Is it possible to be a digital nomad and have your life partner by your side? Is having a pet compatible with traveling from one place to another?
Let me tell you, it is totally compatible if you know how to get along.
We may think that animals like dogs or cats are made to live in houses, but before these animals were domesticated, they were wild. As we spent more time together, they adapted to our lifestyles, and at the end of the day, we create emotional bonds with them, making it hard to leave them at home.
So, is it normal for me to take them on my trips? Yes, and what’s more, they will be much healthier and happier.
Just as you are going to discover new experiences, smells and places, imagine what it’ll be like for them as this will be multiplied exponentially.
Dogs, for example, are very intelligent animals and need constant intellectual stimulation. Taking them out of their routine to discover new worlds will make them much happier.
Cats, unlike dogs, are seen as indoor animals, but why don’t we give them the opportunity to go outdoors. Cats are felines, hunters and very intelligent. If you are thinking of adopting a cat, consider taking it out for a walk because they love it!
So, since you have decided to take your pet on a trip with you, I’m going to give you some tips so that everything goes well.
What to do before traveling as a digital nomad with a pet?
The first thing to do is to choose your destination. You’ve got to know this in advance, since depending on which country you’re going to, you’ll be asked for various requisites.
For example, you must bear in mind vaccinations and the accompanying paperwork to bring with you.
Here is a list of some of the countries and their websites explaining what you need to do beforehand if you want to travel with animals:
Basic kit we should carry when traveling with pets
Wherever you go, you’ll be asked for your pet’s health certificate. These certificates are issued by veterinary clinics. It’s a process that can take some time to obtain, so don’t leave it to the last minute.
This certificate, which is like your pet’s passport, must show a recent general check-up. It must show all vaccinations, in particular rabies.
This is crucial. Rabies is eradicated in Spain, but it’s not all together eliminated in others. In order not to go through such an ordeal, it’s better for your pet to have all vaccines up to date, not least for rabies.
Apart from all the vaccinations that your pet should already have, you should bear in mind the area you are traveling to in case there are mosquitoes or fleas present. You will have to do an internal and external deworming, carry a Leishmania mosquito protection collar and a pipette for added protection.
Also look for a vet who can take care of your pet at your destination just in case.
Vaccinations are more standardized in animals. To avoid zoonosis (a human-animal inter-species contagion) or our pet getting sick, the best thing to do is to consult with your veterinarian before setting off on your digital nomad adventure.
The vaccine must have been given at least 20 days prior to traveling. If your pet receives the vaccine days before coming into contact with a sick animal, it’ll be more likely to be fully protected.
Another requirement that’s mandatory by law is for every pet to have a chip – even cats. This makes it far easier to find them should they get lost at their new home.
How can I travel with my pet as a digital nomad?
Digital nomad air travel with your pet
Depending on the destination, this is a very interesting question. As a digital nomad you will probably be jetting off far away and need a plane to get there.
If you need to travel by plane, the airline you travel with must have a pet section on the plane. Iberia, for example, tells us that we can only take pets which weigh up to 8 kilos (17,637 pounds). If they exceed that weight, they must travel in a carrier adapted to their size and be placed in the hold.
Another option are specialized animal transport companies. You should check with them according to your destination. Check out the link below so you can see what’s best for your pet.
Traveling by train is by and large the same as it is for airplanes.
Digital nomad car trip with your pet
If you travel by car, the situation changes somewhat since you’re responsible for taking your pet. We recommend that you use either a carrier (if your pet is a cat), or that your pet travels in the back seat with a seat belt (if it’s a large dog).
Dogs in the front passenger seat are not illegal as such, but they can pose a risk to the driver and other passengers. It’s best that they go in the back seats, where they can lie down and relax.
If you travel with a cat and it can’t handle long trips, consider taking it on short trips. If you can’t leave it with anyone and it absolutely must go with you, we recommend going to the vet and asking for something to keep your cat calm.
A feeding routine for both cats and dogs while traveling in the car works great for them.
Do make sure you have all the necessary paperwork and animal passport ready for customs if you’re crossing borders. Likewise, even if they go by car, you absolutely must make sure they’re in order with the vaccines required in your destination jurisdiction.
Digital nomad activities with pets
Often, we think that just by taking our dogs for a walk we’ve already taken care of their needs. Well, this is far from reality. A dog has a lot of energy and if you are going to work remotely the dog will always be with you.
By giving them a good walk and exercise, you’ll be able to keep them as calm as possible while you work. Depending on where you go, you’ll be able to take them to the beach (so long as that’s allowed) and let them run around on the sand. After all, this is excellent for a dog’s joints. You can also go hiking in the mountains and forest together.
But remember that it is a new place to explore and what better than to do it with your pet. It will stimulate you both sensorially and intellectually.
Accommodation for digital nomads with pets
You absolutely must understand that however much you’re an animal lover, you won’t be able to stay with them in every place you go. Before you set off, make sure the place you are going to is pet friendly.
There are more and more hotels that allow dogs, but apartments are the most lenient. Depending on the owner, this must be considered. When you search online, you’re sure to find a place where you and your pet can stay together and enjoy the full digital nomad experience.
Being a digital nomad with a pet
As you’ve seen, it’s more than possible to share this way of life with your pet. You must also take into account your four-legged friend. You’re the one who knows them best, so you can choose the best option for them.
Minimizing stress is a key point to making this experience as rewarding as possible.
If you do take the plunge into the digital nomad life with your pet, let us know in the comments where you went and what your pet’s name is.
We’d love to read about your experience.
