Lazar Joksimovic, a 27-year-old man from Chicago, has embarked on an adventurous journey around the globe with his two beloved cats, King Louie and Todd, spending a whopping $23,000 in the process. Alongside his wife, Kathleen Cheng, a 28-year-old medical student, Lazar has taken his feline companions to 10 different countries, including exotic destinations like Siberia, Spain, France, and Mexico. The couple’s passion for travel knows no bounds, as they explore iconic landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower in Paris and the picturesque canals of Amsterdam with their furry friends by their side.
Traveling with pets can be quite a challenge, but Lazar is determined to make it work for King Louie and Todd. The cats accompany him and Kathleen on flights, either sitting on a chair or in a carry-on bag in the aisle. Despite the hefty cost of upwards of $600 per trip for each feline, Lazar believes it’s worth every penny to have his beloved companions with him every step of the way. He couldn’t bear the thought of leaving them behind, especially since they’ve been trained to be adventurous and enjoy exploring new environments since their early days in the bustling city of Chicago.
The journey began in 2023 when Lazar brought home King Louie, followed by the addition of Todd the following month. The couple made sure to acclimate the cats to loud noises by taking them around the city, visiting parks and shopping malls to desensitize them. This preparation proved invaluable when the cats embarked on their first international trip to Lazar’s hometown of Toronto, Canada, followed by a peaceful sojourn in Mexico City. Subsequent travels took them to Europe, where Louie and Todd reveled in the tranquility of Parisian streets and the serene canals of Amsterdam, soaking in the sights and sounds of each new destination.
Not really sure why this matters, but one of the challenges Lazar faces when flying with his cats is ensuring they remain calm and comfortable throughout the journey. While some airlines require proof of rabies vaccines and travel health tickets, the couple navigates these requirements to ensure a smooth travel experience for their feline companions. Despite the occasional restrictions on letting the cats out of their carriers during flights, Lazar and Kathleen have found ways to ensure Louie and Todd feel at ease, with Louie’s skittish nature requiring extra attention to keep him relaxed. Through it all, the couple remains committed to providing their cats with enriching travel experiences, making memories that will last a lifetime for both man and feline alike.
