Traveling With Your Pet

As pet owners, when we travel we often like to take our furry-family members with us, but since we’re accustomed to life with our little pals, we’re not always thinking about how difficult taking them on a trip might be.

Before going on an extended trip with your pets take a trip to the vet to make sure that they’re healthy and have current vaccinations. It’s always a good idea to keep a copy of your pet’s current vaccination certificate with you when traveling with your four-legged friend. Many places that allow pets—even if they’re just passing through—will require verification of vaccinations. Another good way to keep track of your pet while on the go is to make sure he or she can be easily and properly identified. Make sure they have a sturdy leash and collar with identification tags, and consider carrying a recent picture of your pet with you just in case they do get spooked and run away. Permanent forms of identification, such as a microchip, can be helpful in any instance if your pet does get lost.

When traveling long distances in the car with your pet it’s best to first acclimate them to riding in the car by going on short trips with them around town. Make sure to carry plenty of water with you for your pet and check your route for accessibility of frequent potty and walk breaks. If your pet has experienced car sickness in the past try having them travel on an empty stomach, but still drink plenty of water!

Air travel certainly gets you to your destination faster, but can require more planning than packing your pet in for a road trip. Every airline has its own specifications for traveling with a pet, and some do not allow pets to go on planes. Verify with your airline prior to booking tickets what the process is for traveling with your pets. Some airlines will require proof of vaccinations as well as a current health certificate that you must acquire from your veterinarian prior to travel. Pets must be contained in an airline-approved transport crate, which should allow for proper comfort and adequate range of motion for your pet.

Whether traveling by car or plane, if you intend on staying at a hotel or motel make sure you check in advance as to if they allow pets. Many lodging places do not allow pets and the ones that do may have size or breed restrictions, so ask all questions about your particular pet before paying to reserve a room.

All in all, the best thing you can do when traveling with your pet is just to have a good time! It’s not always that they get to vacation with us, they’ll have as much fun as you do!

Source: http://www.akc.org/public_education/travel_tips.cfm

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