Road Trip With Pets: How To Care For Them Effectively
Road trip planning is stressful enough with all the work of packing, booking accommodation, and mapping routes. Therefore, traveling with your pet can make your trip extra challenging due to wellness concerns. According to the American Pet Product Association’s 2021-2022 National Pet Owners Survey, about 70% of American households own a pet. You will likely have to bring your furry friend on one of your trips if you can’t find a pet sitter or simply want to treat them to a memorable outdoor experience. Here are four reliable tips to stay on top of your pet’s wellness during road trips.
1. Calm them beforehand
You can let your animal engage in physical activity to expend energy and shake off nerves before taking them on your road trip, especially if this is their first time. A 2020 study published in the Journal of Nature revealed that less physically active dogs were more fearful in new situations than their more active counterparts. Therefore, amp up your pet’s physical activity in the buildup to your road trip by taking walks with them and enjoying a game of fetch. In addition, consider purchasing treats and soft chews for your pet from a CBD store to relax them before the trip.
2. Skip a meal on travel days
Several experts agree that it is normal for pets to be anxious and stressed out during road trips, irrespective of how accommodating you are. A common symptom of this anxiety and stress is diarrhea, one of the last things you want to deal with on a long road trip. Your pet can also suffer a stomach upset due to standard motion sickness. Therefore, consider feeding your furry friend less than usual to reduce the likelihood of accidents. You can simply skip the last meal you normally feed them before hitting the road to ensure their wellness throughout the trip.
3. Keep them secure during the trip
It is best not to let your pet sit on your lap or roam free in the car for everyone’s safety. The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) recommends putting all cats and small dogs in a carrier. If you own a big dog or cat that won’t effortlessly fit in a carrier, put them in a seat and attach their harnesses to the seat belts for restraint. Also, keep an eye on your pet to ensure they don’t poke their head out the window. Finally, never leave your pet unattended in the car, especially when traveling during summer. Depending on the state, it might be illegal to do this, but follow this tip irrespective of where you live because hundreds of pets die annually from being left in hot cars.
4. Keep pets hydrated
Hydration is crucial to wellness for humans and pets alike, so it is vital to ensure your pet gets enough and regular access to water throughout the trip. You can pack additional water for your pet and attach a bowl to their crate so they can self-regulate their water intake. Also, consider feeding them wet food and frequently stopping to give them a chance to drink more water.
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