The holidays and road tripping are always an exciting time, especially if you've got your furbabies along for the ride with you! Although it may be tempting to just jump in the car to leave as soon as possible, there are many important things to consider, plan for and remember to ensure that your pet is happy and safe along the way. Whether your pet is a seasoned traveller or not, see our top tips below on how to prepare them for the trip ahead!

TRIAL RUN
It is a great idea to trial a few short car trips with your pet; especially if they have never travelled before. Some pets love the car and will settle in quickly. Others may experience anxiety, motion sickness or be unsettled.

Products like Adaptil can be used to alleviate anxiety associated with unfamiliar scents, sights and sounds. The Adaptil Spray contains a Dog Appeasing Pheromone which can be used in your dogs environment to help promote feelings of calm and wellbeing. Adaptil Spray can be sprayed directly on bedding, inside crates or in the car. For a trial run, simply spray 15 minutes prior to travel. Alternatively, the Adaptil Collar is perfect for longer trips as it continuously releases pheromones. 

Another recommendation is to have their favourite bed like the Pawpedics Orthopaedic Dog Bed, bedding, blankets and toys nearby as these are familiar to them; providing a source of comfort. Moreover, is important to give them reassurance and praise (even treats/toys) so that they associate this new experience as positive.

ENSURE YOUR PET IS HEALTHY
No matter where you are travelling to, it is incredibly important to ensure that your pets are protected against infectious diseases and parasites. On the eastern coastline in particular, paralysis ticks are prevalent during Spring and Summer. However, year-round tick protection is recommended in high risk areas.

There is a large range of prophylactic care available on the market including spot-ons, collars, tablets and chews. Our favourites are Nexgard Spectra, The Big 5 and Simparica Trio as they provide complete protection agains all of the major parasites including ticks, fleas, heartworm and intestinal worms.

If you're travelling for over a month at a time, it is important to remember to take an extra supply of prevention with you so that your pet remains protected.

Before you head off, check that your pet is up to date with their Vaccinations to protect them against infectious disease that your dog can develop or become infected with if they're not protected or overdue for their Vaccination.

Microchipping can save a lot of worry if you become separated from your pet at any time during your travels. It is important that all your details are up to date prior to leaving. Identification tags are also a good idea to have attached to your pet's collar. Your pet should also be registered via your local council.

SAFETY FIRST
To keep your pet safe in the car, it's important that they are restrained appropriately. This prevents injury if you brake suddenly and it also prevents them from jumping out of the vehicle if windows/doors are open. Ensure you plan ahead and research the road rules relevant to your state before you travel.

A travel crate can keep your pets contained whilst feeling safe in their own space. Harnesses and Car Restraints are also available on the market to safely restrain your pet inside your vehicle.

If you have an older or arthritic dog that has difficulty getting in and out of the car, dog ramps and steps can make it a lot easier for both of you.

CALMING AIDS AND NAUSEA REMEDIES
Not all pets enjoy car trips and for some, it can be a significant source of anxiety and stress. If this sounds like your pet, there are a range of calming aids that you can try. It's a good idea to try these well in advance of the main trip to see which one works best for them.

If your cat or dog suffers from motion sickness, there are many natural remedies that you can purchase from your local pet store that may help to ease nausea. However for more severe sickness, speak to your Veterinarian to seek more specific advice and so they may dispense medication.

Pheromones also have a role in some anxiety-related cases in our pets. Adaptil can also help with this.

FINAL CHECKLIST:

Hollie-Ann Rachow
Cert II AS, Cert IV VN
RVN (Registered Veterinary Nurse).