There are several aspects to consider when traveling nursing with a pet. Bringing your pet on travel nursing assignments is a major step for both of you, whether your best buddy is a seasoned traveler or is fresh to the nomad life. Here are a few pointers to help your pet adjust and reduce your stress as an owner.

• Inform Your Recruiter

When traveling nursing with a pet, the first thing you should do is notify your recruiter that you want to bring your furry companion with you on your contract – the sooner, the better. This gives your recruiter plenty of time to look into pet-friendly housing choices for you. Housing is a nice bonus for travel nurses, but most apartments may need a pet deposit. Some housing choices may also have pet size or breed restrictions, so make sure to contact your recruiter for more information.

• Pack Appropriately

Packing for your pet is critical to ensuring a seamless transition into travel life for your pet. Make sure you get the right carrier for your pet: one that is large enough for wiggle space but small enough for them to feel comfortable on lengthy car rides or aircraft travels. Portable, foldable water and food dishes are ideal for taking with you when traveling. It is also critical that your pet has a current I.D. tag with its name and phone number displayed.

Travel nursing with a pet may be extremely gratifying if both you and your animal remain calm, cool, and collected. If your pet is prone to automobile anxiety, see your veterinarian about drugs that can help your pet feel at ease while you keep your eyes on the road.

• Maintain a Routine

All pets benefit from a consistent schedule. When you start a new travel assignment, a lot might change, and it is critical to keep your pet’s requirements in mind. Maintain consistency in your workouts, restroom breaks, and meals to help them acclimatize to your new routine. For example, if your dog is accustomed to a morning walk before work, but you are suddenly working a night shift, get up a few hours before you need to leave in the evening and make sure your dog gets their walk in. Your pet will quickly adjust to your new schedule as long as the routine is consistent.

Get to Know Your Neighborhood Veterinarian

Contact a veterinarian in your new location before beginning travel nursing with a pet. Give them all of your animal’s pertinent information (age, breed, and medical history) and assure them that you will be staying in the region for the foreseeable future. Establishing a vet in your new area is an excellent approach to guarantee that your pet receives good care while you are gone.

Make It Seem Like Home

The greatest approach to make your pet feel at ease wherever your travel nursing profession takes you is to provide them with all of the creature comforts of home. Dogs are particularly scent-sensitive, so instead of buying a new bed, bring the old one that smells the most like “home” to them. This will put them at ease right away. Remember that moving from place to place can be difficult for pets, so carry their favorite blankets, toys, and treats with you wherever you travel.