You have an upcoming trip and want to bring your new puppy along. You are excited about your first trip together but want to know how it will happen. This is common with first-time pup parents. Travelling with a puppy is rewarding.
You will have many moments of adventure and bonding. However, it can be challenging if you don’t prepare well. But worry not. Below are tips for travelling with a puppy, whether on a road trip or flying to a new destination.
Puppies are scared of unfamiliar things and sounds. Putting them in a car for the first time and driving off will frighten them. Introduce the pup to the vehicle several weeks before your scheduled travel date. Get inside with it and let it sniff.
Once it gets comfortable in the car, take short trips. Also, if you are flying, gradually introduce the pup to areas with many people and noises to keep it manageable.
When travelling, your puppy will spend most of its time in a crate. You must help it see the crate as a safe and secure space. Make sure the crate is comfortable and well-ventilated. The dog should be able to stand, turn around, and lie down, but not so large that it can slide during trips. You can encourage it to get in by placing treats and toys.
Take your pup to a vet for a health checkup before travelling. The vet will recommend the required vaccinations, depending on where you travel. If travelling abroad, check the country’s website for dog vaccinations.
No matter how careful you are, your pet could slip away. If that happens, an ID tag with your contact details is the only chance of reuniting with your dog.
Pack everything you need for the trip to avoid forgetting anything. For the puppy, you will need a harness, dog seat belt, crate, leash, waste bags, collapsible food and water bowls, toys, a first aid kit, food, treats, and water. Brands like Ruffwear offer many useful products that will help with pet travel. You can also carry a dog backpack for the pup to carry essentials for long walks.
Carry all the necessary documents for your pup, including vaccination records or health certificates. Before booking your ticket, ensure the airline allows pets to travel with you. Enquire about their pet policy.
You don’t want your pup to travel on an empty stomach. However, you don’t want it to eat immediately before travelling because it can vomit. Give it food two to three hours before departure. Also, let it exercise so it is tired during the trip. This will keep it calm or asleep during the journey.
Restrain your pup in a crate or with a harness seat belt to keep it safe in the car. Could you give it some toys to keep it engaged? Talk to it regularly to ensure it’s safe.
When travelling by car, make regular stops and allow the pup to leave the crate to stretch and go to the bathroom. You can feed it now rather than when travelling but give it only small bites.
Give the pup water frequently to keep it hydrated throughout the trip.
Puppies are more likely to overheat in cars than older dogs or humans. If you travel during the summer, use air conditioning or open the windows slightly. Be careful when opening windows, as direct sunlight is also harmful. Moreover, please don’t let the dog stick its head out of the window, as it could be dangerous.
Most puppies get car sick when travelling for the first time. Luckily, it will stop as they get older. To prevent motion sickness, open the windows slightly to bring in fresh air, and don’t feed the pup when moving. You can also talk to your vet to prescribe medication that helps with motion sickness, like Dramamine or Meclizine.
The pup will be very anxious about the new environment. Take it around where you’ll stay to familiarize yourself with the place. Set up its resting area and place its blanket, toys, food, and water to create a sense of familiarity.
The puppy will feel more secure if you maintain a routine as close to home. Stick to regular feeding times, walks, and play sessions.
Travelling with a puppy for the first time can be challenging. However, it is a rewarding experience that you’ll both enjoy. Follow the tips above to make the experience smooth. Also, ensure you work with a reputable vet regarding vaccines and pup wellness.
