Traveling with your Pets
When you are planning a trip that includes your four-legged family member, there are some things to consider. Accommodations, safety while traveling, and security throughout the course of your get-away.
Ten Tips for Before the Trip
From planning your vacation to purchasing the right travel equipment, these tips can help you to be well-prepared for traveling with your cat or dog.
1. To secure your pet’s identity and to track them if they are lost, be sure to microchip your pet before you leave.
2. Be sure that their collar and tag has proper identification. A tag imprinted with your name, phone number and any relevant information, as well as a temporary contact number (such as a hotel and room number) should be included on the collar.
3. Be sure all vaccinations are up-to-date, and they have been health checked by the vet. Keep a record of these with you.
4. If you are traveling by air, book direct flights to reduce the chances of your pet spending extended time on the tarmac or being mishandled by baggage personnel during a layover. Whenever possible, if the pet is small enough, have them ride under your seat with you in the main cabin.
5. For travel outside of the continental United States, additional planning and health care requirements may be necessary. Contact the foreign office of the country you are traveling to for pet requirements, quarantines, etc.
6. Purchase a USDA-approved shipping crate (required by airlines). The crate should be clearly marked with the words “Live Animal,” and your contact information. Choose a crate that is large enough for your pet to stand, sit and turn around in comfortably. Make sure the crate door is securely closed, but not locked, so that airline or emergency personnel can open it.
7. Even if you are not flying, a sturdy crate will come in handy at your hotel room or other accommodations.
8. Make sure your hotel room or rental allows pets. Check for breed and size restrictions.
9. Bring a photograph of your pet should they be separated from you for any reason.
10. If planning to travel a long distance by car, prepare your pet by taking him on a series of short drives first, gradually lengthening the time spent in the car.
After Arriving
When you arrive at your destination after being separated from your pet, bring a treat for when you retrieve them. Gently soothe them as they are likely to be very anxious.
Five Tips for Car Safety and Your Pet
Here are a few car travel safety tips to help you prepare for a safe and enjoyable trip with your pet:
1. Secure your pet. If you are not using a crate in the car, don't allow your pet to ride with his head outside the window. Always keep them in the back seat in a harness attached to a seat buckle.
2. Prepare a pet-friendly travel kit. Bring food, a bowl, leash, a waste scoop, plastic bags, grooming supplies, medication and first-aid, and any relevant documents. Pack a favorite toy or blanket to help soothe your pet.
3. Feed your pet a few hours before beginning your trip, so they are not starting on a full stomach. Be sure they have enough water.
4. Never leave your animal alone in a parked vehicle. On a hot day, even with the windows open, a parked automobile can become intolerably hot quickly. In cold weather, a car can act as a refrigerator, holding in the cold and causing the animal to freeze to death.
At the Hotel or Rental
When you get to your destination, spend time with your pet in their new environment to help them get comfortable. If you have decided to bring your pet with you on a trip, then you have chosen to make them a part of the vacation. Find nearby pet-friendly activities to include them in your vacation or holiday.
Call our Hesperia Veterinarian to Learn More or to get Your Pet Ready for Travel
At Antony Animal Hospital, Dr. Amy can check your four-legged family member and assure they are fully vaccinated and ready for travel.