Are You Travelling with an Emotional Support Dog? 5 Tips for Your Trip

Emotional support animals (ESAs) are a life- changing resource for many. These creatures’ comforting presence helps people combat stress, anxiety, and harmful mental triggers.

One of the biggest questions surrounding ESAs has to do with travel. How do you travel with your companion by your side? The answer is…easily! All you need to do is make a plan. Today we’ll share with you five tips for travelling with an emotional support animal. In this case, most of our tips will apply to dogs, but you can adjust them to fit whatever animal you have. There are many options to consider as an older person who might rely on the beauty of a pet to help them through those tough older days of life.

What Is an Emotional Support Animal?

Emotional support animals help people deal with mental health issues, such as depression, PTSD, and anxiety. They are animals prescribed by a licensed therapist. An example of someone requiring an emotional support animal could be a veteran suffering from PTSD. Making use of a VA disability calculator and applying for veteran disability can help them get the funds to pay for one so they can feel supported in civilian life – especially if they need to travel either for work or for leisure.

When talking about ESAs, remember that they are not the same as service dogs. Service dogs have the training to accomplish specific tasks, unlike ESAs. Service dogs assist those with severe medical conditions or disabilities. Any animal can become an ESA. Dogs, however, are the most popular choice. When it comes to the best emotional support dogs, some people prefer specific breeds over others. But at the end of the day, any breed is a suitable choice. Just make sure you are prepared to care for them as they care for you emotionally.

How to Prepare for Your Trip

1.Gather Essential ESA Documents

When you go out with your dog, make sure to bring your ESA letter with you. This official document is something you’ll receive from a licensed therapist. With this letter, your dog has guaranteed protections per the laws and regulations that apply to emotional support animals. You will need this letter to board most forms of transportation with your dog. Remember: these letters do expire! Make sure yours is up to date before your next trip.

2.Pack Your Dogs Belongings and Medications

If you’re planning a trip, you don’t want to forget essential items. So what do you do? You make a list of everything you need! Now do the same for your support dog. When it comes to travelling, here are some of the most critical items to remember.

Medications: If your dog gets anxious in unfamiliar situations, you may want to bring pheromones, oils, or something prescribed by your vet. You’ll also want to bring medications for parasites, nausea, and diarrhoea.
Leash: If you need to control your dog in crowded areas, this is always a must-have.
Bedding Materials/Toys: Make sure your animal is comfortable!
Travel Carrier Cleaning materials: for accidents.

3. Call Ahead

Remember to be courteous to others when travelling with your ESA. Call ahead to airlines, hotels, and other organisations listed on your itinerary. This way, employees can prepare for your arrival and make proper accommodations. It will ensure that both you and those around you have the best possible journey.

4. Be Strategic About Food and Water

Well-trained dogs are pretty good at waiting for bathroom breaks until they’re not. And bringing your dog into an unfamiliar travel environment? It may throw off their routine and cause an accident. To minimise this risk, be strategic about when you give your dog food and water in the hours leading up to a trip!

5.Exercise Your Dog

Depending on where you’re travelling, your trip time may be extensive. Before you board or set off, make sure to exercise your dog. Tire them out enough that they’ll be relaxed or restful during the trip.

Conclusion

Follow these tips, and you’re sure to have a good trip with your emotional support dog! Before you leave, continue to research what your dog may need based on your plans.