious or get motion sickness?

These are common concerns for many pet parents. But don’t worry, there are several ways to make the journey more comfortable for your furry friend. Let’s explore practical tips and tricks that will keep your pet calm during travel.

Preparing Your Pet for Travel

Familiarize Your Pet with Their Travel Carrier

Before embarking on your journey, it’s essential to get your pet comfortable with their travel carrier. Start by placing the carrier in your home with the door open, allowing your pet to explore it at their own pace. Adding a favorite blanket or toy inside can make it more inviting. 

You can also reward them with treats when they step inside to create positive associations. Take your pet on short car rides while they’re in their carrier to help them get used to the motion and confined space. Gradual exposure will help ease anxiety when the day of travel arrives.

Visit the Vet for a Pre-Travel Checkup

It’s essential to ensure your pet is healthy and fit for travel. Some destinations require specific vaccinations or health certificates if you’re flying or crossing state or international borders. Visit your vet well in advance to update any necessary shots and obtain documentation. If your pet is prone to travel anxiety or motion sickness, the vet may recommend medications or calming supplements. Discuss options to find what works best for your pet.

Packing Essentials for Pet Travel

When you’re traveling with your pet, keeping things simple for yourself can help reduce stress. Ensuring they have familiar items, like a favorite blanket or toy, can provide a sense of security. It’s also helpful to maintain their routine as much as possible, including regular feeding and bathroom breaks. 

If you’re traveling within the USA, staying connected can help you quickly locate pet-friendly stops or veterinary services. If you’re worried about managing multiple SIM cards during your trip, consider using e-sim usa for seamless connectivity. Just like how you prepare your pet for a smooth journey, simplifying your travel plans can make the experience more enjoyable for both of you.

• Food and Water: Bring enough of your pet’s regular food and water to last the entire trip. Sudden changes in diet can upset their stomach, and access to water is crucial to prevent dehydration.

• Comfort Items: Pack their favorite blanket, toy, or item with your scent on it. Familiar smells can provide comfort in unfamiliar environments.

• Travel-Specific Gear: Consider investing in items like portable water bowls, travel-friendly litter boxes, or collapsible crates to make the journey more convenient.

Flying with Your Pet

Understand Airline Pet Policies

When flying, it’s crucial to check your airline’s pet policies. Some airlines allow small pets to travel in the cabin, while larger pets may need to go in the cargo hold. In either case, familiarize yourself with the regulations, including size limits, required paperwork, and carrier specifications. 

Whenever possible, book direct flights to reduce the stress of layovers and transfers for your pet. A shorter journey means less time in an unfamiliar environment.

Calming Techniques for Air Travel

Flying can be particularly stressful for pets due to changes in pressure and unfamiliar sounds. Consider using calming sprays or pheromone diffusers to reduce your pet’s anxiety. 

These sprays are designed to mimic the natural calming pheromones that animals release and can help soothe them. Pets are incredibly perceptive and often feed off their owner’s energy. Staying calm and composed will help reassure your pet that everything is fine.

Tips for Keeping Your Pet Calm During Car Travel

Use Seat Belts or Carriers

For their safety and yours, keep your pet in a secured carrier or use a pet seat belt. This prevents distractions while driving and protects them in case of sudden stops.

Control the Environment

Ensure the car is in a calm and quiet environment. Avoid loud music or sudden, jerky movements. Keeping the windows partially open can help with air circulation and prevent them from feeling trapped.

Frequent Breaks

Plan for regular pit stops every 2-3 hours, allowing your pet to stretch, hydrate, and relieve themselves. Dogs especially appreciate these breaks to release pent-up energy.

Pre-Trip Feeding

Avoid feeding your pet a large meal right before travel. A light snack a few hours before the trip can help prevent an upset stomach.

Natural Remedies

Consider using natural motion sickness remedies like ginger treats, which have calming properties. Consult your vet for appropriate products.

Maintaining Pet Comfort in Hotels and Accommodations

Choose Pet-Friendly Accommodations

Not all hotels are pet-friendly, so be sure to book accommodations that cater to pets. Look for hotels that not only accept pets but also offer pet amenities like outdoor play areas, pet beds, or even pet room service menus. 

The more comfortable the environment, the easier it will be for your pet to relax. Even while traveling, try to maintain your pet’s regular feeding, play, and sleep schedule. Familiar routines provide a sense of security in new environments.

Create a Home-Away-From-Home

Make your pet’s temporary space as familiar as possible. Upon arriving at your accommodation, immediately set up a space for your pet with their bed, toys, and other comfort items. 

This will help them adjust more quickly to the new environment. If possible, avoid leaving your pet alone in an unfamiliar place. If you must step out, leave them in a crate with comforting items and ensure the hotel staff knows they’re in the room.

Natural vs. Medication-Based Calming Solutions

Additional Tips for Keeping Your Pet Calm

If your pet tends to be anxious, there are several products on the market designed to reduce stress.

CBD Oil for Pets

Many pet owners have found success using CBD oil to calm their pets during travel. Be sure to consult with your vet before using any new product to ensure it’s safe for your pet.

Anxiety Vests

Anxiety vests, such as the ThunderShirt, apply gentle pressure to your pet’s body, which can help reduce feelings of stress and anxiety.

Take a Long Walk or Play Session

Before heading out on a trip, take your dog for a long walk or engage in an extended play session. For cats, interactive toys can help burn off energy. A tired pet is more likely to rest during the journey.

Mental Stimulation

In addition to physical activity, mental stimulation is crucial. Puzzle toys or treat-dispensing toys can keep your pet occupied and reduce boredom-induced anxiety.

Conclusion

Whether you’re embarking on a road trip or flying across the country, there are always ways to keep your furry friend feeling calm and secure.  So, how ready are you to make traveling less stressful for your pet? By taking these simple steps like packing a comfort kit, using calming aids, and ensuring a safe environment you can turn what might seem like a daunting task into a smoother journey. 

Have you tried any of these tips before? Now is the time to make your next trip a breeze for both you and your pet!

Frequently Asked Questions

• What should I pack in my pet’s travel kit?
  Essentials include food, water, a favorite toy or blanket, and any necessary medications or calming aids.
• How do I keep my pet safe during car travel?
  Ensure your pet is secured in a carrier or seatbelt. Avoid feeding them a large meal right before the trip to reduce the risk of motion sickness.
• Are there natural ways to reduce my pet’s anxiety during flights?
  Yes! Calming sprays, pheromone diffusers, and natural supplements like CBD oil can help soothe your pet.