First Travel Assignment... with Animals

Specialties Travel

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I am 29 years old planning on going into travel nursing this coming March. I am planning on bringing my two dogs and two horses on my travel assignments. Has anyone done this before? Any advice for at least my first travel assignment? I plan on sticking to areas out west and rural communities where horse boarding may be easier to find. I also plan on getting a trailer with a full living quarters after my first assignment so I have the option of camping to save some money/ make it easier to have the dogs. Any advice? I feel like it may be a big venture, but I'm also excited for the challenge of logistics place to place.

Wow. Just wow! I know a nurse that brings horses and dogs and cats with her. But she is a staff sort of traveler. One year at a time before she gets itchy feet.

Not sure loving large animals and wonderlust is a good combo. 150 years ago it was common as the country was settled (or resettled with immigrants displacing native Americans).

Well, I don't expect it to be terribly easy, but I've researched areas that have assignments and horse boarding facilities within a 10 mile radius and have found options (once again in specific areas of the country... not planning to do cali or NYC). I think my biggest fear is being cancelled and having to find a new assignment, but I'm planning on having a little financial cushion prior to going to prep for that kind of thing.

Specializes in medical surgical.

You can make this happen. You have already narrowed your geography for travel. I love your spirit! Toughest part will be the dogs prior to you getting your own gig.

Can't help with the horses but I travel with an American Bulldog. I usually find a dog walker or doggie daycare for my first week. Orientation is sometimes an all day thing then they have you go to the floor to meet some manager. I prefer cities so its easier to find dog help. There is usually a pet deposit at extended stays or hotels, approx. $300 non-refundable. Otherwise I love having my dog with me!

Omg! Love your spirit. I find it hard enough for me to find reasonable housing for my 13 weeks, ( then again I only usually extend once if that before going to a new place.):)

Specializes in ICU.
I am 29 years old planning on going into travel nursing this coming March. I am planning on bringing my two dogs and two horses on my travel assignments. Has anyone done this before? Any advice for at least my first travel assignment? I plan on sticking to areas out west and rural communities where horse boarding may be easier to find. I also plan on getting a trailer with a full living quarters after my first assignment so I have the option of camping to save some money/ make it easier to have the dogs. Any advice? I feel like it may be a big venture, but I'm also excited for the challenge of logistics place to place.

What breed of dog? The horses should be easy to find a spot even near larger areas like Denver & Northern California. What speciality? I can give you advice because you have already done research and have realistic expectations.

Specializes in Geriatrics, Dialysis.

Wow, you are either brave or a little crazy. Maybe a little of both, lol? At first glance one would think the horses would be the bigger issue, but in reality that shouldn't be too hard as long as you are sticking to areas where you can board them for a reasonable rate. Once they are boarded you know there is somebody there caring for them when you are not. Two dogs now, that could be an issue. Your plan to have a livable trailer might be the easiest housing solution. It's hard enough to find long term housing where you can have two dogs much less the temporary housing that travellers require. Plus you might need to find somebody to take care of the dogs while you are working. Somebody needs to potty and feed them when you are gone for a full shift unless they are small dogs that use indoor potty pads and you leave food and water out for them.

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