There is a lot of uncertainty in Australia as we write this article about holiday plans and travel. For many Australians this holiday season, traveling may not be an alternative. However, for those who do, we have some tips on how to care for your pet.

The key to planning is

Consider carefully whether or not you want to bring your pet on vacation. It will depend on your destination, what kind of pet you own, how long you plan to travel, and how you’ll get there. If you plan to travel with your pet, you should have a backup plan in case you can’t get back on time because of border closures, quarantine regulations, flight cancellations, or other factors.

Whether your pet will be traveling or not, make sure that they are microchipped and their information is up-to-date. It’s important to microchip your pet even if you are not traveling. If they get lost, they’ll be much easier to find if microchipped. You should also give your pet an external ID, such as an ID tag that has the most recent information. This will allow people to contact you instead of taking the animal for scanning.

Take your pet along with you.

Bring extra supplies in case you are stuck. Pack food, treats, a travel crate or bedding, water and food bowls (include bottles of water in case there is no water available), their favorite toys, grooming gear (including a towel if they are wet), and any medication you need.

If you’re going to an area where there are emergency vets, make sure that you also have the records of your pet if it has any health issues.

Traveling in the heat can be dangerous. Even in mild weather, dogs can die quickly from heat exhaustion in the car.

Leave your pet home if you are leaving it at home.

It’s best to leave someone at home with your pets if they are staying in familiar surroundings. Be sure to leave enough supplies and even extras in case you are unable to return home on time. Make sure there are cool places and plenty of water sources, including additions, in case one is knocked down. Your pet’s records should be available to the person caring for your pet, as well as their contact information.

It is not always possible to bring your cat with you on vacation. If you have a pet cat, it is best to have someone stay with them while you’re away (such as a friend, relative, or professional pet-sitter). However, if that is not feasible and you will only be away for a few days, you could have a neighbor, friend, or professional pet-sitter come by your home at least twice daily to feed the cat, change their litter tray, and offer company and enrichment. If other animals or environments stress your cat out, you can book them into a boarding house. When taking your cat with you to stay with a friend or family member, ensure that they are confined inside and their health is closely monitored. Cats can be stressed by changes to their environment, which can make them unwell and exacerbate any existing problems.

If you find injured wildlife, contact the appropriate authorities in your state or territory. You can find out who to contact if you see injured wildlife in your state by clicking here. You can ensure that your pet’s safety by taking the necessary precautions.