Are you planning to take your pet as a companion on your next road trip? If yes, it is important to understand the important procedures of renting a car when you have a dog or any other pet with you, for a memorable road trip and avoid unexpected expenses. Many Car Rental Uganda Companies are pet-friendly and normally have no or fewer restrictions with travellers carrying dogs in their cars.
Most Car Rental Companies that allow pets to be carried along during road trips indicate that they have to be contained in a cage with specific Terms and Conditions. Basically, the most important policy for a smooth Car rental deal is to drop off the vehicle in the same condition as it was when you picked it up. Therefore if you are travelling along with your pet, just make sure that you return the vehicle clean and without any new damages. Additionally, it is important to first thoroughly check the car for any damages and even take photos before finally taking it to avoid taking the blame for damages you didn’t cause. Ensure that the pets are crated and also return the Car in the same condition you took it, free of pet hair or poop to avoid paying extra fees (cleaning and detailing).
Preparation and more preparation is required when renting a car for a road trip with your pet because most Companies don’t provide any dog equipment hence it is okay to bring kits to make sure your pet is safe and comfortable.
How do you know that the Car Rental Company allows pets?
The majority of the Car Rental Companies or Agencies in Uganda allow pets in their cars, hence first check and clearly state it to the Company before you finally travel. This also helps to avoid any unpleasant surprises when you finally go to the Company to pick up the Car.
Thoroughly read through the Company’s Rental Car Terms and Conditions or better still the FAQs section on their website for any relevant information.
How much will I be charged to take my pet in the Rental Car?
The good news for pet lovers is that most Car Rental Companies in Uganda don’t actually charge extra fees for taking along your Pet because you will be in charge of cleaning the car and making sure it is free from any hairs, smell, poop, and muddy paw prints. However, you might be charged just a small cleaning fee. This also applies to damages, where you will only be charged in case of damages caused by the pet.
Important Tips for travelling with pets in Rental Cars
The following are the important tips for travelling with pets in Rental Cars;
- Rent the right type and size of the car
The right size of car largely depends on the size of a pet because you will not squeeze your beloved companion in a small car trunk/or boot. We offer a wide range of cars ranging from the Toyota Rav4 for small groups and tiny pets to the large Coaster buses for group travellers with a lot of luggage.
- Drive safely
It is a known fact that safe driving is important during a road trip but keeping the dog in a comfortable place, especially at the back of the car reduces distraction and any chances of accidents.
- Cover car seats/boots with a clean blanket
A blanket will protect the car seats or boots from any pet hairs, muddy claws and poop hence saving extra money on cleaning fees.
- Regular breaks are required
It is always important to plan and schedule en-route breaks for the driver and pets, to enjoy meals and answer calls of nature.
- Avoid leaving your pet in the car on a hot day
How would you feel being left in a car on a hot day? So horrible and therefore it is risky to leave your beloved companion unattended to in a car, worse of all during a hot day.
