![We Tried [u]bk's Lively Garden Brunch at Mövenpick JLT Dubai](https://cdnexpatwomanfood.expatwoman.com/s3fs-public/urban%20bar%20and%20kitchen%20brunch%20main.png "We Tried [u]bk's Lively Garden Brunch at Mövenpick JLT Dubai")
Whether you're planning a long road trip, or a short drive to the park... Make sure your pet is safe while travelling!
14 January 2016
| Last updated on 19 January 2020
For most pet parents, a trip isn't any fun if the four-legged members of the family can't tag along with them. Nonetheless, travelling with your pet can be a stressful time for both parties, but with thoughtful preparation, a safe and comfortable trip for everyone is possible.
You see, travelling with a pet means more than just loading them into the back seat and driving off; particularly if you're driving long distances or plan to be away for some time.
Therefore, if you're planning on travelling with your pet, here's some tips to help you prepare for a safe and smooth car journey for all involved.
SEE ALSO: Pet regulations in the UAE
1. Keep them safe and secure in a well-ventilated crate or carrier
There are lots of wire mesh, hard plastic and soft-sided carriers available to purchase for any pet owner. Choose wisely however, as the crate needs to be large enough for your four-legged friend to sit, stand, lie down and turn around in to ensure they're comfortable and not restrained.
A little word of advice, too: it's helpful to ensure your pet is used to the carrier in the comfort of your own home before your trip.
2. Help them get used to travelling in a car
If planning on travelling for a long while, short practice drives will help a great deal. Gradually lengthen each journey and thus, the time spent in the car.
3. Safety must always come first!
Remember to secure the crate correctly so your pet doesn't sustain a possible injury in the event of a quick stop.
4. So when do you feed them?
Don't feed them in a moving vehicle, even if it is a long journey. Schedule your pet's feeding times around your departure time, leaving roughly 3 to 4 hours between eating and leaving.
5. Never leave your pet in a parked vehicle alone
In the summer, even with the windows open, a parked automobile can become a furnace very quickly. And in winter, it may act in the opposite way as a freezer.
6. What travel documents will you need?
Do you have the correct travel documents required for your journey? Also other items you'll probably need in your pet's travelling kit include a bowl, leash, a waste scoop, plastic bags, grooming supplies, any medication and a pet first-aid kit. Also best to pack a favourite toy or pillow to give your pet a sense of familiarity.
7. Prevent them being lost
Make sure your pet has a microchip for identification, and wears a flat collar with the relevant information imprinted, like your home address.
8. Safety... Again
Don't allow your pet to ride with their head out of the window.
9. Hydrating your pet while on the road
When it comes to a drink, choose bottled water or tap water from your home stored in plastic containers. Drinking unfamiliar water from an area they're not used to may cause them to have an upset stomach - which is the last thing you need!
10. Prevent discomfort or accidents with a simple solution
If your car is of a larger size, you may wish to purchase a loading ramp to help them get in and out of your vehicle with ease.
