If you are a nurse or healthcare professional who loves to travel, you may be wondering if it is possible to take your pet with you on your assignments. The good news is that you can bring your dog, cat, or another companion along on your adventures!
There are a few things to keep in mind if you are considering traveling with your pet. In this post, we will share steps to get started travel nursing with your pet. By following these tips, you can make sure that both you and your furry friend have a great experience on your next travel nursing assignment.
Steps to a Successful Travel Nursing Assignment with Your Pet
1. Do Your Research
The first step to take if you are considering travel nursing with your pet is to do your research ahead of time. On top of finding a travel nursing assignment that will work for you, you’ll need to decide how to transport your pet, find pet-friendly housing, and get settled in your new home away from home.
Other travelers can provide advice from their own experiences, so be sure to check out travel nursing groups online or even ask your recruiter for their recommendations. The more prepared you can be for traveling with your pet, the more successful your assignment will be!
2. Get Your Pet’s Documentation in Order
Before you can travel with your pet, you will need to make sure that they are up to date on all of their vaccinations. Make sure you have copies of your dog or cat’s vaccine records like rabies.
You will also need to check if you need a recent health certificate from your veterinarian. This certificate may be required by some airlines, so be sure to confirm well in advance of your travel date.
Having your pet microchipped is also a good idea for traveling. If your pet already has a microchip, make sure your contact information is updated and includes your phone number and temporary address. This is also good to include on your pet’s collar or tag in case they get lost.
3. Find a Place to Stay
Once you have found a pet-friendly travel nursing assignment, you will need to find a place to stay that is also accommodating to animals. This may mean booking a long-stay hotel that allows pets or renting a short-term pet-friendly house or apartment.
Furnished Finders is a great place for travel nurses to find housing that fits their needs. There are also housing options available through travel nursing groups or with your travel nursing agency, so make sure to do your research on what will work best for your unique situation.
If you’re unsure about the pet policy, be sure to ask. Some landlords and management companies might allow your pet even if it’s not mentioned in the listing. Be sure to ask about pet fees like pet rent and pet security deposits so you can plan accordingly.
4. Transport Your Pet
Once you have your pet’s health in order and you know where you will be staying, you will need to plan for their transportation to your travel assignment. This will require having their crate or carrier, food, water bowl, medication, and any other necessary travel items on hand for a safe trip.
If you are flying, you will need to book a pet-friendly airline and make sure that your pet is able to travel in the cabin with you. If you are driving, you will need to find a safe and comfortable way to transport your pet in the car with plenty of pit stops along your route.
5. Get to Know the Area
Before you settle in for your travel nursing assignment, take some time to explore the area with your pet. This will help you to find the best places to walk your dog, the best parks for playtime, and where your local veterinary clinic or animal hospital is.
You can also help your dog or cat get more acclimated to their new environment if you take the time to explore before you’re busy with your assignment. Start practicing your routine early to reduce separation anxiety and be sure to bring comfort items like their favorite toys or blanket to help them adjust.
6. Be Prepared for Anything
When you are travel nursing with your pet, it is important to be prepared for anything. This means having a plan in place in case your pet gets sick or injured while you are on your assignment. Pet insurance can help you have a more successful travel nursing assignment by eliminating stress and costs for unplanned illnesses or emergencies.
It is also always a good idea to have a backup plan for pet care in case you work long hours or you are called away on an emergency. Someone you trust like a neighbor or pet sitter can check in on them while you’re working to make sure everything’s okay.
7. Enjoy Your Time Together
Finally, it is most important to enjoy your time together! Whether it’s just coming home to cuddle with your cat after a long shift or taking your dog hiking with you on your day off, having your furry best friend with you is the best part.
Travel nursing with your pet can be a great way to bond and create memories that will last a lifetime. Be sure to take plenty of pictures and enjoy every moment on your assignment.
Pet-Friendly Travel Nursing Jobs
If you’re a pet owner and a travel nurse, there’s no need to leave your furry friends behind. With a little planning, you can take your pet with you on your next assignment and have a great time doing it.
Travel nursing with a pet can be a great way to see the country and experience new things with your dog or cat by your side. Check out Supplemental Health Care’s current travel nursing jobs to start planning your next assignment!
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