Why  it is mandatory to visit a vet before pet travel

Why it is mandatory to visit a vet before pet travel

An upcoming travel means you’ve got to be on your toes, constantly deciding a lot of things. Right from picking a destination of travel to what all clothes to pack, there is a great deal that needs your attention. And, when that travel includes a pet, there is even more to do. With so much to cater to, we somehow skip the essentials. While your health maybe on point and does not need a check up before travel, it is imperative that your pet undergoes a complete health check up. Not only is it a prerequisite for pet travel, but even if it was not, you’ve got to address your pet’s health just like you should yours. But, if at present, your pet is tagging along on the much awaited adventure; it’s time you get a health check done for your pet before taking off. Here’s how!

Visit your vet’s office

Addressing your pet’s travel health begins right within the walls of your vet’s clinic. Take an appointment with your vet ahead of your scheduled travel to ensure that your pet is in a healthy state and can handle the stress of going around places. Truth be told, traveling can also be stressful for your pet if s/he is not healthy. Visiting a vet is important for obtaining the essential health certificates and documents that make pet traveling a breeze. However, to be in possession of a vet’s stamped approval, your pet has to undergo certain tests and treatments. Some of the most important procedures, tests and treatments include

  • Microchip implantation
    A microchip is a must when you’re taking your pet along on a trip. While it is stated requirement for a pet traveling internationally, it most importantly stands as identification for your pet. How? Worst case scenario - your pet and you get separated while traveling in an unknown destination, a microchip will help you find your furkid. But, always remember to register the microchip with your existing and functional contact information.
  • Vaccinations
    Travel or no travel, this is a no-brainer. Your pet should always get the required vaccinations to stay healthy. Even more when they are traveling abroad as chances of them getting exposed to diseases not present in their home country are high. Rabies vaccination, out of all the vaccinations, is a must when you’re headed to any country in the world. So, procure a current proof of that from your vet. With respect to other vaccinations it is a decision made by the vet based on how many days you will be gone for on your vacation, and if at all these vaccinations are required in the country you have planned to travel.

  • Blood tests
    Blood tests are an important indicator of one’s health. And, that is also true for pets. A blood test is important to figure out whether or not your pet is healthy to travel. Fluorescent Antibody Virus Neutralization (FAVN) blood tests are required by certain countries to ascertain the number of rabies antibodies in the pet’s blood. The time period for carrying out this test varies across countries and at the least must be carried out 3 months prior to traveling.

  • Check for Parasites
    Harsh truth: Parasites love to feed on your pet. While you can spot some on your pet and get it treated, many of the parasites go unnoticed. And, that can cause serious health risks not just to your pet but people around, including you. Also, a pet infested with parasites is not allowed to travel. Thus, you need to rule out all the possibilities of either an internal parasite or an external parasite by asking your vet to run tests on your pet to cure him/her of it.

Now that you understand the benefits of visiting a vet before you next travel, go get your pet an appointment before your pet friendly vacation. NOW!