|
Your pet is part of your family so make sure you treat them that way. If you are planning on traveling with your pet there are a few steps you can take to make sure that your pet arrives at your destination healthy and happy.
Whether you are traveling by plane, boat or car you need to do some advance planning to find out what their regulations state. Unfortunately trains and buses generally do not allow pets. Airlines, boats and hotels all have specific rules regarding pets and you need to adhere to these. If you are traveling out of the country you will also need to obtain the information regarding vaccinations, quarantines and also what documentation you will need your vet to provide.
The first thing you need is a crate. This should be large enough for your pet to comfortably stand in, but not too large. You should have this in your home for at least a week before you leave so that your pet can become comfortable with it. Make sure the crate is clearly marked with your name, address, phone number, both home and the destination, and the name of the pet. Also be sure that the crate is marked with the words "live animal," if the animal is flying in cargo.
If you are traveling by air, you book a nonstop or direct flight. If you have to book a connecting flight, check with the airline on how your pet will be transferred. On these connections, you will probably have to claim your pet at the baggage department and then recheck for the next flight. This can be traumatic for your pet as well as time consuming for you. Also important is to travel at a time of day when the temperatures are most likely to be temperate. Not only can the airline refuse to ship your pet if the temperatures do not meet federal regulations, you wouldn’t want your pet traveling in extreme heat or cold.
If you are traveling by car do not let the pet ride unrestrained. Buy a car seat that keeps the pet secure and able to see outside the car window, or put the animal in a crate. If the animal is allowed to be free they could be seriously injured in the most minor of fender benders. You will also need to contact the hotels you are planning on stopping at. Many hotels are very pet friendly, but they may want to change your room assignment if they know in advance. Having a pet on the 5th floor may not be suitable for any of you.
If you're taking a cruise many of the larger cruise lines provide special lodging and meals for your pet. Cunard’s QE2 for example has air-conditioned kennels with an attendant who checks on them several times a day. Check with the ship that you are planning to use for their policies. Smaller ships may not be able to accommodate your pet.
No matter how you choose to transport your pet do not tranquilize them without consulting your vet first. Many sedatives that are appropriate for dogs can kill cats. Also, the vet needs to know if the pet is flying because the change in air pressure can affect how the sedative affects the animal.
With a little advance planning and preparation your next vacation will be memorable for all the members of your family, even the four footed members.
| 
