Travel tips for pets travelling
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Do not feed pets on the day of travel unless medically required, or unless they have ample opportunity to toilet well in advance of the departure time. |
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Do not exercise your pet excessively prior to departure, light exercise is OK however heavy exercise will increase the requirement for re hydration |
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For domestic pet travel use a plastic bottle devoid of any labelling or adhesive from labels; fill it with water and deep freeze in the days leading up to departure. Secure the frozen bottle with cable ties to the inside of the container. Condensation created with a defrosting bottle allows pets to lick at the bottle for comfort re hydration during the trip. |
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International pets are regulated by the Live Animal Regulations to have access to water at all times, this is generally delivered by a drinking vessel secured to the door of the travel container with an external funnel to top the drinker up without having to open the door en route. |
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When collecting new additions or being reunited with your family pet it is easy to be caught up in the moment. Before taking the pet from the airport or from the delivery agent always check the container for essential documentation such as vaccination certificates, comfort items such as blankets, or care advice from breeders when it is a pup or kitten. |
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When collecting from the airport ensure you have photographic identification for yourself and be prepared to sign for your loved one when accepting from airline staff. For those collecting pets on international flights please note there will be charged (depending on the country of arrival) for Veterinary Inspections / Customs / Duties and excise. |
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On arrival to your residence please ensure there are plenty of watering stations until they become familiar with their surroundings. Equally it is important not to over feed them once they get home. Smaller meals provided on regular basis till they are satisfied are preferable to a large meal that may cause medical issues such as twisted guts. For pets arriving from international flights you may notice a change in demeanour, pets do suffer from jetlag!! However their intake of liquids and solids should be monitored in the 72 hours after arrival, should they ‘not be eating or drinking properly veterinary attention should be sought. |
It is these and much more advice APAT can provide to limit the stress on all involved.
