7 Tips for Traveling with Pets

It seems that everyone is on-the-go this time of year.   Some of our pets love to travel with us; while others find it stressful.  With a little bit of foresight and planning on your part, you can make this busy time of year less stressful on your best friend (& you!)

1.  While traveling, do you best to keep your pets on their normal schedule.  Are they used to going outside first thing in the AM, again at lunch and right after dinner?  Try to keep your pets routine as intact as possible, wherever you happen to be.  Bring along your pet’s favorite food, treats and toys.  It will give them much needed consistency amidst all of the excitement and change.

2.  Thinking of flying?  Puppies, kittens, pets in heat, older or sick pets should not engage in plane travel.  Many airlines are allowing pets into the cabin so be sure to ask if you can keep your best friend with you.  Remember -if your pet is fearful of car travel with you by his side, imagine how he’ll feel in a plane without you near.  It can be a very scary experience for most pets.  If your dog or cat is uncomfortable in a crate, you may want to leave your pet at home with a professional in-home pet sitter. 

3.  Never leave your pets unattended:  Treat your pets like you would a child.  Never leave them unattended in a car or tied to poles, benches or other public places.  Pets often go missing during the holiday season and while we often associate pets in hot cars with heatstroke & medical emergencies, during the holiday season many dogs left in cars face yet another danger.  They go missing, to become gifts.

4.  Size matters (with crates that is…)  Your pet should be able to stand up, turnaround, and lay down comfortably in his/her crate.  Keep a fresh supply of water in the crate along with a toy to keep your pet happy.  And frequent breaks outside of the crate will keep your pet the happiest.

5.  Take a short trip – to the vet:  Check with your vet to make sure you pet us up for long distance travel.  Your veterinarian might have some advice to make your trip successful.  Your vet could offer a sedative for your pet, but use any medications with caution.  There are also plenty of herbal calming remedies available for traveling pets.  Tip:  Remember to bring vet records with you on your trip out of town.  Some parks or hotels might require proof of vaccination.

6.  Watch for signs of stress:  Any pet under enough stress might act out.  Be sure to keep an eye on your pet to know when he/she needs a break. You wouldn’t want your dog to bite your four-year-old niece because your pooch was overly stressed from her routine being disrupted, or not enough sleep, or being in a strange place with new people.  Just as we all need down-time during trips, our pets need it as well.  So go on, take a nap – with your best friend!

7.  ID tags need to be worn even while on vacation.  With all of the commotion & excitement, many pets go missing during holidays and vacations.   Sometimes pets “return home” after and outdoor adventure, but in a new place, they won’t even know where to return to.  Be sure to have ID tags on your pets at all times, home or away.  If the phone number listed on your ID tags is not a phone number you’ll have access to while away, update that tag.  It might be the best $5 you’ll ever spend.

8.  Know your pet:  Does your pet need consistency?  Perhaps he/she isn’t a huge fan of change?  Then traveling might just not be in the cards for your best friend.  No worries.  There are thousands of professional and trained pet sitters across the country who will not only look after your pets, but also your home, while you are gone.  Many pets prefer to stay in their home environment with all of it’s familiar smells, sounds and, let’s face it – couches!   Boarding is also an option for less nervous pets.