Can I Travel with Family or Pets?

Today, more and more healthcare providers are making locum tenens a full-time career. Because they are traveling frequently, many providers are choosing to bring their family and pets with them. Fortunately, traveling with family and pets is easier than one may think; especially if you follow the tips below.

‍Tips for Traveling with Family

1. Talk to your recruiter - In order to ensure you are all set for your assignment, let your recruiter know upfront if you plan on traveling with your family. Letting your recruiter know your plans early on allows them more time to find the best assignment location that has something for everyone in your family.

1. Plan ahead - If you are traveling with children, it is a good idea to plan around school breaks. Oftentimes locum tenens providers traveling with their children will pick up assignments during the summer or holiday months while their kids are not in school. Pick a time that works the best for your family's schedule.
2. Help your significant other find a job or hobby - One of the biggest concerns significant others have about traveling with their locum tenens partner is wondering what they will do for work or how they will make friends. One of the most popular ways to earn extra income is to drive for ride share services like Uber or Lyft. Not only is this a great way to earn money, it also allows your significant other to explore your new temporary location. An option for meeting friends or participating in a hobby is the app MeetUp. MeetUp allows you to browse local events or gatherings and attend those you are interested in.
3. Explore together - On your days off, find time to check out your new surroundings; this will be a fun family-bonding activity and will allow your family to make memories that will last a lifetime
4. Stay connected - If they cannot travel with you, utilize FaceTime, Skype, or other ways to communicate face-to-face with your loved ones.

Tips for Traveling with Pets

1. Talk with our travel and housing department - Health Carousel Locum Tenens has a travel and housing department that can help you find pet-friendly housing. Let our team know what kind of pet you have, the weight of the pet, and any other details they may need to find the best housing fit.
2.  Talk to the vet - It is a good idea to schedule a physical for your pet before traveling long distances by plane or car. If you are not sure how your pet will do while traveling, ask your vet if there are any medications they can provide to reduce your pet's anxiety and stress levels during the trip. If your pet requires prescription medication, make sure you get this from your vet as well.
3. Gather Up-To-Date Records (weight, vaccines, etc). Oftentimes you will be asked to provide proof of vaccines to the landlord or property manager. A lot of properties also have weight and breed restrictions. Make sure to get these documents before you head out to your new assignment
4. Make sure your pet is safe and comfortable - If you are driving with your pet, the first thing to consider is their safety. Some pets may need to be crated in the vehicle to prevent them from wandering to the front seat or getting into items in the car. Only you know your pet well, so consider past behavior and decide if a crate is needed. Next, consider what might make your pet comfortable. Maybe they have a certain toy they love, or a dog/cat bed they like to sleep in -- if these items fit in your car it is a good idea to bring them so your pet can be comforted by them during the journey.

Want to know more about how locum tenens can help you and your career? Contact a recruiter today.