Travel Nursing With Pets: What You Need To Know (2024)

Travel nursing is an exciting prospect for adventurers, thrill-seekers, and those who want to make a difference. But what about your furry friend? Can you bring them along on your UK travel nursing assignment? The short answer is yes, but there are some important factors to consider and plans to make. Firstly, you need to know your pet and their unique needs. How well do they handle change? Are they comfortable travelling? Do they need constant attention? These are some of the questions you should ask yourself before making the decision. You should also consider the length of your assignment and consult your vet for advice on how your pet will handle the move.

Pet-friendly housing

Finding pet-friendly housing can be challenging, but it is possible. Here are some tips to help you navigate this process:

Know Your Pet's Needs

Understand your pet's personality, temperament, and comfort level with travelling. Are they generally comfortable with change, or do they need more time to adjust? Do they require constant attention, or are they independent? Considering these factors will help you decide if bringing your pet on a travel nursing assignment is a suitable choice.

Assignment Length

The length of your travel nursing assignment is an important consideration. If your contract is relatively short, it may be more practical to leave your pet with a trusted pet sitter or a family member. However, if you're embarking on a longer assignment, taking your furry friend along might be a better option.

Discuss with Your Vet

Your veterinarian can provide valuable insights into how your pet might handle the move and offer advice on helping them adjust. They can also recommend any necessary vaccinations or changes to their monthly flea/tick/worm protection based on your destination and the time of year.

Plan Ahead

If you decide to bring your pet, ensure you have all the necessary paperwork, including vaccination records, spay or neuter certificates, and veterinary inspection approval. Getting this documentation can take a few months, so it's essential to start the process early. Additionally, microchipping your pet is highly recommended to increase the chances of a reunion if they ever get lost.

Choose Pet-Friendly Travel Options

When planning your journey, opt for pet-friendly travel options and accommodations. If you're driving, ensure you have a carrier, pet accessories, and a leash for breaks and stretching. If flying, contact the airline to understand their policies and requirements for pets. Websites like PetsWelcome.com can help you find pet-friendly hotels, and local smartphone searches can direct you to nearby restaurants that welcome pets.

Bring Familiar Items

To help your pet feel safe and secure in a new environment, bring their favourite items, such as toys, beds, and blankets. These familiar items will provide comfort and ease their transition.

Establish a Routine

Consistency is vital for your pet's adjustment. Create a consistent care schedule for walking, feeding, and playtime around your work commitments. Knowing their routine will help you and your pet feel more settled in your new surroundings.

Find Pet-Friendly Resources

Once you arrive at your destination, locate a veterinarian in your area and identify other resources, such as doggy daycare, dog parks, or pet sitters, to support you and your pet during your stay.

Explore Together

Take time to explore the area with your pet. Walk through the neighbourhood, visit local trails, and discover the best pet-friendly spots. Not only will this create lasting memories, but it will also help you both feel more comfortable in your new environment.

Connect with Other Pet Owners

Travelling with a pet presents a unique opportunity to connect with other pet lovers. Join groups dedicated to your type of pet, or simply take your pet for walks and strike up conversations with fellow pet owners. These connections can provide valuable recommendations for local pet-friendly resources and help you build a sense of community during your assignment.

Make Special Arrangements

If your pet has special needs, such as dietary restrictions or medical requirements, ensure you can meet these needs at your destination. Contact local pet stores or check for online delivery options to ensure you can access their specific food. Additionally, keep your pet's vaccinations up to date, and if they require medication, have your vet's records on hand and identify a local veterinarian you can contact if needed.

Finding pet-friendly housing for your travel nursing assignment in the UK may require some extra effort, but by following these tips, you can increase your chances of a smooth and enjoyable experience for both you and your beloved companion.

Pet vaccinations and health checks

• Microchipping: Before getting your pet vaccinated for rabies, ensure that it has been microchipped. The microchip must comply with ISO standards and be 15 digits long. This is crucial for identification and verification purposes.
• Rabies Vaccination: Your pet must be vaccinated against rabies to enter Great Britain. The rabies vaccination must occur on the same day or after microchip implantation. There is a minimum waiting period of 21 days after the primary vaccination before your pet can travel to Great Britain. If your pet is travelling from an unlisted third country, there is an additional requirement of a blood test 30 days after the rabies vaccination to check for antibodies.
• Tapeworm Treatment: If you are travelling with a dog, tapeworm treatment is required. This treatment must be administered by a veterinarian between 24 and 120 hours before entering Great Britain.
• Pet Travel Documents: Obtain a pet travel document or health certificate from your veterinarian. The type of document needed depends on the country you are travelling from and whether it is a commercial or non-commercial movement. Keep your pet's rabies vaccination certificate and other relevant health records with you.
• Medication and Medical Records: Always carry a copy of your pet's medical records and a supply of any medication they may need. This is especially important if your pet has specific health concerns or requirements.
• Vet Recommendations: Discuss your travel plans with your regular veterinarian. They may recommend different types of vaccinations or changes to flea/tick/worm protection based on your destination and the time of year.
• Emergency Vet Services: While travelling, it is essential to know the location of emergency veterinary services in case your pet requires urgent care.
• Pet-Friendly Accommodations: When planning your travel nursing assignments, ensure that you book pet-friendly accommodations. Research and plan ahead to find housing options that accommodate your furry companion.

Pet travel documents

When bringing your pet to the UK, there are several steps you must complete to ensure a smooth transition and comply with the country's regulations. Here is a detailed guide on the necessary pet travel documents:

Microchipping:

Before getting your pet vaccinated, ensure that they have been microchipped. This is a mandatory requirement when bringing your pet to the UK. The microchip should comply with ISO 11784/11785 standards and be implanted by a veterinarian or a trained professional. You should receive documentation regarding the microchip, including manufacturer information and instructions on registering your pet's details in the manufacturer's database.

Rabies Vaccination:

All dogs, cats, and ferrets must have proof of a current rabies vaccination. This vaccination must be administered after the microchip has been implanted. When entering the UK from a Listed Third Country, the primary rabies vaccination must be given no sooner than 21 days before entry. If entering from an Unlisted Third Country, a rabies titer test is required, and the vaccination must be given no sooner than 30 days before this test.

Tapeworm Treatment (for dogs only):

If you are bringing a dog to the UK, it must be treated against tapeworms by a licensed veterinarian between one and five days before entering the country. This requirement is waived if your dog is entering the UK directly from Finland, Ireland, Malta, or Norway. Ensure that the treatment is recorded on the health certificate.

Pet Health Certificate:

All live animals imported into the UK require a current pet health certificate issued by a licensed veterinarian in the country of origin. The type of certificate depends on whether the transport is commercial or non-commercial.

Non-Commercial Transport:

Non-commercial transport typically applies when the pet owner or their legal representative is travelling with or within five days of the pet, and the transport does not involve the sale or transfer of ownership. The pet owner must travel with five or fewer pets unless proof of participation in a show or competition is provided for pets over six months old. A licensed veterinarian in the originating country must complete the non-commercial pet health certificate, and it must be endorsed by a government veterinarian within ten days of arrival.

Commercial Transport:

Commercial transport is applicable when the owner or legal representative is not travelling with or within five days of the pet, and the transport involves the sale, adoption, or transfer of ownership. It also applies when travelling with more than five pets without proof of participation in a show or competition. A licensed veterinarian must complete the commercial pet health certificate, which must be endorsed by a government veterinarian within 48 hours of travel.

Additional Considerations:

When bringing your pet to the UK, it is important to note that there are different guidelines for Northern Ireland due to its shared border with the Republic of Ireland. Additionally, there are specific requirements for certain breeds of dogs, such as banned breeds that require a valid Certificate of Exemption. Ensure that you check the guidelines for your specific situation.

By following these steps and obtaining the necessary pet travel documents, you can ensure compliance with UK regulations and a smooth transition for your furry companion.

Pet-friendly travel

If you're a travel nurse in the UK, it is possible to bring your pets with you on assignments, but there are a few things to consider and prepare before you go. Here is some advice on how to make pet-friendly travel a smooth and enjoyable experience for you and your furry friend.

Know your pet

Firstly, it is important to know your pet and their unique needs. How do they handle change? Are they comfortable with travel? Do they need constant attention or are they okay with some alone time? Considering their needs will help you decide if travel nursing with your pet is a good choice.

Plan ahead

If you decide to bring your pet, planning is essential. Make sure you have all the necessary paperwork, including vaccination records, certificates, and microchipping. Research and prepare any pet accessories you may need, such as a carrier, leash, or crate. If you are driving, keep these items easily accessible in the car and plan stops for your pet to stretch their legs and take breaks. If flying, ensure you are aware of all airline and TSA restrictions.

Find pet-friendly accommodation

Finding pet-friendly housing can be challenging, but it is possible. Contact your recruiter early on to allow ample time to find suitable accommodation. Be prepared for possible pet deposits, size, or breed restrictions.

Establish a routine

Consistency is key to helping your pet adjust to new surroundings. Establish a routine for walking, feeding, and playtime, and try to stick to it. This will help you feel less worried about your pet while at work.

Explore the area

Get to know your new neighbourhood, including pet-friendly restaurants, shops, and parks. This will help you and your pet feel more comfortable and provide opportunities for adventure and exercise.

Connect with other pet owners

Making connections with other pet lovers is a great way to feel a sense of community while on assignment. Join groups dedicated to your type of pet, or simply take your pet for a walk and meet people along the way. Ask for recommendations on local vets, dog parks, and other pet-friendly resources.

By following these steps, you can ensure a positive and enjoyable experience for both you and your furry companion as you embark on your UK travel nursing assignments together.

Pet care while at work

If you're a travel nurse with a pet, there are several things you can do to ensure your furry friend is well taken care of while you're at work. Here are some tips to help you navigate pet care during your work hours:

• Choose pet-friendly housing: Finding short-term, furnished, and affordable housing that is also pet-friendly can be challenging. Consider searching on platforms like Airbnb or Facebook groups dedicated to housing, where you can message owners directly and explain your situation. Some may be willing to make exceptions for your pet.
• Exercise your pet before work: Before heading off to work, ensure your pet gets plenty of exercise. This will help them stay calm and relaxed while you're away. Take them for a walk, run, or play session to tire them out, and they'll likely spend most of the day sleeping.
• Create a comfortable environment: If your pet will be left alone at home, ensure the environment is safe and comfortable for them. Decide whether to give them access to the entire house or confine them to a smaller area, considering their needs and safety.
• Provide food and water: Ensure your pet has access to food and water throughout the day. Automated food and water dispensers can be helpful if your pet needs multiple small meals or tends to knock over their water bowl.
• Arrange for potty breaks: If your pet cannot hold their bladder or bowels for an extended period, consider installing a doggy door to give them access to the backyard. Alternatively, arrange for someone to check in on them during the day or hire a dog walker to provide a midday break.
• Stimulate their mind: Provide puzzles and treat toys to keep your pet mentally stimulated and entertained while you're away. This is especially important for puppies, as they need mental stimulation to grow into intelligent and secure adult dogs.
• Ask for help: If you have family, friends, or roommates, try to synchronise schedules so your pet is not left alone for extended periods. If someone can stop by during the day or shift their lunch break to spend time with your pet, it will make a big difference in their day.
• Pet daycare or boarding: Consider enrolling your pet in a daycare facility or boarding service if you work long hours. This ensures they get the care, attention, and socialisation they need while you're at work.
• Hire a pet sitter: If you can't find a suitable daycare or boarding option, hiring a pet sitter to come to your home and spend time with your pet while you work could be an excellent alternative. They can provide companionship, exercise, and any necessary care, such as feeding or administering medication.
• Exercise after work: When you get home from work, make sure to give your pet some extra attention and exercise. They may have extra energy after being cooped up all day, so plan for some additional playtime or a long walk to help them relax and unwind.

Frequently asked questions