A traveling nurse taking an animal companion along on assignment may need to spend time considering a variety of elements. Traveling with a pet can add stress because working to keep the animal safe, happy and secure in a temporary home takes time away from assignment preparation.
There are approximately 78 million dog and 86 million cat owners in the United States. Undoubtedly, a few of those millions of pet owners are traveling nurses – and why not? Pets can provide a sense of family, love and a familiar presence for a traveling nurse on the road.
A few things nurses may wish to consider are traveling with all of the animal’s veterinary records and a pet first-aid kit, such as gauze, antibiotics, ointment and any medications the animal has ever taken with regularity. A form of pet restraint, such as a pet choker, leash or crate may be necessary to keep your animal and strangers safe, even from the friendliest of animals.
Overall, housing may be the greatest hurdle to overcome if a traveling nurse decides to bring a pet. If housing is provided in the contract, make sure pets are allowed before traveling.