If your goal this Easter is to take vacations to your most faithful friend, plan your trip with time and keep in mind his needs, take note!
The means of transport:
Each means of transport has a specific policy for traveling with a pet that you should know. Here we inform you about the most important:
BY CAR, make sure your dog gets used to the trips little by little taking advantage of any of your short trips before embarking on the long trip. Do not leave the dog loose in the car, among other reasons, to avoid distractions to the driver. We advise any of these options that will depend mainly on his size and the duration of the trip:
- Separation networks: They allow dividing the space between the front and rear seats and prevent the dog from distracting the attention of the driver. It is the best method for long journeys since it allows a certain mobility.
- You can use a pet carrier, but only if your dog is small.
- Safety belt: attach it with a harness-type safety belt for dogs, although for very long distances it can be uncomfortable because it allows very little mobility.
BY PLANE, you must get inform in the different companies. In the aircraft depending on his weight will be able to travel with the passenger in a pet carrier or in a cage in the hold.
BY BOAT, as with rail or air transport, there is no specific national regulation for traveling with pets. The companies in each sector are responsible for specifying the conditions required for handling and transporting animals. In this internal regulation, the safety and well-being of the rest of the passengers is the main priority, while at the same time ensuring the welfare of the animal. However, usually all animals must make a reservation and obtain a boarding pass, whether it travels in the cages enabled on the ships or if they do it with their own transport. At the time of boarding we can be asked for the animal’s health card, so you should always have it ready.
BY TRAIN, you must inform yourself because there are time restrictions that also depend on the type of train you are going to use.
Specific nutrition and hydration
Start the trip with empty stomach and bladder, that is, do not give food at least 4 hours before the trip and give little water. As for taking food there is no problem if the trip is national or intra-community, however, on an international trip we do not recommend it, unless your dog eats special food that are difficult to get at the destination. In the case of international flights, there is a permitted amount of food which is the daily portion (between one and two cups) which is only as “emergency”. This is because if the food or treats are made with animal products they may be banned from entering the country. It is better to avoid having someone decide to do a sanitary inspection and get confiscated or fined. This changes from country to country, but the truth is better to avoid any mishap in the customs and better to look for your dog’s food in the place of your destination.
Exercise before leaving
Stroll a very good time before starting the trip. This helps not only that you can do your needs before the trip but also that you are tired and not very nervous.
A good attitude
It transmits tranquility and confidence, if your dog does not travel with you in the cabin, do not make a big farewell scene. That will only make him sad. If you are calm, he will be too. Take any object that is familiar to you and make you feel comfortable and relaxed.
Carry the necessary documentation
Take with you the sanitary card of the animal with vaccinations and deworming in order. Find out about the papers and vaccines that will be requested at your destination if the trip is international.
And have a happy trip!
