How to Travel with Your Pet
As summer continues, you may be looking forward to travelling and exploring new places. Taking your pet on your next trip can be a great way to spend some quality time with your furry friend. However, there are a few things you need to know about pet travel before you plan your next adventure.
In this article, we’ll discuss how to make sure your pet is healthy enough to travel, different modes of transportation, and some important safety tips.
🧑⚕️ Is Your Pet Healthy Enough to Travel?
Before you plan your pet’s next trip, it’s critical to ensure they are healthy enough for travel. Travel can be stressful and may increase your pet’s likelihood of experiencing a medical emergency.
If you are considering traveling with your pet, schedule an appointment with your local veterinarian. Your vet can evaluate your pet’s health and determine if it’s safe for your pet to travel. If your pet has an underlying health condition, additional safety precautions may be necessary, and your vet can make recommendations based on your pet’s unique needs.
In addition to having your pet examined by your vet, you should also check with your destination to see if there are any specific travel requirements. This is especially important if you are traveling out of state or out of the country. Many destinations require a health certificate and vaccine record.
A health certificate is a document that states that your pet has been examined by a veterinarian and is healthy for travel. This form must be completed within a certain number of days before your trip and signed by a USDA accredited veterinarian.
🗺️ Picking Your Mode of Transportation
When planning your trip, it’s’ essential to consider your mode of transportation and which options are best for your pet. Cats and dogs can travel by both air and car. However, there are specific regulations and requirements for each.
✈️ When flying with a pet, there are two different options. Smaller pets can usually fly in the main cabin. However, larger pets often have to be flown as cargo.
Before booking your flight, check with the airline to see if they allow pets. If they do, make sure you understand what is required for your pet to fly. There are quite a few rules around crate travel, so make sure to familiarize yourself with them.
🚘 Since air travel can be expensive, many owners prefer to travel by car. Car travel allows for more flexibility and is often less stressful for your pet. When travelling by car, it’s essential to ensure your pet is properly restrained in your vehicle. While this is important for their safety, it is also required by law in many states. Consider using a pet seat belt or a travel crate to secure your pet during your trip. Pet seat belts come in different varieties, most attach to your pets' harness.
🐩 Safety First!
Whether your pet is travelling by plane or car, safety should always be a top priority. If your pet is using a travel crate, it’s essential to ensure the crate is an appropriate size and meets specific safety standards. According to the Animal Welfare Act, travel crates should be large enough for your pet to sit, stand, lie down, and turn around comfortably. It’s also important to ensure the crate is well ventilated to allow proper airflow and prevent your pet from overheating.
Not all pets are comfortable in a crate, so it might take some time for your pet to adjust to their travel accommodations. Consider purchasing your travel crate ahead of time and give your pet plenty of opportunity to explore their new space. This can significantly reduce your pet’s stress and make traveling a more enjoyable experience.
If you are flying with your pet, make sure you check with the airline to see if there are any specific crate requirements. Pet carriers for the main cabin must be small enough to fit under the seat in front of you. If your pet is travelling as cargo, many airlines have strict requirements about the size and sturdiness of the crate.
Other essential safety considerations include the temperature conditions you are travelling in and making sure your pet has access to food and water. Avoid travelling in extreme temperatures and never leave your pet in the car unattended. Before starting your trip, make sure your pet is fed and has plenty of access to water. You may also need to bring additional food and water to offer them during your journey.
😎 Summary
Travelling with your pet can be an excellent way to explore new sights and strengthen the special bond you share with your pet. If you have specific questions about travelling with your pet, we recommend scheduling an appointment with your local veterinarian. They can provide additional advice and tips based on your pet’s specific needs.
We hope these tips will make your travel experience safe and enjoyable for both you and your pet.
