Before you go
Ask yourself: will my dog be comfortable and happy on this trip? Some animals simply
prefer to stay at home and a "homesick", possibly motion-sick pet will
ruin everyone’s trip. In such a case it’s probably wiser to leave your pet with
a friend, relative or hire a "petsitter". If that is not possible, you
might consider boarding him or her at a clean, well-run kennel.
Plan ahead
If you do decide to take your pet along, you must take as much care with the preparation
of your pet’s trip as your own. If you plan to travel by plane, bus, train or boat,
find out if your pet will be welcome and what kind of reservations and transport
arrangements must be made. If you’ll be staying at hotels, motels or campgrounds,
you must check if animals are allowed or if kennel facilities are available. If
you’re staying with friends or family, make sure your pet is also invited.
Traveling by plane
- Contact the airline you wish to fly well in advance – each has its own regulations
and reservations for your pet will be necessary.
- Be sure to ask about the airline’s rules for pet crates or carriers.
- Try to book a direct flight or one with a minimum of stops.
- The airline may allow your pet in the passenger cabin if your crate or carrier can
fit under the seat in front of you. If your pet must travel in the cargo hold, be
at the airport early, place him in his travel crate yourself and pick him up promptly
when you land.
- Establish that your pet will be in a pressurized area of the plane – cargo
holds can get very hot or very cold without environmental controls.
Traveling by car
- If your pet is not used to being in a car, take him or her for a few short rides
before your trip. Your dog will probably be safer and more comfortable in a crate.
- Pets should NEVER be allowed to put their heads outside the window when riding in
a car. Dirt particles can cause injury or infections and cold air taken into the
lungs can lead to illness.
- Plan ‘snacks’, exercise and rest stops about every two hours if you’re taking a
long drive.
- Give the main meal at the end of the day. Dry food is more convenient but if your
pet needs canned food, dispose of any unused portions if they cannot be refrigerated.
- It is not recommended to leave your dog in a parked car for a prolonged period of
time. If you must leave your pet in a parked car, lock all doors and open windows
enough to provide good ventilation, without allowing him enough room to jump out
or get his head caught. Remember, on hot days, the temperature in a parked car can
rise to dangerous levels in just minutes and your pet could die of heat stroke.
Traveling by bus, train or boat
- Not all bus lines allow you to travel with your pet, so phone ahead for information.
- Amtrak does not permit pets to travel in passenger cars but they may travel in cages
as checked luggage.
- Some cruise ships do welcome pets. Check with the cruise line or ask your travel
agent.
Wherever you go
- Ensure your pet ALWAYS wears a collar with complete identification and a license
tag. Microchipping with HomeAgain® is the way to ensure you will retrieve
your animal should it be lost.
- Pack his or her favorite food, toys, dishes, a cooler of water and a leash.
- Have your pet examined and vaccinated, if necessary, by your veterinarian before
a long trip.
- If your pet must travel in a crate or carrier, be sure it is strong, large enough
for him to stand up and turn around, has a place for food and water, is well ventilated,
has a leak-proof bottom and closes securely.
- Contact the consulate or embassy of your destination or ask your travel agent for
advice if you are planning a trip abroad with your pet, as health and vaccination
regulations vary greatly.
IMPORTANT: If your pet gets "motion sickness" check with your veterinarian
for appropriate medication.
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