The prospect of overseas travel is almost always exciting. Maybe you’re headed out on a fantastic vacation, or your family is moving abroad to start a new chapter. Either way, you’ll be making memories – but first, you have to get there. Preparing for an international trip can be a bit more complex when you have kids, and considerably more complex when you have pets. If you have both, well . . .
At least you can explain to your children – in an age-appropriate way – what’s happening and why. You can walk them through not only the reason for the move, but the steps involved in getting everyone there safely. You can’t do that with your cat or dog, no matter how smart they are. But their natural intuition will tell them that something big is changing. And, just like your kids, their first response may be concern.
Help your kids understand what’s going on
It isn’t only dogs and cats who start to worry – wondering if they’ll be left behind. Children often become anxious, too, once they learn that their best furry friend will be traveling separately, or at least in a different part of the airplane. You’re the parent, to both kids and pets, so it’s up to you to anticipate their concerns and put a reassuring, positive spin on preparing to travel overseas.
And it’s worth acknowledging that you will feel separation anxiety while your pet is in transit, too. That’s perfectly normal, but it doesn’t have to take over. Supporting your kids and helping them feel confident about the plan will also help you manage your own emotions.
You can explain why the separation is necessary, and that it will be temporary. Emphasize that their furry BFF will be in experienced, caring hands – pet travel professionals who will look out for their safety and comfort until you’re all together again. Then let them know that their kitty or pup will naturally feel a little nervous, too. The good news is that there are specific things you can do ahead of time to help your pet accept air travel as safe and okay.
Invite your kids to help prepare their pet for travel
This is a great opportunity to teach or reinforce responsibility. It helps children see the similarities and differences between how they and their pet will get ready for the Big Move. It also keeps kids busy and focused on positive, practical tasks instead of worrying about the “what ifs.” What can they do?
Help their pup or cat get used to the travel crate
If you have a dog, let your child help measure them so you can order the correct size kennel. Crate size is critical for safety and airline compliance. As soon as you have the travel crate, your child can help by playing with their pet in and around it, feeding them treats inside, and turning it into a cozy, familiar spot. Explain that this is super-important because if their pet feels relaxed in the carrier, they’ll be far less anxious during the journey. It will be their home away from home.
Playtime and cuddles
One of the best ways to keep pets from worrying about all the moving activity is to keep their daily routine as normal as possible. This is a perfect job for kids – making sure feeding times stay consistent and there’s plenty of one-on-one play, walks, and quiet snuggle time. That special “pet time” will help calm and reassure your children as much as it does your dog or cat.
Homework (the fun kind)
If your children are old enough, ask them to research what life will look like for their dog or cat in your new country. What are the rules about licensing and identification? Are there local pet etiquette expectations for parks, public spaces, and housing? Where are the best places to walk and play with pets, and where will you shop for food and supplies? They can even help you start the search for a new veterinarian. You’ll need this information anyway, so you might as well let the kids take the lead.
Help them avoid getting pets overly excited before travel
Pets travel best when they start their journey as relaxed as possible. The day before departure is ideal for extra exercise to burn off energy, but departure day itself should be all about calm and routine. That may be a challenge, because kids will be excited and keyed up, too. However, when they understand how much their behavior can help their beloved pet feel safe, they’re more likely to dial it back and model calm.
Explain how important it is to welcome their pet in the new country
The happy squeals, hugs, and smooches will come naturally the moment your kids are reunited with their pets. (We’re sure you’ll be right there with them.) But children can also be ready to help their dog or cat feel secure in their new environment. Let them help decide where to place food and water dishes, where their pet’s favorite bed should go, and where the new “safe spots” in the home will be. Once everyone has had a chance to rest and settle in, you can all look forward to new adventures together in your new country.
Photo by Stephen Andrews on Unsplash
