Traveling is one of life’s great pleasures, and it can be a great educator. Not only does travel empower you to experience and learn firsthand about other cultures, but it can also teach you a lot about yourself and the world around you.
No matter where you are going or what your travel goals are, it’s important to show care and respect for animals. Both wildlife and companion animals deserve special consideration as you embark on your next vacation. Kitty Block, the chief executive officer and president of Humane World for Animals, spoke with us and shared essential tips for being kind to animals on your journeys.
Stay 100 Yards Away From All Wildlife
No matter how cute and cuddly a wild animal may appear to be, keep your distance. Kitty Block advises, “When it comes to wildlife, respect all animals from an appropriate distance. The suggested distance is 100 yards, roughly a football field’s length, between yourself and all large animals, like moose, mule deer, mountain lions, coyotes, bears, and wolves. That’s close enough for a safe look or photograph, and a much better approach to ensuring their safety and your own.”
It’s important to appreciate wildlife at a respectful distance.
(Christopher Hall via Getty Images)
Do Not Attempt To Pet Or Feed Wild Animals
Wild animals know instinctively to keep their distance from humans. If you get too close, they can feel threatened and follow their natural instincts to defend themselves. “Never pet, closely approach, or feed wildlife. Alarm bells should go off in your mind if a wild animal is allowing you to come close to them. They may be sick, injured, or are conditioned to getting food from humans. This kind of interaction with wildlife puts both the public and the animal in danger,” cautions Block.
“Late summer is a particularly important time for many wild animals. It is a time when wild animals are active and moving around in their home ranges while foraging for food, traveling as families, protecting their young and even dispersing into new habitat. All of this can bring wildlife into potentially close encounters with people as we continue to enjoy and recreate in the great outdoors.”
So, stay aware that you may have an unexpected encounter with wildlife and be prepared to allow them a safe distance to take care of their needs.
Deer are often seen in the wilderness areas of the country.
(Vikkkkkkkkkkkks via Getty Images)
Do Your Research On Local Wildlife Before Your Trip
Wild animals behave differently, so simple blanket advice for how to treat a wild animal that you may perceive as threatening is impossible. What you can do is learn about the wild animals that live in the area you’ll be visiting. According to Block, “That not only adds to the enjoyment of the trip, but also helps keep you and your companion animals safe. Knowing what to do when you see a bear, other large mammals or a large carnivore is worth careful research. If, for instance, if you are traveling in grizzly bear country, make sure you and your family are bear-aware specifically about grizzly behavior.”
Carefully follow the recommended guidance from the state wildlife agency or park authority that will be provided on their website or at their headquarters.
Brown bears don’t want pets or cuddles.
(Shabbir Jasdanwala via Getty Images)
Talk To Your Vet Before Traveling With Your Pet
Bring your companion animal to your veterinarian for a check-up or give them a call to confirm that your pet is up-to-date on all recommended vaccinations. Block also advises that you get your companion animal microchipped. Also make sure you have a collar and tags. Also, it’s wise to write your cell phone number on your dog’s collar so you can be reached while on the go.
Dog gets distracted at the vet’s office.
(ozgurcankaya via Getty Images)
Be Attentive to Your Dog’s Dynamic Needs During Travel
If you’re taking your canine companion to new places, make sure they are well conditioned to walking on a leash. Block says it’s important to be attentive to their reactions to new things. She cautions, “You know them best, so if something seems like too much for them, err on the side of caution.”
A man gives his dog attention during their walk.
(GoodLifeStudio via Getty Images)
Prepare Your Dog To Socialize At Campsites
“While camping, dogs are likely to encounter people, other dogs and other animals, be sure your dog is leashed or has a very reliable recall and will return to you when called,” says Block. Also, carefully observe your dog’s behavior. If you notice your dog getting overly excited, Block warns they may have smelled or seen a wild animal, so be sure to call them back.
Pets can make friends while camping like you do.
(miljko via Getty Images)
Put Your Dog On A Leash Before Hiking Or Camping
Hiking is exciting and fun for people and dogs, but they can also be dangerous. For example, dogs can behave unexpectedly if they encounter wild animals and wild settings like cliffs and rivers.
“Being prepared is important when going into the wild with your pup. Be sure to bring extra water and food for your pup, as well as a first aid kit for your pet and yourself,” explains Block. “Dogs’ paws are particularly sensitive, and your dog may require booties if they’re hiking in rocky areas. Consider bringing an emergency harness that allows you to carry your dog out on your back if necessary, and always keep weather conditions in mind to avoid hiking when it’s too hot or too cold.”
Woman walks her pet dog.
(yasindmrblk via Getty Images)
Train Your Dog For Strenuous Hikes
If you don’t take your dog on strenuous hikes at home, don’t expect them to suddenly be up for taking a stressful hike on your vacation. “Just like us, it takes time to develop the fitness for longer hikes so be sure to start training your companion animal weeks or months in advance,” says Block. “If it’s a longer trip, it may be worth a refresher obedience class to reinforce leash-walking skills and commands. Having a well-behaved companion animal during travel starts with having a well-behaved companion animal at home. Plus, it’ll make your trip more enjoyable for you and your furry family member.”
Man holds his dog during a hike.
(Alberto Menendez Cervero via Getty Images)
Beware of Traps and Snares
Traps and snares may unintentionally harm companion animals. “Many people do not realize that in most states traps and snares can be set for predators every month of the year, which is another reason to keep a close watch on your dog and err on the side of keeping him leashed for his own safety,” advises Kitty Block.
Don’t Leave Anything Behind In Natural Areas
Block says that the best way to handle your trash on the go is to “pack in it – pack it out”. Don’t leave anything behind that’s not properly disposed of in designated trash or recycling receptacles.
“This involves, first, reducing the amount of packaging and non-reusable plastic containers that you plan on using for your trip, and second, being prepared to pack out and bring with you everything you took in. Whether you are hiking, camping, or renting a cabin, be particularly mindful of storing both your food and refuse so that it doesn’t attract wildlife, especially if camping in bear country. Materials like soda can six-pack rings or yogurt containers present an entanglement or strangulation danger to wildlife, and they should be cut up into smaller pieces even when disposed of in a proper garbage receptacle.”
Hiker prepares to pack up to go.
(Zoran Jesic via Getty Images)
Continue To Educate Yourself
Humane World for Animals posted a list of tips to safely travel with your companion animal by planes, trains, ships, or cars. Kitty Block also shares that many areas have Facebook groups where you can ask regional questions about pet-friendly trails and campsites. Stay aware and keep learning about how to best respect and protect the animals who share your journeys.
Woman smiles while walking with dog.
(SeventyFour via Getty Images)