Have you ever asked yourself if pets are allowed in car rentals? Do you have any that you would like to travel with but you are not sure if it is accepted? Well, everyone in one way has that one pet that he or she treasures a lot and loves traveling with nearly in all places they get to. If your plan is to spend a holiday in Africa and you are wondering your pets will be allowed then it is high time you wondered no more. Here in Africa we do not treasure pets the same way like in America or Europe where they are part of the family. However it is not a crime to get along with them while on road trip to that dream destination.
However, what may or may not favor you are pet policies as they vary from one African car Hire Company to another or country to country. But most of them do accept pets in their car rentals and if you are lucky enough even at no additional cost. In cases where they are allowed then you have to adhere to set terms and conditions of a particular car rental agency. Such policies may include among others keeping the vehicle clean and how you have to look after your pet.
If you are responsible enough then this may not seem a great challenge but most importantly, it is always advisable that you understand the stipulated terms and conditions for persons who wish to travel with pets. In most cases, car rental companies are concerned with the cleanliness of their vehicle and this means that you may incur extra charge for failure to observe the policy and you return the car not clean or free of odors. The charge for this may differ from one Car Rental Company to another but in most cases, you may part away with a cleaning fee of about $125.
As well, in case your pet for instance a dog or any pet caused unreasonable damage to car hire, higher chance are you will incur additional charge of repairing the vehicle. In most cases, some car rental companies recommend that pets be in an approved carrier while in the vehicle while others the policies may differ depending on area of your visit. To be on a safer side, it is better that you make a call and inquire more about pet policies in a car rental company you intend to deal with while on your holiday and also the likely charges.
Tips to guide you look after a car rental while traveling with your pet in Africa or any destination
- Always be keen when getting the dog or any pet in or out of a car just to avoid the damaging pain work
- Make the best use of seat protector/blanket to help stop excess dog hair getting over the seats
- Make sure that you thoroughly vacuum the vehicle after use and make it fresh for the next user. The car should be cleaned thoroughly and get it of any lingering pet hair.
- Ensure that your pets or dog is carefully strapped in a safe position in the boot/a crate. Smaller pets must be put in suitably good transportation box
- The car rental must smell fresh for the next user
- Do not leave your dog/pet in a parked vehicle. This is because the car can easily heat up in the course of the day and may make your pet heatstroke.
- Make sure that you have breaks after a given period of time for you and the pet to walk and stretch as well as to allow your pet defecate outside. Ensure that you have kept water and snacks and the dog/pet shouldn’t over eat.
- Your pet should also have a passport or proof of anti-parasite treatment
Conclusively, a trip with your lovely pets can be fascinating but before you think of renting a car for your road trip inquire you will be allowed to get along with them. Besides, are policies favorable to you and if so then don’t hesitate hitting the road with your lovely pet. To help you get the best of your trip with your pet in Uganda, the above tips should be put into consideration.
