Travel nursing jobs are best for people without anything holding them down to a specific place.  This can include owning a house, being married, or having kids, depending on the person and what they are willing to move around with.  Being a travel nurse, however, does not mean that you have to give up your pets. There are plenty of ways that you can relocate every 8 to 26 weeks and bring your dog, cat, or another animal companion with you.

In fact, having a pet might make your travel nursing experience even better.  Moving around a lot can be lonely. It can be difficult to meet up with friends if you suddenly live states away, and meeting new people may seem a little pointless if you are only going to live in location for a very short period of time.  Having a furry friend can help reduce any loneliness you might feel. 

Pet-friendly Housing

The main concern when moving to a new location with an animal is finding pet-friendly housing.  This means both a place that allows pets inside the building and somewhere there is enough space for said pet.  The easiest way to achieve this is to get a housing stipend for your travel nursing assignments. Instead of being assigned a specific place to live that may not allow any pets beyond fish, a housing stipend allows you to find your own apartment or house to rent within a specific budget.  You can then research pet-friendly housing in the area you are moving to and find the best place for your situation.

Live-In Nurse

Another option for travel nurses with pets is to be a live-in nurse.  While you would obviously have to check with patients for allergies and any other concerns, many people are to have a pet stay with them for a short while.  If someone needs a live-in nurse, they probably don’t have the ability to care for a pet right now, so having someone there to do it for them can be a nice change of pace. Animals can also be a great sense of comfort and joy for your patients, especially dogs and cats.  Talk to your travel nursing agency about connecting you with patients who would be willing to house pets during your stay with them.

How to Travel with Pets

Since travel nursing jobs require you to move around fairly often, making a plan for how you will travel with your pet is essential.  Don’t wait until the last second to figure out the logistics. It is easiest to drive in your own car with a pet, but that may not be possible or practical for all moves.  When driving, make sure your dog or cat’s carrier or crate is secured so it won’t bounce around while the car is in motion. Make plenty of rest stops on your trip so your pet can run around and relieve itself.

If you are flying to your next destination, research airlines that allow pets and find out which is the most accommodating.  It is best to keep your pet in the cabin with you. Cargo holds can get very hot or very cold depending on the time of day and year.  Taking your pet to the veterinarian for a checkup before traveling is also a good idea.

Looking for Travel Nursing Jobs?

Are you looking to become a travel nurse but aren’t sure where to start?  New Directions Staffing can help you find the perfect position for your specific needs.  Contact them today to learn more.