For many trips, like family vacations to a hotel or resort, it’s best to leave your best friend at home, where he can be watched over by a trusted friend or family member or in a safe boarding facility. There are times though – say a camping trip – when you’re going to want to bring your pet along for the ride. Dogs generally travel much better than cats, so unless you’re moving you should probably leave your feline companion at home.

Whether you’re traveling with your pet by car, airplane, or train, there are some basic steps you should take to ensure that everything goes smoothly.

• Make sure your pet is microchipped. This is doubly important when going far from home because there is more opportunity for getting separated from your pet.
• Get your pet accustomed to the crate before you ever leave home. Start several days in advance, and allow him to explore the crate, practicing getting him in and out.
• Pack a bag for your pet just as you do for yourself. Food and water bowls, leash, grooming supplies, pooper scooper and bags, medication, first aid items, and a snuggly from home to comfort your pooch should all be included.
• Don’t leave home without a visit to the vet. Not only do you want a complete bill of health for your pet, but you will also want to bring along rabies vaccination papers just in case you’re crossing into a state that requires them.

Safety Tips for Traveling by Car with Your Pet

There are certain precautions specific to car travel that you should follow in order to keep your pet safe and happy on your journey.

• Always put your pet – especially dogs – into an approved travel crate or carrier, and anchor the carrier down inside the vehicle. Roaming dogs are at as much risk as a human in the event of an accident, plus if the animal gets spooked they could interfere with the driver being able to navigate safely.
• Take plenty of rest stops. Your pet will need to stretch his legs just like you do, as well as go to the bathroom – especially if stressed from traveling. Always use a collar, leash, and ID tag when taking your pet out of the vehicle.
• Don’t leave your pet alone in the vehicle – ever. Even if it’s only for a minute your pet becomes vulnerable to heat, cold, or thieves. You wouldn’t leave your baby in the car, don’t leave your dog either.

About Air Travel with Pets

The Humane Society of the United States recommends strongly against traveling by airplane with a pet unless there’s absolutely no other alternative. If you must bring your pet on a plane, bring them in the cabin if the airline allows it. Under no circumstances should brachycephalic animals (those with “pushed in” faces like Persian cats and Pug dogs) ride in the cargo hold. They are vulnerable to oxygen deprivation as well as heat stroke.

If your pet must ride in the cargo hold, make sure you only fly direct routes and always ride on the same plane as your cat or dog. Make sure the airline adapts the hold for heat or cold. Affix an ID label to your pet’s carrier with all of your contact information. And notify the captain when you see him/her so that they are aware there is a live pet on the flight. For more information on traveling by airplane with a pet see the HSUS website.

Trains

Amtrak does not allow travel with anything but a service animal. Some smaller railways do allow pet travel, so you will have to check individually with the company you’re using about their rules and regulations.

For additional comprehensive tips on traveling with your animals, see BringFido.com. It contains loads of helpful information on making your trip safe and enjoyable for both you and your pets, including pet-friendly accommodations and dog-friendly attractions at popular destinations.