Pets are a part of the family, and the need to take them with you when travelling overseas is understandable. However, travelling abroad with your pet can be a challenging and stressful experience for both of you. Pets are especially vulnerable to stress and anxiety because of exposure to new and potentially harsh experiences and environments – and a stressed pet means a stressed owner.
Fortunately, your pet is not helpless – you can take several measures to make travelling abroad a safe and less stressful experience. Here is a brief overview of how travelling stresses pets out and four tips on preventing and managing pet stress when travelling abroad.
Why is travelling abroad stressful for pets?
Travelling abroad usually entails flying, which can be a strange experience for your pet. Flying causes a wide and wild range of changes to the pets’ environment, especially if they are flying in the cargo hold. The most common variations are changes in pressure as the plane changes altitude levels and extreme temperature fluctuations, ranging from freezing cold to scorching hot.
Travelling with your pet in the cargo holder also means that you will be separated from each other for several hours – and your pet will be locked in a cage during the flight. This can leave your pet feeling lonely and confused, adding to the stress caused by physical changes to their environment.
How to make travelling easier for your pet
Flying doesn’t have to be a dangerous or stressful experience for your pet. Here is an overview of four things you can do to keep them safe, calm, and relaxed:
1. Exercise before boarding
Too much energy and anxiety are a bad combination for pets. It can be especially bad if your pet tends to put up a fight when in frightening situations. However, exercising shortly before boarding can help put your pet’s excess energy to better use. Hopefully, the fatigue will help your pet sleep during the flight.
2. Keep them in the cabin
The cargo holder is prone to extreme changes in factors such as pressure and temperature. Transporting your pet in the cargo holder also means that you will be separated throughout the flight. This is why it is always prudent to choose an airline that can allow you to travel with your pet in the cabin.
3. Bring a comfort item
Flying puts your pet in an unfamiliar environment. Fortunately, bringing something that they are familiar with or a comfort item, such as a blanket, can help them feel safer, especially when travelling in the cargo holder.
4. Keep them occupied
Keeping your pet occupied can also distract them from the stresses and anxieties of flying. Using treats or toys is the best way to keep your pet occupied.
Pet Remedy for natural de-stressing
Pet Remedy offers the easiest and quickest solution to keep your pet calm and relaxed when travelling. It is a clinically proven natural remedy that helps calm pets without sedation. It also helps make pets more settled, attentive, and receptive to their owners. Pet Remedy is fast-acting and works for all pets, including dogs, cats, birds, rabbits, and horses.
Visit our website to learn more about how Pet Remedy can make flying with your pet an easier and more relaxing experience.
