Traveling with your pet can be a
rewarding experience, but a successful trip depends on more than packing your
pet’s favorite tennis ball or catnip toy.
To ensure the safety and happiness of
your pet, start planning early, research transportation and lodging options,
and make an appointment with your veterinarian.
Jet Setters
Most major airlines transport animals,
but before booking a flight, consider all the factors, including your pet’s
size and temperament and possible weather conditions.
Pets that are too large to fit in a pet
carrier under your seat must fly as checked baggage in the plane’s cargo
section.
Many animals become anxious in unfamiliar
environments, particularly when separated from their owners, and can suffer
both emotionally and physically during a flight.
Sedation is not considered a safe option.
"An animal’s natural ability to
balance and maintain equilibrium is altered under sedation," says Patricia
Olson, DVM, of the Morris Animal Foundation. "When the kennel is moved, a
sedated animal may not be able to brace and prevent injury.”
Gary L. Rose, DVM, of AAHA-accredited
Cabrillo Veterinary Hospital in San Diego, Calif., adds “When heavily sedated,
some short-nosed breeds can have trouble breathing.”
Temperature extremes can also put your
pet at risk. Many airlines do not transport pets during the hottest months of
the year, or will not accept pets when the forecasted temperature is above a
certain point.
Look for flights in the early morning or
late evening, when temperatures are at their lowest.
On the Road
Of course there are also safety concerns
when traveling by car. Pet crates are strongly recommended.
If an accident occurs, pet crates can
protect animals from impact injuries and also prevent them from running out
into traffic.
Marci Cook, DVM, of AAHA-accredited
Shiloh Veterinary Hospital in Billings, Mont., says, “A crate offers a safe
environment for your pet and helps them to feel comfortable.”
Rose recommends introducing your pet to
the crate over several weeks. “Get them used to it by feeding them in it, and
by taking short trips around the neighborhood to see how they do.”
For pets prone to motion sickness, Rose
advises, “Make sure there’s adequate ventilation in the car. Keep [it] cool and
comfortable. If your pet still shows signs of motion sickness, medication is
available through your veterinarian.”
Lodging
Always research accommodations
before
leaving home, and make reservations whenever possible.
Many hotels and inns allow pets but may
have size and weight limits, breed restrictions, or a limit on the number of
pets allowed per room.
Campgrounds also have pet policies and
occasionally prohibit pets altogether. State and national parks that allow pets
often restrict them from certain areas, such as hiking trails and beaches.
Health Certificates
Most airlines require pets be examined by
a veterinarian no more than 10 days prior to the date of travel. Be prepared to
present health and rabies certificates at the time of departure.
If you are traveling by car, pack a copy
of your pet’s prescriptions and vaccination records. Some states require proof
of rabies vaccination.
Your veterinarian can also tell you if
your pet needs additional vaccinations or preventive medications for the area
in which you will be traveling.
Travel Tips and Car Safety
- Be sure your pet is wearing a flat collar with identification
tags at all times.
- If your pet doesn’t have a microchip, consider having one
implanted.
- Know basic pet first aid, and carry a first aid kit.
- Never allow your pet to travel with its head outside the car
window.
- Do not allow pets to ride in the front seat. They are at risk of
being thrown into the windshield, can interfere with your ability to
drive, or could be injured by an airbag.
- Disable electric window controls. Dogs have have been know to get
their heads stuck in windows after stepping on the buttons.
- Stop for “potty breaks” every two hours.
- Always leash your pet before opening the car door.
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