How can I keep my dog or cat calm during travel?

Travelling is stressful for everyone, travelling with pets adds another level. It's very difficult for us to explain to them what's going on when the day of travel arrives but there are things that we can do to alleviate the anxiety and confusion as much as possible.

Preparation

The number one piece of advice that we can give pet parents is to get your crates or travel bags early! Get them as soon as you know you are likely to travel. Have them as "part of the furniture" so that when your departure date arrives they are not unfamiliar.

Once you have the crate, if it's one that splits into two, use the lower portion to put your dog or cat's bed in. Coax them in with treats and slowly let them get used to going to "bed" in the bottom section. Over time you can then add the upper half of the crate and again coax your pet in with treats or dinner. Everything we are doing is to create positive association with the crate so that when it comes to travel it will be a breeze.

Don't do the laundry

Your dog or cat's bed and blankets may stink but that is perfect for travel. It smells of them, smells familiar and will calm them during the journey. If you've been using this bedding for the crate training then even better.

Sweat a bit

Take a t-shirt that you are not too attached to and wear it in the weeks prior to the flight, without washing it. If you can sleep in it this is ideal. Popping this item of clothing into your dog or cat's travel crate will make an enormous difference to their stress levels. We see first hand how dramatically this simple tip

Bring in the heavy weights

If you have a particularly anxious pet it may be necessary to consult your veterinarian about non-sedating medications or homeopathic remedies. Generally if you have done the ground worth this won't be necessary but some pets, particularly those who are older or who already suffer from separation anxiety will benefit from some extra help.

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For more advise please feel free to get in touch!