How to Successfully Travel With Your Pet
Being a traveler requires a sense of adventure. For 13 weeks or more, you're living in a new city, meeting new friends, and contributing to a new hospital. Some travelers decide to bring their pets along as it gives them a sense of being home. Since many pets thrive on consistency and a stable environment, moving from place to place can take a toll on their health and their personality.
Long car rides, flying, and new homes may all trigger stress reactions. This list of strategies will help you create a more stable environment for your furry friend and protect their physical and mental health.
Start With Health Care
As you know, the best way to stay healthy is to make a plan and avoid getting sick. Be sure your pet has a check-up before you leave to ensure they start the trip healthy. Keep a copy of your pet's health records and be sure vaccinations are up to date. Ask your veterinarian for a recommendation for a veterinarian in your new area and identify any local emergency vet care clinics before you might need one.
If your pet is on special food, call stores in the new area ahead of time to be sure they carry the food in stock. Keeping your dog or cat on the same diet is an important way of helping to reduce stress. Some specialty pet stores are more inclined to order a brand they don't carry for your 13-week assignment. If necessary, you can find an online distributor and have it shipped to your new location. Consider getting your pet chipped and use an identification tag in case your furry friend gets lost in a new city.
Get Pet-Friendly Housing
Not all travel housing accepts pets, and some restrict breeds. In many cases, breed restrictions are based on the insurance company that covers the property. Although unfounded, some breeds have a reputation for "disturbing the peace." Before jumping in the car with your best friend, be sure they are welcome where you're staying.
Some housing may also require a pet deposit and charge more per week for "pet rent." Discuss these factors with your recruiter so they can help you acquire housing that works for you and your four-legged pal. If possible, try to get housing close to a doggy daycare facility and/or dog park with trails. Reducing your travel time to accommodate the needs of your pet will help both of you.
Arrive Early and Get Situated
Arrive several days early to help your pet get acquainted with their new home before you leave for a full shift. Bring their kennel and bedding they use at home to help them feel at home in their new space. Take the first few days to explore the new neighborhood. Find the local restaurants and shops that are pet-friendly and set up a daily routine, so your pet knows what to expect. If their daily schedule changes in your new location - when they go for walks or get fed - use these days to help them adjust. Run a few errands in the days before you start work to help them get used to being alone in their new home.
Days May Be Long For Your Pet
Doggy daycares and trusted neighbors are assets when you are gone long hours, or you've been asked to work a longer shift. At the end of your shift, you probably want nothing more than to get home and relax, but don't forget about your dog or cat who has missed you all day. A walk around the block or play session with your cat's favorite toy may be refreshing for both of you after a long day.
GetMed Recruiters Can Help Make Your Transitions Smooth
At GetMed Staffing, our professional recruiters are experts at answering your questions and helping you make smooth transitions between home and your next assignment. Call us today for a demonstration of how easy it is to work with experts!