Tips for travelling with your pet

Here are a few tips when planning to travel with your pet while on holiday.

Media spokesperson for the South African Veterinary Association Katya Guerra-Bayley said, “Planning a holiday trip or vacation can be stressful, no matter the circumstances. As Covid-19 brings international holidays to a halt, many South Africans are set to explore our diverse and captivating country this December. Families will want to include their family pet in their plans, which may introduce an entirely new set of challenges.” The association along with Dr Dean Sim from the South City Veterinary in Port Elizabeth shared these helpful tips to remember while travelling with your family pet.

• Preparation is key: To ensure a successful holiday make sure that your pet’s vaccinations are up to date, including deworming of parasites. Make sure that you also have calming medication for your pet. Make sure your pet is microchipped and also have a first-aid kit along with emergency numbers on hand.
• Make sure your destination is pet friendly: Do your research before going on holiday and create a list of activities you can do with your animal. Many beaches have different times for dog-friendly hours during peak in holiday so keep this mind. Also find out about any nature walks, country markets and pet-friendly restaurants where you will go on holiday.
• Prepare yourself if travelling by car: Many pets associate car travel with going to the vet, so ease your pet by taking shorter trips while at home. Keep a bed, blankets and toys to calm them down in the car and for when you settle in your destination. Always keep enough food and water for your pet in the car. Make sure to make regular stops and never leave them in the car when you stop due to extreme heat.
• Preparing for air travel: Should you opt to travel by airplane, check with the airline for pet travel policies, regulations and restrictions. You will need to have your pet thoroughly examined, dewormed and vaccinated. Make sure to have the correct type and size crate for them and place blankets and toys with them for comfort. If you pet is stressed by air travel, make sure to have number of a veterinarian at your destination
• Watch their health while on holiday: An important element to remember is the use of pet-friendly UV protection. Should your pet enjoy swimming in the ocean, remember to pack an appropriate ear rinse. This will prevent your animals from getting an ear infection from the water gathered when swimming. Ensure you pack eye rinse in case of sand coming into contact with their eyes when playing on the beach. Make sure to pack water and have regular shade if your dog is prone to heatstroke.

Details: www.sava.co.za