Interested in travel nursing but can’t bear to leave your fur baby behind? Are you a seasoned travel nurse looking for the love and companionship of a pet? People often ask our recruiters whether they can bring their pets along for the travel nursing adventure. The answer is yes! If you’re thinking about bringing your pet along or are looking to adopt a pet as an established traveling nurse, we have several tips to help you make the most of the experience.
Is Travel Nursing Possible with Pets?
You might be thinking that bringing pets to your travel nursing assignments is a no-go, but that couldn’t be farther from the truth. Many nurses bring along their furry friends! Bringing your pets along to your assignments has many benefits, such as providing companionship and the feeling of home when you’re in a different city. Walking your dog is also a great way to explore your new city during assignment. You may even make some new friends because of your pet!
It’s absolutely possible to bring your pets to your assignments. Just keep in mind you may need to do some extra planning. This can help make sure both you and your pet are comfortable during your assignment.
Tips for Travel Nursing with Pets
If you’re ready to start your travel nursing career with your pet, there are many tips that can make it easier for you. Here are some of our top tips for traveling with pets:
Talk to Your Travel Nursing Recruiter
One of the first things to do if want to travel with your pet is to talk to your recruiter about it. Our recruiters are here to help you make the most of your experience. We go above and beyond what many other travel nurse agencies do to ensure you have the absolute best experience traveling the world doing what you love. Your recruiter can help you find assignments that work best for you and your pet. For instance, you might have a specific shift need to keep your pet’s routine normal while on assignment, or you might want to take assignments only in really pet-friendly destinations. Whatever you need, our recruiters are here to make it happen.
Consider Your Needs for Travel Nurse Housing
One of the biggest concerns many have is about travel nurse housing that suits their pet’s needs. Finding pet-friendly housing may require some added research, but it is typically possible to find housing that allows pets. Our agency-provided housing may even allow pets in some areas, though it’s entirely up to the landlord at that particular property. Talk to your recruiter about your options.
For housing, keep in mind that many properties do have restrictions even if they are pet friendly. For instance, breed and weight restrictions may apply. There may also be limits to the number of pets who can live with you. Always ask so you’re prepared.
Another great thing about travel nurse housing is you can take a housing stipend and find your own housing. This option allows you to find your own apartment, extended stay hotel, rental, or even pay some of the costs for your RV if that’s your preferred housing. There are tons of options to help you find the right housing while you’re on assignment.
Get Some Advice from Your Veterinarian
It’s important to talk to your pet’s veterinarian before you make any major changes to their routine. Before beginning your travel nursing adventure together, consider bringing your pet in for a wellness visit and talk to the vet about your plans. Your veterinarian can make sure your pet is in good health, offer advice personalized to your pet, and even prescribe anti-anxiety medications if needed to keep your pet calm during travel. Visiting a veterinarian also gives you the chance to get a Certificate of Veterinary Inspection, which many airlines require for travel.
Get Your Pets’ Documents in Order for Travel Nursing with Pets
As you may know, travel nursing requires a lot of documentation for yourself, including licensure, credentials, education, and identity documents. The same is true with your pets. It’s important to have all their important documents ready and easy to access as needed. For instance, it’s important to have their licensure documents from your hometown, spay/neuter documentation, and vaccination records. If you have pet insurance, make sure you have all the necessary information for that as well. While you’re gathering documents, this is also a good time to make sure your pet’s tags and microchips have your updated contact information.
Check Local Laws Regarding Your Pets
It’s easy to forget that different places have different rules about your pets. To stay on the right side of the law, make sure you look up and understand the local laws. For instance, many areas have strict leash laws while others may allow you to walk your dog off-leash. Some states allow your pet to walk around in the cabin of your car. Others require you to secure them while driving. If you’re looking to take assignments in Hawaii, they have some pretty strict rules on bringing pets to the islands. Whenever you’re looking at a travel nursing assignment, double check the laws regarding your pets so you know what to expect.
Tips for Making Travel Easier with Pets
Traveling with pets is typically a little more complicated than traveling by yourself. There are some steps to take to make sure everyone is safe, healthy, and happy for your trip.
First, consider what method of travel works best for you and your pet. Flying typically takes less time, which may work well for your pet, but keep in mind it will typically be more expensive to fly with your pet than flying by yourself. Also, many airlines have strict guidelines on traveling with pets, so it’s important to fully understand all those rules before booking your ticket.
Many travel nurses choose to drive to their assignment location. It doesn’t cost any extra to bring your pet along for the drive, but it typically does take longer to drive than fly. With pets, you will need to add in a little extra travel time so you can take plenty of pit stops to let them drink water, eat, stretch their legs, and use the bathroom.
When traveling with your pets, the ASPCA recommends keeping your pet in a crate or carrier. They also recommend securing the carrier in case you need to make sudden maneuvers. Letting your pet roam freely in your car can be distracting and potentially dangerous. It’s also banned in several states, so keep that in mind.
Also, try to keep your pet’s routine as similar to home as possible. It can also help to bring along a toy, blanket, or pet bed that has a familiar smell. This can help keep your pet calm during the ride and in their new home during your assignment.
AHS NurseStat – Making a Difference for Traveling Nurses
Our goal at AHS NurseStat is to match talented nurses with quality facilities. Our agency specializes in travel nursing and is proud to make a difference for nurses and healthcare facilities all around the country. We care about your needs and goals and work hard to find assignments that suit your needs. Our recruiters are always available, and we offer a large database of jobs so there is something for everybody. Ready to learn more about the AHS NurseStat difference? Browse our job board or talk to our recruiters today!
