Pet Travel Tips
Pet travel is an emotional experience for both you and your pet. How you positively deal with your vacationing pet can make a difference. Traveling Pets, just like people, require the proper luggage and travel comfort in order for a safe and stress-free vacation.
Before you leave:
- Have pets examined by a veterinarian to ensure they are healthy.
- Pets must have up-to-date vaccinations before traveling internationally.
- Before traveling take frequent drives to allow pets to get used to car travel.
- Pack your pet's leash, bedding, bowls, any medication, etc.
- Take your pet's carrier and/or pet's crate - for air travel, car travel or when alone in a hotel room.
- Ensure your pet wears proper vacation pet tags - with your name, the hotel's name and telephone or your cell number - in case they get lost.
- Bring a current photograph of your pet in case he gets lost.
- Get a referral for a veterinarian near your vacation destination.
- Pack a pet first aid travel kit with gauze, bandages, tweezers and rubbing alcohol.
- Call the airline to discuss their pet policies and fees.
- Get the proper sized airline regulation pet carrier.
- For small pet carriers try to arrange under-seat pet airline travel.
For the trip:
- Secure pet carriers or travel friendly pet crates with seat belts or bungee cords so they don't jostle your pet.
- Bring bottled water, a plastic container with ice chips and a lid.
- Give your pet a light meal, at least an hour before leaving.
- Bring your pet's blanket, treats and toys so they're comfortable and occupied.
- Bring your dog's leash and stop for frequent bathroom and exercise breaks.
- Don't ever leave your pet unattended in a warm vehicle.
