When you start thinking of vacation time, many people have to consider their four-legged furry friends at the same time.  Traveling with your pet can be a lot of fun, but also requires some additional planning and preparation.

First thing is that it is important to make sure that your pet is healthy enough for the trip.  This includes a visit to your vet, where you will want to make sure that you have all of the vaccinations current.  If you are traveling by air, then you will need a health certificate stating that your pet is healthy enough to fly.  Check with the airline before you go, as some require that your trip be within a certain number of days before you leave.  This is also the time to make sure that you have enough of your pet’s medications on hand as well if he is taking any long-term prescriptions.  If your pet gets anxious in the car, talk to your vet about a mild sedative to help take the edge off.  If you have a very sick or elderly pet, it might be best to consider leaving them with a friend or at a kennel instead of putting them through the stress of traveling.

Next, you are going to want to pack for your pet.  Whether flying or driving, you are going to need a sturdy carrier.  Check with the airline as to what their specifications are.  You will also need any food, bedding, and toys that your pet cannot live without.  If you have a dog, do not forget about a sturdy leash and collar that work properly.  With cats, you will want to make sure that you have a portable litter box and litter.  All pets should have a collar with current tags on it in the event that they should get away from you.  Remember, this is going to be a new and exciting experience for them, but it also might be scary.  You do not want them running off while you are away from home.  You might consider putting a new tag on with a cell phone number or the phone number you will be staying at while away.  Also obtain a copy of your pet’s medical records from the vet.  That way, if your pet should get sick and you need to see a vet while you are away, the new vet will have a complete medical history.

Next, you will want to plan your trip with your pet accordingly.  If you need to fly to your destination, look for the shortest and most direct flights.  Call the airline plenty of time in advance to make arrangements for your pet.  If you have a small dog or a cat going with you, you can see about having your pet ride in the cabin with you.  Larger pets will have to go in the luggage hold, and you will need to see what arrangements need to be made.  Make sure that their carrier is airline approved, all needed paperwork is within easy reach or displayed per airline instructions, and that your pet is comfortable and has access to fresh water.  If you need to administer a sedative, do so at least half an hour before you leave for the airport to allow it time to take effect.

If you are traveling by car, there are also some considerations that need to be made.  If you are going to be on the road more than one day, you might want to plan your rest stops ahead of time by the hotels that allow pets.  Consider how much room you have in your car.  Your pet should be properly restrained at all times – for smaller animals this means a carrier and for larger ones a crate or a seatbelt.  Pets should always have access to fresh water.  When you stop for a rest break, let your pet get out of the car as well, but always keep him on a leash.  You do not want him spooking and running off in a new place.  If you need to administer a sedative for the trip, do so about half an hour or more before you plan to depart to allow it to start working.

Traveling with your pet allows you to share your family vacation with the whole family.  A little planning and everyone will be comfortable and happy for the duration of your trip.

 

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