How Will You be Traveling?

Traveling by Car

With rides to the vet and groomer, many pets may already be accustomed to this method of travel. If not, take a few short rides before your trip. Cats and other small animals should be confined to a cage or crate, while it is recommended that dogs be kept in a harness or safety restraint.

 

It is also important that your vehicle is in good working condition. Make sure your air conditioning and heating units are functioning properly before travel. Avoid temperature changes—some pets are sensitive and it is best to keep your car, much like your home, at a standard level during the trip.

 

Make frequent stops for your pet to rest, relieve itself and stretch. Keep your pet on a leash when stopped. You never know how he/she will react in a new place, and you don’t want Fluffy or Fido to run away, or into traffic. Never leave your pet in an unattended car. A car parked in the sun can quickly become overheated. Your pet can also become a prime target for theft.

 

If you plan to feed your pet while on the open road, avoid overfeeding. If your pet isn’t accustomed to motion this could spell disaster! It is best to give the main meal at the end of the day or when you reach your destination.

 

If you plan to rent a car, it is important to read the fine print. While most car rental companies rent to people traveling with pets, some include additional fees for cleaning and scotch guarding.

 

When driving cross-country, be sure to contact a state veterinarian in the originating and destination states to check on any necessary medications or certificates that your pet may need.

 

Airplane Travel

Airline pet transportation is governed by the International Airline Transportation Association (IATA). Many pet owners have concerns about this form of transportation. Unpleasant experiences can be avoided by asking yourself certain questions before the trip.

Is your pet old enough to fly? Federal regulations require that all pets must be at least eight weeks old and fully weaned before traveling with the airlines.

Will the breed of your pet cause any complications? It is recommended that certain breeds including Boston terrier, bulldog, boxer, chow chow, Lhasa apso, Pekinese and shih tzu dogs, as well as Himalayan and Persian cats not travel by air. These breeds have short nasal passages that leave them vulnerable to oxygen deprivation and heat stroke. It is best to check with the airline, for any other breed restrictions, when making reservations.

Is your pet’s health appropriate for air travel? Airlines and state health officials generally require health certificates for all animals transported by air. A licensed veterinarian must issue certificates no more than 10 days before your departure.

When and where are you traveling? Not all airlines will guarantee acceptance of a pet. Do some research and find an airline that not only travels to your destination, but will guarantee that both you and your pet are comfortable and safe. Be sure to contact the airline ahead of time to see if your pet will be allowed on the chosen flight. Always contact the airline at least 48 hours prior to the flight to check if there is adequate space for both you and your pet. When traveling with your pet, consider the length of your flight. Book direct, nonstop flights, which are more likely to ensure the safety and comfort of your pet.

What days of the week does your travel involve? Avoid weekend, holiday and mid-afternoon flights. These flights tend to have a larger number of passengers, which could mean an uncomfortable flight for both you and Fido. If you are traveling anywhere outside of the United States, be sure to familiarize yourself with the travel destination’s quarantine and health requirements. A full-service travel agency or pet travel service can provide you with this information.

Will the weather be a deciding factor? Don’t travel with pets when temperatures are 40 degrees or below or 80 degrees and above at departure city or destination. If traveling in the summer, choose early morning or late evening flights to beat the heat. During winter months, it is best to book afternoon flights to avoid any bitterly cold temperatures. Many airlines will not allow animals as cargo or checked baggage from mid-May until September, to avoid any heat-related tragedies.

Is the pet’s carrier or crate suitable for flight? This is a very important element in traveling by air. All airlines are required to follow federal regulations on the size, strength, sanitation, and ventilation of on-board pet carriers and kennels. Check with the airline before deciding on a carrier for your pet. The ideal carrier fits the following description:

• It is strong and free of any objects that could harm your pet during flight.

• It has a solid, leak-proof floor that is covered with litter or absorbent lining.

• It is well ventilated with openings that make up at least 14 percent of the total wall space. • It has grips or handles for lifting.

• It is labeled with identifying marks such as pet’s name, your address, phone number and destination phone number and contact.

 

Other methiods of transportation. There are very few cruise lines that allow pets, but many have begun to amend previous pet restrictions. If you plan to take a cruise with your pet, check with the cruise line or ship for their policies. Smaller ships generally will not accommodate pets. If you decide to travel by bus or train, you may want to consider leaving your pet at home. Both Amtrak and Greyhound only allow Seeing Eye dogs. Local and commuter trains have their own policies. It is best to check ahead of schedule when using either mode of transportation.