This article is sponsored by Gifted Healthcare®
There are many things to consider when making the jump to your next travel nursing assignment, especially if you’re a dog or cat parent. Recent events have shown how tragedy can strike a furry friend if his or her owner is not well-informed or prepared to travel with a pet.
Whether traveling by car or by plane, before embarking to your next travel nursing destination with your furry companion check out these tips and must do’s to make your traveling experience seamless, and most importantly, safe for you and your furry BFF.
Road Tripping To Your Next Destination
1.) Do a test run –
If your cat or dog isn’t used to going on car rides, go for a short ride to see if they behave well or are prone to getting car sick.
2.) Get a pet seat belt –
They can be a distraction for the driver, and they can get seriously hurt if they aren’t restrained during an accident.
Better safe than sorry, make sure you have an ID tag on your pet’s collar during the drive, and that you have their health history in case of an emergency.
4.) Keep them hydrated –
Don’t forget to bring cold water in the car for them. They can get dehydrated way faster than humans.
5.) Your pet needs bathroom stops too –
Don’t forget to walk your dog or cat at the service station so they can relieve themselves and get some exercise. This will keep them calm and your car clean!
Flying With Fido
1.) Do your research –
Flying with dogs and cats is getting harder and harder each day. Every airline has a different policy on weight restrictions, breed restrictions, carrier size, etc. This is especially true if you want your animal to fly with you in the cabin. Before purchasing your ticket for your next travel nursing assignment, be sure that your pet is in the clear to fly with you.
2.) Find a TSA and airline approved carrier –
Unless your pet is a service animal, he or she will need to travel in a carrier. Make sure the carrier you purchase will be approved at TSA and at the gate. If you have the time, you should even bring the carrier to a desk agent before flying to double-check you’re in the clear.
3.) Talk to your vet –
If you think your pet will be very anxious or could get aggressive during the travel process, ask your vet if there’s any form of tranquilizing medicine you can give him or her. The less anxious your dog or cat is during the flight, the better travel experience you will have as well.
4.) Prepare to pay the fees –
The only way to avoid an airline fee when traveling with an animal is if they are a service animal or emotional support animal (ESA). Be prepared to pay anywhere from $150-250 per pet when flying with them.
Be sure to attach all of your contact information to your pet’s carrier and to their collar.
6.) Walk your cat or dog before flying –
Remember, not every airport has a pet relief area.
7.) Always keep your pet’s safety in mind –
Every airline has different policies, but these can be interpreted differently by different members of the crew. Trust your instinct, and if instructed to do something with your pet that seems unsafe, ask to speak with a manager.
Arriving At Your Destination
Phew, you made it to your new home with your pets! It’s now time to find a place to stay that’s comfortable for you and your pets.
You’d be surprised how many pet-friendly hotels you’ll find these days in every city. Though most charge you a one-time pet deposit, a select few like the Aloft do not. Be sure to do your research before booking a room if they have any restrictions on the weight or number of animals per room.
2.) Make sure your future home takes pets –
Double and triple check with your Airbnb or your landlord if he or she is okay with you having pets.
3.) Prepare to pay hefty deposits –
Pet deposits vary in every city and by every landlord. From $100 per pet to even $500 per pet. Be sure to do your research and ask questions to avoid any unpleasant surprises.
Plenty of pet owners forget this crucial part. Make sure to get your pet updated ID tags and update their microchip information in case they wander off outside the house.
You and Fido are now all set to head over to your next travel nurse assignment. Bon, voyage!
If you are a new travel nurse or looking into becoming a travel nurse:
Travel Nurse Guide: Step-by-Step (now offered in a PDF Downloadable version!)
