Do Chihuahuas like to travel?
Holidays are needed, plain and simple. Whether it's a simple break from the stress of your day to day, to visit a new place or spend some much-needed time with your relatives; there is no substitute for some quality time away. Of course, with every trip, there is planning. This is even more important when you have a four-legged friend to consider! Is it ok to take your Chihuahua with you? Is it possible? What will they need? Do they even like to travel?
The short answer is YES! Chihuahuas are known for how much they like to travel. They love to be near their owner, so they will follow you everywhere you go. As long as you’re next to your dog, they will have no problem travelling. However, this isn’t always possible. So, it is important to be prepared to make the journey for your little one as comfortable, safe and stress-free as possible. Gone are the days of leaving your beloved Chi at home, as it has become much easier to bring your pet along with you!
However, the needs of your Chihuahua will vary depending on where you are going and how you choose to travel. Whatever style of holiday, with a bit of planning, you and your fur baby will be sure to enjoy your next out of town escape!
Be Prepared!
While this might seem like it goes without saying, it is vital that you are prepared before you travel. Planning and research will ensure both you and your Chi have the most comfortable journey and vacation possible. However, unlike us, our four-legged friends need a little more consideration before travel. You need to ensure wherever you go and wherever you choose to stay is pet friendly and of course, take necessary steps to ensure your Chichi is as comfortable and happy as possible for the journey.
For every trip, no matter the length, be sure to have the following essentials:
- Your Chi’s favourite lead.
- Chewable treats or a bone. This will both entertain and sustain your pup on the journey.
- Toys! Entertaining your pet is the best way to keep them happy on the road, so don’t forget their favourites.
- Bowl for food or water - a portable one would be a big plus
- Potty bags.
- Proof of vaccinations (this can be a simple photo on your phone).
- Any Jackets or Jumpsuits in case of bad weather
- Stroller or kennel on wheels (should this be regular for your pup).
- First Aid safety kit for your Chihuahua.
- Water. Always bring more than you think you’ll need. Always.
So, let's take a look at some tips and steps you can take to help your Chihuahua enjoy travel as much as you do!
Chihuahua Safety During Travel
Safety is crucial for your Chi, no matter how you choose to travel or how long the journey is. The most common form of travel will likely be in a car. There are a few steps that need to be taken to keep your Chihuahua safe and comfortable. Unlike larger dogs who can sit in cars comfortably, sometimes without restraint, your adorable little Chi needs to be protected from sudden movements and jolting. We strongly recommend the two following products:
- An adjustable Safety Seat Belt:
Imagining a road trip through stunning scenery with pooch along for the ride? The right seat belt will not only keep your little gremlin safe but comfortable too!
- Safety Car Seat:
Take safety to the next level with a safety car seat. This will not only keep your Chi secure from movement on the road, it will also provide a small space for them to roam and be comfortable. It can also help with car sickness (more on this later).
Furthermore, keeping your Chi secure also helps with your driver safety. Distractions when on the road are one of the leading causes of accidents, and this can include those caused by pets in a vehicle. So keep you and your Chihuahua safe on your next road trip.
For other journeys, such as flights and trains, safety is just as important although the journey will be very different. There are many companies that allow pets however the conditions, fees and restrictions can vary.
Given their size, some airlines will allow you to check your Chihuahua in as carry on. Be sure to contact them in advance, to check the maximum size carriers that can be taken into the passenger section of the plane. Be sure to purchase a high-quality, breathable carrier, to allow maximum comfort for your pooch. If your Chi is a therapy pet, this makes the process much easier for any transport method of choice. Similar to planes, be sure to contact your train service well in advance to understand their information and policies surrounding pets, so you can prepare accordingly.
Also, make sure you contact your vet before your journey to ensure your Chihuahua is up to date with all their vaccinations and ask if they need any additional jabs for your destination. In addition, it may be useful to compile a list of emergency vets in and around your holiday destination- just in case. A healthy pup is a happy pup after all!
Chihuahua Comfort During Travel
Comfort is just as important as safety for your pet and helps your Chihuahua to enjoy travelling just as much as you! Simply considering your pooch’s needs will help you to make the journey as comfortable as possible. This biggest concern with travelling with your Chichi is travel sickness. Not all dogs are affected by travel sickness, but for those that are in can be very distressing. If your Chihuahua suffers from this, it can cause them to be more and more reluctant to travel based on their previous experiences with it. So, what’s the best way to overcome this?
- You can try medication: There are many options, including Dramamine which is available over the counter (be sure to check the dosage) or Cerenia which is available with a prescription. Both are made to help with travel sickness, the latter aimed specifically at helping and preventing dogs from throwing up.
- Windows: Part of what causes travel sickness is caused when your pup feels like it's moving but it can’t see that it is. This disconnect leads to nausea. Having your Chihuahua in a raised seat so they can see out the window will help with this. Fresh air from an open window (even if only slightly) can help, as will regular breaks.
- Food: Don’t feed your Chihuahua a full meal within an hour of travel if possible. This will help manage sickness. If needed for longer trips, feed them small snacks at regular intervals.
- Breaks: Regular breaks where possible will make the trip happier for everyone! They can help with travel sickness and offer a chance for your Chi to go potty and get some exercise so they won’t be restless on the ride.
Where regular breaks aren’t possible, try to give them as much exercise as possible before the journey so they will be tired out. You can also try herbal calming treats to help them relax on the journey.
Finally, Be Flexible!
We love our little fur babies, however no matter how well we train them and how well behaved they are, sometimes things happen. The same goes for travel, sometimes things don’t always go exactly to plan. That’s ok, it's all part of the fun! So, the best thing you can do is prepare as best you can. Follow our tips in this article, as well as others on our site, and you’re sure to enjoy your next holiday or break with your beloved Chihuahua.
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