While we are travelling, our pets are usually left at home, taken care of by someone else. Or if you choose to bring your pet with you, it could turn out to be a time and effort consuming task, if not even troublesome. However, if you know how to do it right, your pet can be your ideal companion. Let’s have a look at some tips for you to travel with your pet in an effortless and fun way.

1. Get a pet crate

It can be hard at first for your pet to feel comfortable in their travel crate, especially during long-distance trip. Therefore, you can start with placing the bottom portion of the crate in your living room or another common area where your pet likes to spend time. Once they get more comfortable, add the top of the crate, and then the door. After that, start with short-distance trips to train your pet gradually. Don’t forget to put some treats and toys into the crate so your pet can feel more at ease.

2. Know the cost

If you’re on a road trip with your own car, there would be no extra cost for your pet. But if travelling by plane, the cost can be an issue. You should compare the prices offered by different airlines, as they can be really varied.

3. Contact the airline in advance to let them know you’re travelling with pets

Before booking your tickets, call the airline to confirm whether you can travel with pets or not. Though you can totally find this information on the airline’s website, it’s best to call and ask them directly. Most airlines have a limitation for the number of pets allowed on the cabin, so you should contact them as soon as possible and confirm the information at least 48 hours before the flight. If travelling by bus or train, then it’s easier to bring your pet with you. You only need to make sure there would be no inconvenience for other passengers as well as ask the driver nicely before the trip, then you would have a memorable and comfortable trip with your beloved pet.

4. Let your pet get used to the transportation

Your pet will possibly feel nervous and scared before the trip. With bus or train trip, it could be easier to let your pet get used to the type of transportation 3-5 days before the actual trip by bringing them onto buses or trains around the city. However, it could be more complicated for flights. What you can do is to bring your pet to bus or train stations so they can get used to the movements and the crowds, after that they can easily get over the fear. Remember that sleeping pills are really harmful for your pet, so trying to find a way for your pet to be calm during the whole trip is the best solution.

5. Go to the vet

Though most Vietnam’s domestic airlines don’t require that you pets need to get vaccine beforehand, it’s still important to have an appointment with the vet. Make sure you’ve got your pet all the necessary vaccines with certificates. Bring with you a pet first-aid kit in case your pet gets sick during the trip. Finally, you should get the contact information of one of the vets around the destination to which you are heading.

Besides, you should also consult the vet about a suitable diet for your pet. Depending on their size, breed and age, each pet will need a different way to take care of.

6. Use nametag

Using nametag for your pet can make it much easier for the staff to recognize your pet in case of missing, especially when you are travelling by plane. Information such as the flight number and your contact information should be tagged on the pet crate. You should also put a nametag on the pet collar in case the crate gets lost.

7. Exercise

The day before the trip, take time to walk your dog around the neighborhood or the park, so that the next day, they will be so tired and sleep for the whole trip. So, be your pet’s companion for a long and exciting exercise the day before, and your trip will be much easier the day after.

8. Food and water

Long-distance trips can make your pet terribly dehydrated. Before the trip, freeze water into ice cubes to ensure enough water for the waiting time. According to the requirement of many airlines, you have to make sure to have enough food and water for your pet for at least four hours of procedure.

9. Do research on the hotel you’re staying

Make sure you understand all the rules about pets of the hotel you’re staying, as many don’t accept to have pets. In all popular tourist destinations such as Hanoi, Da Nang, Phu Quoc, Dalat, or Ho Chi Minh City, there are always hotels which allow pets, so make sure to do your research and book the most suitable room for you and your pet.

10. Be flexible and far-sighting

You need to be patient and flexible when travelling with your pet. Be prepared for any incidents that might happen such as flight being canceled, your pet getting sick or crate getting lost. So you can always be in the proactive position in all situations. Travelling with pets wouldn’t be a problem anymore if you can foresee unexpected cases.

It’s not easy travelling with pets in Vietnam, so being prepared and planning beforehand are very important for a safe trip. That being said, don’t be too worried, just be calm and enjoy every moment of the trip with your pet. Everything will be alright and fun!