Medical Traveling Hacks: Traveling with Pets
It is common for medical professionals to travel for their job in today’s world. However, it does not matter what type of medicine you practice; whether you are a traveling nurse, you work in physical therapy or are traveling to a new hospital, clinic, or urgent care center, what is important is how to travel for your medical job while maintaining the rest of your life. If you have pets, you will want to have them with you, especially if you are traveling for long periods of time. Keep reading to learn how to fly with your pets, drive with them, and some general Tips & Tricks.
Flying With Pets
If you work in healthcare as a recruiter or a nurse, you might have to travel often and far. Whether you have to get somewhere quickly or the distance you are traveling is far, driving may not be feasible. In these cases, you will want to know exactly how to travel with your pets safely and efficiently.
Book Your Flight ASAP
Each flight only has so much space for people, pets, and fright. Because of this, it is essential to book as soon as possible, as they may only have room for a specific number of pets.
Go Direct, When Possible
If you want to save money, book a direct flight. Many airlines charge a pet travel fee per flight. If you have a connection, you will have to pay that fee twice! Compare the cost of getting a direct flight versus how much the pet fee will add up.
Another reason to go direct is that this will save you from additional stress and hassle. Sometimes it can be challenging to make connecting flights, especially if one plane is behind schedule. If you are flying into a large airport with a considerable distance between the departure gate and the new one, getting to your new gate on time can be difficult. Rushing through the airport carrying a pet carrier will only add to your stress!
Understand The Airlines Rules and Follow Them Perfectly
Do not show up at the airport without knowing all their rules and that you are in 100% compliance with these rules. Here are some things you will need to consider:
Have all required vaccination paperwork (including proof your pet is up to date on vaccines required in the states you will be flying out of and the ones you are flying into).
Have all the medical records of your pet.
Have proof that your pet is microchipped.
Have an approved (by the airline) pet carrier.
Driving With Pets
If your work in the healthcare field allows you to only have to travel shorter distances, you might forego the airport altogether and choose to drive. While driving, you will have more control of the environment, but you will still need to follow these simple tips & tricks!
Your Pet Needs to be in a Carrier or Otherwise Restrained
Even if it seems like this is a fun road trip for you and your pet, remember that you will need to have total control over the vehicle at all times. This means that you should not be driving with a pet on your lap, and they need to be restrained during the ride. This is for everyone’s safety and to ensure that you are entirely focused on driving. If you get distracted, accidents could happen.
Be Prepared for Extra Stops
Even if you can drive for 6 or 8 straight hours without a bathroom break or the need to stretch your legs, that does not mean your pets can. Design your trip with extra stops in mind. Give yourself and your pet all the time you need to make this a comfortable and happy trip together.
Always stay With Your Pet
Many pet owners will “crank the window” and leave their pets unattended in the car for long periods. This is not a healthy environment for pets. They will have a more challenging time regulating their temperature or breathing, especially when the outside weather is warm or cold. Think about how a vehicle feels when you first get in it in the winter or summer. Now imagine staying in that vehicle without heat or air-conditioning. This is what your pet will feel.
8 General Pet Travel Tips & Tricks
Sometimes it is not just about how you get from one place to another. There are other things to consider as well.
1 – Make a travel list of everything you will need.
2 – Purchase special no-spill bowls and dishes to feed them and give them water during the trip.
3 – Contact the company they were microchipped through and let them know the animal will be traveling.
4 – Consider purchasing pet insurance in case of emergency strikes while away from home.
5 – Consult your personal veterinarian before travelling for additional general tips as well as advice about your specific animal.
6 – Bring extra supplies. Baking soda can help with smells if your pet has an accident in the car. Ice cubes can help cool a pet down.
7 – Don’t forget the toys. Traveling with a pet for a long trip is like traveling with children. Give them things for comfort and entertainment, such as new toys, favorite toys, or their favorite blanket.
8 – Pre-portion all meals so you can grab a portion and pour when needed.
Bottom Line
Even if traveling with a pet seems complicated, it can be done. There is no reason your healthcare or medical job should separate you from your fur babies. It just takes a little extra planning on your part to be able to travel with your pet wherever you go.