Tips for Traveling with Your Pet
Pets can make great companions for people and can be particularly comforting when venturing into the nomad life of travel nursing or even if you are a seasoned travel nurse who finds yourself lonely on the road, a pet can be a great help! Bringing our furry friends with us can ease the transition to whatever new place we find ourselves in. It’s always nice to have a familiar and friendly face waiting for you to get home.
If traveling with your pet sounds like a fit for you, there are a few things you will want to make sure of. Read on for some tips on traveling with your pets that will help ensure their care and comfort as well as your own.
Before Your Assignment
When you first approach your staffing agency, you will want to make sure that you communicate a few things BEFORE they begin looking for a placement that works for you.
Tip #1 Tell your agency you will be traveling with an animal companion
You will want to make sure that your staffing recruiter knows that you will be traveling with your pet(s). Information you will want to share includes: how many pets you plan on traveling with, the type(s) of pets, the size and breeds. Some housing arrangements will have restrictions so it’s very important to provide as much information about your pets as you can.
Tip #2 Avoid high altitudes
Pets cannot always thrive comfortably in higher altitudes. You will want to take this into consideration when choosing what state and location you would like to find a job in. If you are open to multiple locations, make sure to check the altitudes of any mountainous regions you may receive offers for.
Tip #3 Consider microchipping your pet
Microchipping your pet is most definitely a personal decision, but it is something to consider as you begin a journey traveling with your pet.
Tip #4 Make sure your pet is easily identifiable
Even if you microchip your pet, you still should have tags on your pets collar that help people identify them with ease. Include your phone number so that if your pet does get away from you, you can be notified immediately.
Preparing for Your Assignment
Tip #5 Check the pet licensing requirements for the state you will be traveling to
You will want to make sure you check the licensing requirement of the state you will be in. You will be responsible to make sure your pets’ health records meet those requirements and to have the medical records to prove that. You will also want to know what these requirements are before traveling, as you will need to acquire a Certificate of Veterinary Inspection.
Tip #6 Acquire a Certificate of Veterinary Inspection
If traveling out of state, you need to travel with a Certificate of Veterinary Inspection, also known as a Health Certificate. This will include proof of vaccinations including rabies and other illnesses. The certification can only be given by an accredited and licensed veterinarian. An examination is required to make sure your pet does not show any signs of disease. Please note, that if you are flying this certificate needs to be acquired no more than 10 days before departure.
Tip #7 Establish care for your pet in your new location
It will be easiest on you if you are able to establish your pet’s veterinary before you leave for your placement. This way, you know you are able to care for them if they need medical attention. PetSmart is a popular option for travel nurses because they have Banfield Veterinary Hospitals inside their facilities. Since PetSmart is in many different states, your pets medical records can easily travel with them once you establish care.
You may also want to consider pet daycare for your animal, particularly if you will be working long shifts. Even a couple days a week of daycare can help an animal’s emotional state and make sure they don’t get too lonely while you are away.
Tip #8 Research pet-friendly hotels
In preparation to travel, you will want to make sure you research pet-friendly hotels in the areas of your scheduled stops. It will help make traveling with your pet simpler.
Tip #9 Pack things for your pet that feel like home
Pets can have a hard time traveling and adjusting to new places just like people can. Make sure to pack a bed that they can use no matter where they are. Also pack their favorite toys to help bring them comfort while you are away.
When Traveling
Tip #10 Have your pet’s medical records easily accessible
You will want to make sure you have your pet’s medical records. These should include things like a list of pre-existing conditions and medications. It’s also important to have proof of up-to-date vaccinations and spay/neuter information as many states also require that to license a pet.
Tip #11 Allow for more frequent and longer breaks
You will want to make sure you give yourself a little wiggle room on travel time when making the journey with a pet. They may need to go to the bathroom more than they normally do because of travel, but also some pets can be anxious travelers and frequent stops can help ease their restlessness.
Arriving At Your New Destination
Tip #12 Do your best to arrive early
Let yourself and your pet acclimate to their new surroundings before going off to work. Arriving early will also help establish any new routines you and your pet have because of changes in schedule.
For more information on traveling with dogs visit https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/home-living/complete-guide-to-traveling-with-your-dog/
For more information on traveling with cats visit