Headed out on a getaway with your pet in tow? While traveling with pets, you might be focused on what to pack, how long you’ll be away, and having fun at your final destination. But a car accident or handling an emergency while traveling may sit further down on your list of concerns. When animals are involved, it’s imperative to keep their safety and health top of mind.
We’ve rounded up some pet travel safety tips, what to pack for your pet (besides the obvious treats and food!), and how AVSG Internal Medicine & Urgent Care can help if you find yourself in our area with a sick or injured pet.
Pet Travel Safety Tips
Whether traveling a short distance or heading out on a longer trip, it’s important to assess how your pet will handle the journey. Are they prone to car sickness? If using public transportation, do you have the correct travel documentation and approved pet carrier?
Here are a few pet travel safety tips to implement before you leave:
- If traveling by car, make sure your pet is properly harnessed with a pet-approved seatbelt or harness in the backseat. For small dogs and cats, a well-ventilated travel carrier will keep your pet securely in place.
- Securing your pet in place will prevent them from climbing into your lap while you’re driving and keep them safe if you’re in a car accident or fender bender.
- Take as many breaks as you can to offer your pet water, a snack, a stretch, and a chance to relieve themself.
- Never leave your pet in a car unattended no matter how quick your time away will be. Cars tend to heat up quickly! And for pets with separation anxiety, this can cause unnecessary stress.
- Spend time before your trip reviewing your pet’s microchip information and identification tags to make sure the information is correct and the chip is active.
Pet Health and Safety Travel Essentials
You wouldn’t leave your house for an extended amount of time without your phone, personal care items, or identification. The same should go for your pet! Keep this list of pet health and safety travel essentials handy for your next trip:
- Proper identification, travel documentation, and proof of pet ownership.
- Food and water bowls.
- Pet food, treats, and waste bags.
- A well-stocked pet first aid kit and any medication your pet may be taking.
- A pet carrier and pet seatbelt.
- A list of animal emergency hospitals or urgent care clinics along your route and/or at your final destination(s).
Urgent Care Services – For a Staycation in Orange County, California
If you choose to have a “Staycation” here in Orange County, know that with AVSG’s urgent care services, you have an emergency room alternative when your primary care veterinarian is unavailable. Offering same-day treatment of illnesses and injuries, our veterinarians and clinical team’s training, expertise, and compassion have earned the trust of our pet community.
While no appointment is necessary for urgent care, we ask that you call us before you come over so we can prepare for your visit.
Happy Travels!