How to Make Traveling With an Elderly Pet an Enjoyable Experience
Pets love to be with their humans as much as possible, and while sometimes it’s necessary to board them for short periods of time, you may get great enjoyment from taking them along with you. Short trips, vacations, and even long-distance traveling can be made simple with some preparation. Advance planning is really the key, especially if you’re traveling with an elderly pet. PetFriendlyTravel.com can be a valuable resource when you’re hitting the open road with your furry friend.
Things to Consider
Elderly pets have unique needs you’ll want to keep in mind when you’re traveling. There may be mobility, sight, or hearing issues to contend with. In these cases, you need to be mindful of keeping them on a leash and ensuring you’re not asking them to walk long distances, over rough terrain, or up and down stairs. According to Dog Food Guide, older pets may also be on special diets, in which case you’ll need to make sure you have their food with them at all times, or at least easy access to their brand. Don’t forget about medications. If you have an older pet who needs to take a regular supplement or prescription medication, always keep it on hand, regardless of whether you’re traveling for a week or an afternoon.
Short Day Trips
If you’re just taking your pet with you to run local errands, start out by making short trips close to home to ensure they don’t get carsick or have a difficult time navigating with you. According to the American Kennel Club, you’ll never want to leave your pet in a car unattended, even for a brief period of time. The inside temperature can quickly change, putting your beloved fur baby at risk of injury. Look for pet-friendly places to visit, shop, or dine, and always make sure you’re keeping your pet well under control when out in public places. This is smart for your pet and for others, particularly if an elderly animal has any type of vision or hearing issues that might make them snappish if startled.
Long-Distance Travel
If you’re traveling with your pet over a long period of time, be patient with them, and watch for cues that they’re getting tired. Don’t push your elderly pet beyond its limits. If they’re whining, fidgeting, barking, or crying, it’s a good indication they’ve had enough for the day. While regular bathroom breaks are a necessity, a waterproof bed is also critical, particularly for incontinent pets and those that have joint issues, in which case a memory foam bed can help soothe aching bones. If driving, you’ll also want to consult a map and plan regular stops. Many rest areas and even convenience centers have dog-friendly spaces and amenities nearby. Be a good pet parent and carry baggies to clean up after your pet at all times.
Vacation Travels
If you’re flying, ask about the ability to have your pet in the cabin with you, which will be much more comfortable than having them travel in a cargo hold, which can be stressful and difficult for older pets. If your pet has any anxiety around travel, ask your veterinarian for a safe sedative to utilize during this time, and get the name of a recommended emergency vet in the city you’ll be staying. It goes without saying your pet should be microchipped and have identification on them at all times, in the event that they become separated from you during your travels. Also check which hotels, motels, and rental properties allow pets on-site. Many will make accommodations for small animals, with an added fee attached.
Pets love spending time with us and often enjoy being out and about. Even though it’s best to get them acclimated to being in public when they are young, even senior pets, who tend to be less energetic than their younger counterparts, can enjoy the opportunity to be with you and socialize. Taking them along also eliminates the potential for anxiety, loneliness, and disease transmission that can happen at boarding facilities.
PetFriendlyTravel.com provides a wealth of information that can make your pet travels a success. From links to pet-friendly lodging to recommended pet travel products and dog park locators, you’ll find it all here!
About the author
Nick Burton is the co-creator of Our Best Doggo. Together with his wife, they are proud parents of three rescue dogs. After the passing of their 15-year-old lab/terrier mix dog, Willie, they decided to create this website to share all types of dog information and help people that are mourning the loss of a dog.
