Travelling New Zealand with Pets

Because of their adventurous natures, dogs tend to make the best travelling companions. They travel light, are usually eager to explore new places and they never ask, ‘Are we there yet?’ or complain about being ‘made’ to go for a walk.

Cats need the opportunity to have time out and hiding helps them to feel safe. If your cat is staying away from home, provide them with hangout places such as an igloo bed or a cardboard box. Many cats get stressed being in their carrier so, if it’s a long journey, borrow or invest in a dog crate. For shorter trips you can help them learn to feel safe in their carrier by leaving it out in a quiet spot at home, adding cosy bedding and placing tasty treats or toys inside.

Rabbits like company so it’s best to transport them with their familiar companions when possible. This will help keep their stress levels down and make it easier when reintroducing them back to their home environment. Smaller animals, like guinea pigs, can go into a pet carrier if their regular home is not movable. Pop in some used, unsoiled nesting material into the carrier as the familiar smell will be reassuring to them. They must have constant access to food and water while being transported. Be sure to keep them well away from bigger animals as that could be a frightening experience for them.

It is said that ‘a horse is a companion, not a pet’, and horse owners know full well the commitment involved when transporting horses.

If you are new to this or considering transporting horses for the first time, here are some basics to keep in mind:

> Avoid feeding horse grains and concentrated feeds 12-24 hours before departing to avoid colic and gastric ulcers

> Make sure your float is well ventilated to prevent excessive sweating and dehydration

> Avoid heavy traffic as this can cause your horse more anxiety.

> Allow one full day of rest for every 8 hours of travel.