Travel Trips

For many of us our pets are our family so naturally we may wish to include them in our family vacation or even a weekend getaway. Here are a few tips to help make the trip safe and as comfortable as possible.

If travelling by plane, check with your airline for their pet travel requirements. Can they be in the cabin or will they need to travel in the cargo hold? Some limit the number of pets per flight so book early. Book direct flights if possible and travel on less busy days.

If traveling by car, you might consider restraining your pet with a pet barrier, pet seat belt, or travel crate. If using a crate, make sure it is well ventilated and is receiving a fresh flow of air. Keep them hydrated and be sure and make frequent stops for a bathroom break and for them to get some exercise approximately every 2 – 3 hours. If traveling with a cat be sure you are in a safe space where they cannot dash off before opening their carrier.

DO NOT leave your pet in the car. It takes only minutes in a vehicle on a warm day for pets to suffocate or suffer from heatstroke. Even when the temps are in the 60’s, your vehicle can reach the danger zone, and rolling down the windows or parking in the shade doesn’t guarantee protection.

Be prepared for an emergency. Find the number of the nearest 24-hour veterinary emergency hospital near where you will be staying and program it into your phone.

What to pack:

• Blanket or favorite toy from home for comfort

• Copy of health and vaccination records -make sure they are up to date • Flea and tick preventatives, pet-friendly insect repellent. • Multiple collars, leashes and harnesses with your pets’ name, your name and phone number • Consider a microchip for id • Medications

• Old towels, rags, paper towels for cleanup • First aid kit

• For cats, travel size litter box and cat litter

• Pet food, bowls, treats • Poop bags • Pet wipes, grooming products • Plenty of bottled water