Tips for Safe Travels with Your Pet

Summer Travel with Your Pet

                Summer has (almost!) arrived and many of us will soon be hitting the road or taking to the skies.  Whether you are headed to the beach, the mountains or some other far flung place, about 10-15% of people take their pets along for the ride.  If you are planning to vacation with your pet, here are some tips on how to make the trip safe and comfortable for all.

1.  Make sure you have copies of vaccine records, any pertinent medical records and enough of any medications your pet takes regularly for the duration of your trip.  You may also want to find out where the nearest veterinary emergency clinic is near your destination just in case your pet needs medical care.  It’s no fun scrambling to find urgent medical assistance in an unfamiliar place.  A little advance planning can go a long way, though hopefully you will never need it!
2. Your pet most likely needs a health certificate signed by a veterinarian within ten days of departure if you are flying, but always check specifications with the individual airline when traveling with pets.  If your pet is small enough to fit in a crate under your seat, flying with him or her in the main cabin is ideal.  But, if he or she must travel in the cargo hold, aim for a direct flight and make sure your pet is wearing a collar and that the crate is properly identified with your pet’s name and with your information.  Consider affixing a photo of your pet to the crate and carrying one with you should the unthinkable happen and your pet escapes.  Sedatives are generally not recommended if your pet will be unsupervised as they could affect breathing, but, there are some natural supplements and items like ThunderShirts that may ease anxiety for travel. 
3. If you are traveling outside the United States with your pet, make sure that you have checked all regulations well ahead of your travel date.  Some foreign countries have very strict rules and regulations that must be met.  There are links to USDA APHIS and a guide to international pet travel on our website—click on the “Services” tab then go to “Health Certificates.”  Make sure to follow the stipulations carefully or you may be denied entry.
4. When traveling by car, make sure your pet is properly secured in a crate or with a seatbelt device to prevent dangerous situations on the road.  It is also a bad idea to allow your dog to ride in the car with her head out the window.  Flying debris at high speeds could injure her.  Again, make sure your pet is wearing proper identification and, of course, never leave your pet unattended in a vehicle on a hot or on a very cold day.  Also, it is a good idea to stop frequently to allow your pet some water and exercise.
5. If your pet gets car sick, there are both over-the-counter and prescription medications that can help.  Feeding a light meal before leaving, keeping the car well ventilated and taking your pet on short trips before the big day may also reduce motion sickness.

Finally, if your pet is extremely stressed and anxious during travel, it may be kinder to leave him or her at home with a pet sitter or in a boarding kennel.While it may be difficult to think about leaving your furry friend behind, forcing your pet into a car for a long trip that he will not enjoy or having him spend hours in an airplane may not be the best thing.  If your pet hates travel, but must come with you, talk to your vet about medications or other ways to ease stress before your trip. 

Happy travels to all this summer. Allons-y!

This blog brought to you by the Patton Veterinary Hospital serving Red Lion, York and the surrounding areas.