06/09/2024

We all know the journey of life is sweeter when travelled with a four-legged friend. And the same often goes for our family holidays. Sometimes our road trips aren’t quite complete unless the family pet goes too. 

Travelling with your pet can be great fun, but it can also be stressful if you aren’t well prepared. Make your next adventure safe and memorable, for all the right reasons, with our top tips for travelling with your furry companion. Afterall life is not just about where you go, it’s who you travel with.

Safe Travels

Safety is always a priority when travelling with your furry companions. Safe travel is fun travel. Keep you and your pet safe with these travel tips.

Leave the front seat for humans

Keep your pet in the back seat. If an airbag deploys while your pet is in the passenger seat (even in a crate), they might be injured or worse. Plus, if your furry friend is in the back seat, you are less likely to be distracted.

Don’t let dogs roam the car

In Australia, it is an offence to drive with your pet on your lap. The safest way for your dog to travel is in a crate anchored by a seat belt or suitable alternative. RSPCA statistics reveal that 5,000 dogs are injured or killed every year as a result of jumping from a moving car. Keeping your pup restrained reduces the risk of injury to both of you.

Cats belong in carriers

It is always safest to have your cat confined while you are driving. Keep in mind that cats are sensitive to their environments and cope best when they feel safe and secure. Line your cat’s carrier with an absorbent sheet for any accidents along the way.

Comfort Rules

Holiday’s must be comfortable, otherwise they’re not holidays, right? Use these tips to help make sure you, and your four-legged travel-mate, are happy and relaxed.

Give your pet plenty of rest stops

Stop frequently to allow both you and your pet to stretch your legs, have a sniff around, and have a toilet break. Don’t forget doggy bags, and a lead. You might like to make a note of parks, rest stops and pet friendly destinations before you leave too.

Don't leave your pet alone in the car

Pets are highly susceptible to heatstroke. According to the RSPCA, you can lose your best mate in just six minutes, even if your windows are down or your car is in the shade.

Bring your own water

Animals can become dehydrated during travel so bring a travel water bowl or dispenser so that your pets can drink whenever they need to. Keep in mind that water may not always be available where you stop.

Be Prepared

‘Just in case’ can be the bane of packing for a trip – unless you are packing for your pet. When travelling with your little (or not so little) mood-booster preparation is key.

Pack a travel bag

Make sure everything your pet needs is within easy access, including a leash, toys, food, medications, treats, water, and bedding. If travelling with your feline friend, you might like to carry extra absorbent sheets and disposable gloves for accident cleanup too. ID tags with up-to-date contact details should be safely secured to your pet too, just in case the unthinkable happens and they go exploring without you.

Feed me

Great nutrition underpins the kind of jumping-for-joy vitality you want for your pets – at home and on a trip. Quality nutrition is always a priority. Exactly how much food to pack depends on the type of trip you are taking and the needs of your pet. If you are travelling through remote areas, you might need to bring extra food. Portions can be measured out before you travel too, to make feeding on-the-go a little more straightforward. Don’t forget to bring food dishes.

Pack Your Kitties Litterbox

When taking your kitty-cat on a road trip, it can be helpful to bring a familiar litterbox and litter from home. Cats are very sensitive to scents, and asking your cat to use a different type of litter or litterbox may lead to accidents on the road or at your destination.

Pets really can make the best travel companions – especially when well considered in your travelling planning, and well cared for along the way. Preparation is key to enjoying the journey.  Safe travels!

Travel with pets

https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/road-trips-and-car-travel-with-your-cat

https://www.rspcapetinsurance.org.au/pet-care/guides/pet-travel-guide

https://www.rspcaqld.org.au/blog/pet-care/pets-and-the-law

https://www.dogculture.com.au/rules-and-regulations-for-car-travel-with-your-dog/

*DISCLAIMER:

The information provided in this article is intended as a guide only. Information contained in this article has been provided by the manufacturer/ You should not rely on the information in this article, and it should not be considered advice. You should seek professional advice regarding relevant factors specific to your situation. This article does not take into account variable conditions that may impact performance. Always read and follow label directions before