This article is sponsored by Gifted Healthcare®

Pets on Your Next Travel Nurse Assignment

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.

3.) Have your pet’s information handy –

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.

5.) Purchase ID Tags –

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.

1.) Find a pet-friendly hotel –

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.

4.) Update your pet’s information –

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:

START HERE

Travel Nurse Guide: Step-by-Step (now offered in a PDF Downloadable version!)

I know that many travel nurses travel with a spouse or significant other and began wondering what it was like for those that tag along. There isn’t really any support system for this unique group of people, and I wanted to provide insight into what it is like and the daily challenges for this group of people.

What is a tag-a-long? I originally found the term when I was researching travel nursing blogs. I found a blog of a self-proclaimed ‘tag-a-long and loved the term. (I’ve searched back through my internet history and can’t find the link, so if this is you, please contact me, and I’ll give the appropriate link! UPDATE: I have found the source! Stay tuned next week for the interview with the Original TagALong!) Many travel nurses travel with a significant other, a spouse, a close friend, or another family member. These are tag-a-longs. I wanted to find out what it’s like to live the Travel Nurse life as a Tag-A-Long, and here is what I found out.

Thanks go to Sam, a self-proclaimed ‘best-friend tag-a-long who agreed to answer a few questions. Sam has been tagging along since July 31st, 2010, Almost 2.5 years.

Here is what Sam had to say about living the Travel Nursing Life as a tag-a-long:

Why did you choose to live a life of Travel Nursing?

My wife Kristen (A Travel Physical Therapist) and I wanted to explore the country before we had obligations such as a mortgage or children. We both didn’t travel many places growing up and have been inspired by other friends to get out and see the world. As we see more things and live in more places, I feel like we are able to get a better perspective on the world.

Do you work? From Home/Internet?

I own a small Mobile and Web Application development company, Handstand Technologies (http://handstandtech.com), where I do consulting and build products. I work primarily at home but occasionally at a client’s office, depending on my current works. I’ve found some of my work through my existing connections, some through recruiters, and other work through new contacts I’ve met while traveling. In my spare time over the last year, I’ve been developing a web and mobile application to help licensed healthcare professionals keep track of their licenses, CEUs, and work history. My wife’s work inspired this idea as a traveler. There are too many things to keep track of, and no easy way to do it. I’m developing this suite of tools to help travelers and other health care professionals. I’m looking to release this at the end of January. If anyone is interested in this or has anything else they’d like to see done, I’d be happy to hear from them by email (sam AT handstandtech.com).

What do you do when your Travel companion is working?

I work at home or at a client’s office. I try to work the same hours as my wife when I can.

Do you get bored?

Bored of traveling? No. But I do have a desire to set more roots and have something to call our own. We travel around with only what fits in our two cars, so it’s necessary to be minimalist. It’s really great, but it’s started to wear on you as time goes on. We feel like we have another 2 years of traveling in us, but we might end up settling down after that.

What do you do to keep active/entertained?

We go running and check out local places. We try to do new things as much as we can since we live in areas we have never been to before. We are currently in the San Diego area, and I’ve bought a wet suit and surfboard. I don’t know when I’ll ever live somewhere where I can go surfing whenever I want, so you need to embrace what the area has to offer and try to enjoy it.

Do you utilize local clubs or groups like meetup.com

I generally try to find other people in the mobile/web/software industry using meetup.com and have been successful at finding a few people everywhere we go.

What is the biggest challenge for you?

The logistics in moving a lot. You need to be ready to move with just a few days notice. I’m generally in charge of finding housing, setting up utilities, etc. The most notice we’ve ever had about an assignment was about 2.5 weeks, and the shortest was 4 days. You must be able to “go with the flow” and figure out what the next best step is. Finding housing can be a really big challenge if you decide to do it on your own. We’ve opted to find our own housing for every assignment because we can generally find something cheaper than the stipend or find something that really works well. When getting housing through your company, you will get something decent, but you run the risk of not finding a place you really like.

What is the best benefit for you?

Freedom and exploration. We are getting to do things that most people will never do. We have lived in 6 states so far and want to do a few more. South Carolina, North Carolina, Virginia, Massachusetts, Texas & California

What advice would you give to someone considering the life of a Tag-a-long?

Do it. If you can find a way to make enough money to get by and not go crazy, it’s an amazing opportunity to explore the country with a friend/partner/etc. I would recommend this for anyone who is able to do short-term contract work. The priceless part about it is the extended breaks between contracts. Working a full-time job year-round is exhausting and having a break between contracts help you recharge for your next assignment.

What term do you refer to yourself as? Tag-A-Long, Side-kick, etc?

“Best Friend”. It’s important to travel with someone who you can get through things with. More than likely, you will not know anyone else when you get to your new assignment so you will interact even more with your traveling companion. Be sure to travel with someone you can live with, get along with, and still enjoy each other’s company.

Is there something unique that you do, collect or save from your travels?

Kristen and I take a picture of everywhere we go and have all of this saved on a map. I do handstands, and she does Jump-kicks.

I asked Sam for a photo or two to add to the article and he blew me away with his and Kristen’s Jump/Handstand photos. I couldn’t choose just one, so I’ve posted the link for you to check them out. What a fun way to capture the moment!

You can check out the photos on a map at http://handstandsam.onamap.net and http://jumpkicker.onamap.net.

Are you a healthcare provider or nurse that travel with a spouse? I would love to hear your ‘tag-a-long story; if you are interested in contributing by sharing your story contact me.

This article is provided by Premier Medical Staffing Services, LLC ®

Tips to stay safe on the road

Travel nurses are often drawn to their careers because of the excitement and adventure of living in different places. This also means that they leave their friends and family behind for a while. Pets often help fill that gap and provide companionship to ease the transition. As a result, many travel nurses embark on their assignments with their faithful friend at their side.

Traveling with your Cat or Dog

While people are quite accustomed to long car rides and travel, it can put unusual stress on dogs and cats. It’s important to realize that they can experience many of the same symptoms as humans when anxiety levels rise. Animals can suffer from increased blood pressure, motion sickness and nausea, nervous trembling, and digestive irregularities. Keeping pet health a top consideration for your trip will help them feel better and you worry less. Here are some important things to keep in mind when traveling long distances with your dog or cat.

5 Safety tips for traveling with your cat

1.) The safest way to travel with your feline is in a well-ventilated carrier when in your vehicle. It may seem unfair, but most cats are unsettled during travel. The tendency to jump around and crawl into small spaces to hide can pose a risk to the cat and driver. Despite the initial resistance to getting in the carrier, once inside and in a strange place cats often find comfort in smaller confinement.

2.) Set the carrier out at home so the cat can get familiar with it then introduce practice trips. Place a blanket that smells of home inside for added comfort. Secure the carrier in your vehicle so it cannot fall or tip over. Start with a very short drive and then gradually increase the distance. Keep the environment calming and as comfortable as possible by avoiding loud music and careful temperature control that does not blow into the carrier.

3.) Feed your cat about 3-4 hours prior to departure then plan ahead for feedings at their normal times. If your cat’s diet includes fresh food you will need to ensure it stays cold with ice packs. If a cooler isn’t feasible or too much trouble for the trip, you may consider canned food. If you plan to change the diet, it is important that you transition to the new food well in advance of travel. Take water from home so your cat stays hydrated and avoid stomach issues from strange water sources.

4.) For trips under 6 hours, your cat will be fine in the carrier the entire time. For longer travel, let your cat out of the carrier periodically to get a drink of water and use the litter box. Always make sure you are parked and never have a sunroof or windows open where the cat can escape.

5.) When you finally arrive at your destination, try to create an area in a room that is familiar. Use blankets, toys, items that smell and look like the previous home. Then although you might be busy with the move, be sure to give your cat frequent attention to help them settle in and be comfortable.

5 safety tips for traveling with your dog

1.) Get to know how your dog reacts to the car by letting him explore and taking short drives in your driveway or parking lot. Decide if a crate or harness is necessary for safety or state laws. If your dog remains calm, keep the dog out of the front seat and never travel with him on your lap. Distractions can sadly cause accidents and deployed airbags could potentially kill your pet. Avoid loud music or noises in the vehicle and be sure there is fresh air at an appropriate temperature at all times.

2.) Although they may seem to love the breeze, don’t let your pet to ride with his head outside the window. Small amounts of dust, rocks, or any flying object can cause injury.

3.) Before travel, ensure your dog gets enough exercise and is not full of pent up energy. Feed at least a few hours before and allow time for a potty break. This will help avoid restlessness and carsickness.

4.) Provide a few chew toys or new playthings to keep your dog occupied. You can also place a favorite blanket or a shirt that you recently wore to make a comfortable spot.

5.) Take breaks often. While your dog may need to potty more frequently, four hours is the maximum time you should travel without a break. Take your dog out on a leash at all times. Offer them water and a small snack and try to allow for some exercise with a walk or some short jogs.

5 best practices for traveling with any pet

1.) If your travel will require overnight stays be sure to research accommodations that welcome pets. Since many hotels have a limited number of pet-friendly rooms, try to call ahead for a reservation to ensure you will have the proper room.

2.) Make sure your pet is wearing a collar with a current ID tag. If possible, get your pet microchipped before a long trip.

3.) Put together a travel kit for your pet with appropriate paperwork, vaccine records, food, fresh water, bowls, treats, a harness and leash, and any supplements or medications, basic first aid items.

4.) Pack cleaning supplies in case of potty accidents or vomit episodes. Bring items to clean litterbox if traveling with a cat.

5.) Never leave your animal alone in a parked vehicle for more than a few minutes. Even with the windows open, a parked vehicle gets very hot quickly on warm days and can cause heatstroke. In cold weather, a car can hold in the cold and cause the animal to freeze to death.

We hope you found these tips for traveling with your cat or dog.

Gypsy,

What does it take for a travel nurse to take a pet to Hawaii? I’ve heard so many different stories, I don’t know what to believe? Can I avoid the pet quarantine in Hawaii?

Tonya

Taking a pet to Hawaii requires some pre-planning but it isn’t impossible. Many believe that “The dog will probably have to be quarantined for a month before he can live with you.” There is some truth to this statement and the quarantine can actually be as long as 120 days!. Don’t despair, there are ways to get around the ‘mandatory’ pet quarantine in Hawaii.

Because Hawaii is a rabies-free Island, they have strict rules governing the import of pets in order to maintain the Island(s) as rabies-free. You can’t blame them for wanting to protect the island from this disease!

So….how do you avoid the mandatory quarantine?

Hawaii has procedures in place for a “5-day-or-less quarantine” This reduced quarantine does enable you to potentially take your pet ‘home’ once it’s cleared by the Animal Quarantine Holding Facility if all of the requirements are met and verified.

The pet must have been vaccinated at least two times for rabies in its lifetime.
These rabies vaccines were administered more than 30 days apart.
90 Days must have elapsed after the last rabies vaccine before your pet arrives in Hawaii
The dates and type of vaccine must be listed on the pets Health Certificate

Our Facebook Network Group member Amanda just successfully arrived in Hawaii with her furry friend and avoided the Pet Quarantine (May 2017)

Amanda recommends:

“As far as the original rabies vacation papers go they require an original ink signature, the vaccines name, lot or serial number, booster interval, vaccines date and lot expiration date. My vet had to call the vaccine company because they did not put the lot expiration date on the paperwork. So people need to make sure that the paperwork has all the needed information.”

The pet must be microchiped. This must be done before the OIE-FAVN (see below) is drawn.
Microchip must be able to be verified. (Have your vet check)
The pet must have blood drawn for a OIE-Flourescent Antibody Serum Neutralization Test (OIE-FAVN).
- This test assesses for the adequate response to the rabies vaccine. The test takes 120 days to process. Your pet must complete the required 120 waiting period from the day after the approved facility receives the sample before it can enter Hawaii in order to be eligible for the reduced quarantine.
- There are only 2 approved facilities for this test in the US. Kansas State University or the DOD Food Analysis and Diagnostic Laboratory in Texas. If you are not near one of these facilities, your local lab will have to send the sample to one of these facilities.
- The day after the approved facility (above) receives your pets sample must be at least 120 day and not more than 36 months from the date of the pets arrival in Hawaii.
- NOTE: The waiting period begins the day after KSU or DOD received the blood sample for the OIE-FAVN test.
Original copies of all documents, including:
- Completed and Notarized Import Form AQS-278
- Both recent rabies vaccines (originals)
- Health Certificate (completed within 14 days of arrival in Hawaii)
- Veterinarian treatment for ticks within 14 days of arrival in Hawaii

Hawaii Animal Quarantine Information FAQ

5 Day or Less Quarantine – Checklist

The rules are quite specific. The above is simply a summary of the process. I would recommend that you print the guidelines and checklist and take them with you to your Vet to help the process move a little smoother.

As you can see from the above summary, getting your pet to Hawaii is a long enduring process. It’s also quite expensive. You may want to consider finding a responsible friend or loved one to care for your pet for you while you enjoy a 3-month working vacation in Hawaii.

TIP: The quarantine center is only open till 4:30. If you want to take your dog home the same day you need to get in earlier otherwise the animal has to stay overnight. – Amanda

I love hearing the opinions of my readers. Your opinion could be the perfect solution for someone. Please share your thoughts below in the comments. Do you have a question? Feel free to contact us.

Road Tripping To Your Next Destination

1.) Do a test run –

2.) Get a pet seat belt –

3.) Have your pet’s information handy –

4.) Keep them hydrated –

5.) Your pet needs bathroom stops too –

Flying With Fido

1.) Do your research –

2.) Find a TSA and airline approved carrier –

3.) Talk to your vet –

4.) Prepare to pay the fees –

5.) Purchase ID Tags –

6.) Walk your cat or dog before flying –

7.) Always keep your pet’s safety in mind –

Arriving At Your Destination

1.) Find a pet-friendly hotel –

2.) Make sure your future home takes pets –

3.) Prepare to pay hefty deposits –

4.) Update your pet’s information –

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!)

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Why did you choose to live a life of Travel Nursing?

Do you work? From Home/Internet?

What do you do when your Travel companion is working?

Do you get bored?

What do you do to keep active/entertained?

Do you utilize local clubs or groups like meetup.com

What is the biggest challenge for you?

What is the best benefit for you?

What advice would you give to someone considering the life of a Tag-a-long?

What term do you refer to yourself as? Tag-A-Long, Side-kick, etc?

Is there something unique that you do, collect or save from your travels?

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5 safety tips for traveling with your dog

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