As summer approaches, many pet owners are faced with the dilemma of whether to take their beloved animals with them on holiday or leave them at home. Dr. Annie Valuska, a certified applied animal behaviourist, offers guidance to help owners make this often difficult decision, ensuring that both pets and their owners enjoy their summer break.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(jpeg)/Curious-dog-in-the-back-seat-looking-outside-071326-c393defb0fcc4c379fdafc46bd169ac7.jpg)
The first consideration for pet owners should be assessing the suitability of their trip for their furry companions. Dr. Valuska emphasises the importance of evaluating a pet’s temperament and skills, noting that preparation significantly influences travel experiences. “If you believe your pet has the right temperament for travel but lacks specific skills, preparation becomes crucial,” she explains.
Before embarking on any trip, it is advisable for pet parents to consult their veterinarian. This step allows owners to confirm that their pets are up to date on vaccinations and health checks that may be necessary for the journey ahead. “Your vet can provide tailored advice on your pet’s fitness for travel, as well as precautions to take based on your destination, such as how to search for ticks if planning to go hiking,” Dr. Valuska advises.
Once the vet has given the green light, pet owners should begin to prepare for the journey itself. For instance, researching the pet policies of airlines or choosing an appropriate travel carrier is essential for both safety and compliance. “It’s critical to have a crate or carrier that meets safety standards, so familiarise yourself with the manufacturer’s guidelines before your trip,” Dr. Valuska adds.
A detailed plan should also be organised for when your pet is outside of their carrier, especially during airport security checks or road trip breaks. “Make sure you have a harness and leash at the ready to prevent any chance of escape. New environments can trigger unexpected behaviours, so it’s always best to prepare for the unexpected,” she notes.
For those unsure of their pet’s travel tolerance, Dr. Valuska recommends a gradual introduction to travel-related stimuli. “Begin with low levels of exposure to new experiences and increase intensity over time. Overwhelming your pet can lead to aversive reactions, making future travel more challenging,” she advises. Starting with familiarisation to the travel carrier at home and gradually extending this to short car trips can help build a positive association.
However, it is important to acknowledge that not all pets are suited to travelling. In some cases, leaving them at home may be a better option. Dr. Valuska outlines specific situations which warrant consideration of pet-sitting services instead of travelling together. These include pets with health concerns, those not yet trained for the various experiences of travel, and situations where owners will have limited quality time with their pets at the destination.
She suggests asking oneself if the pet will genuinely benefit from accompanying their owner. “If the benefits for your pet are unclear, it may be more prudent to arrange for a trusted sitter to look after them while you enjoy your trip,” she advises, reiterating that the ultimate goal is to ensure pets are happy during the summer season.
For those opting for a pet-sitter, Dr. Valuska has additional recommendations to enhance the experience for both the pet and the sitter. “Providing your sitter with comprehensive information about your pet’s routine will help maintain a sense of normalcy. Include details about medication, feeding schedules, and activities that your pet enjoys,” she suggests. A pre-visit between the pet and sitter can also create positive interactions that benefit both parties during the owner’s absence.
Ultimately, the aim is to ensure a fulfilling summer for pets, whether that means embarking on an exciting road trip with the family or enjoying the comforts of home with a familiar caregiver. With careful planning, pet owners can ensure their four-legged friends are content during the holiday, whatever the decision may be.