You’ve been planning and preparing your summer vacation for months. You’ve done the research on your destination city. You’ve booked the hotel. You’ve got your checklist of what to pack. But have you planned and prepared for your pet’s comfort and care while traveling?
It’s easy to overlook this. But a little bit of planning and preparation can play a big part in the success of your adventures, for both you and your pet. Here are a few things to consider before you head out:
Schedule That Vet Visit: A visit to your vet should be at the top of your pet’s pre-travel list. Your vet can assess your pet’s overall health and fitness for travel and recommend medications for anxiety or car sickness. Keep in mind that the International Air Transport Association no longer recommends sedatives or tranquilizers for animals because they can put stress on the animal’s heart and lungs, especially if there are existing conditions.
Research Your Destination: Be sure to check with your hotels and other travel arrangements to confirm pet policies and see if there are any restrictions on bringing your pet along for the ride. If you’re road tripping within the US, check with your destination state(s) to see if they have any rules or guidelines around traveling with pets. If you’re traveling internationally, be aware that many countries require proof of vaccination and a veterinary certificate of health. All pets must be microchipped, as well. Check with your destination country so you understand what is and isn’t required.
If You’re Flying: Most airlines will no longer fly animals in cargo, which means your pet needs to be 20 pounds or less so they can fit in the cabin area. Service animals are the exception to the weight limit, however emotional support animals are not. Emotional support animals are now considered pets and must be within the 20-pound limit in order to fly in the cabin. If you’re flying the friendly skies with your pet, they must also be more than eight weeks old and you’ll need to bring along a certificate of health from your veterinarian.
TSA inspects pets before boarding, which means if you’re traveling with a cat, they will briefly come out of the carrier. It’s a good idea to have your cat in a harness for the inspection, so make sure they’re harness-trained before you leave on your trip, so their weird experience of travel isn’t made weirder by the unfamiliarity of a harness.
When is it not a good idea to take your pet on a flight? Think twice if your pet is aggressive towards people or other animals, overly anxious, elderly, pregnant, or a flat-faced breed, such as an English bulldog, with inherent breathing issues. Think twice about flying your pet in cargo, as this area is often not climate controlled and can quickly become dangerously hot or cold.
If You’re Going by Rail: Amtrak allows dogs and cats for a small fee, but there is a 20-pound weight limit that includes both the weight of the animal and the carrier. Dogs and cats can only travel in coach or Acela business class and are only allowed on trips up to seven hours. You won’t be able to step out and take your pup for a potty break when you’re speeding along on a cross-country trip!
Keep Your Pet Safe: Choose the correct carrier for your furry friend. They’ll feel safe and secure, and so will you. Carriers should be well-ventilated, leakproof, and large enough that the animal can stand up and turn around inside of it without touching the sides. You can line it with a favorite blanket or a soft mat to add comfort and add some long-lasting treats, such as a Kong or a gnaw bone or favorite toys to provide some distraction and reduce stress.
If you’re taking your pet by car, make sure to keep them on a leash at all potty stops so they don’t run off. Things happens, so it’s a good idea to have them microchipped before travel, just in case. When they’re riding in the car, use a pet seatbelt or keep them in the carrier so that they aren’t bouncing around, creating risk of an injury or distracting you while you’re driving.
Pack a care kit that includes food, treats, fresh water, toys, medicine, supplements, and a first-aid kit. You and your pet will be ready for anything!
Make your summer adventures wonderful and memorable for both you and your pet by taking the necessary steps to make it a safe and loving experience for them.
If you choose not to take your dog with you when you travel, consider such options as in-home pet care or boarding.