Traveling with Your Pet
Having your pet accompany you during your car or airplane travels may add enjoyment to your trip. Many pets have no trouble with traveling, but it’s important to keep your pet’s safety in mind while traveling.
If your travels are taking you by air, you will want to be sure to check with the airline and to familiarize yourself with the pet requirements to avoid last minute problems.
If possible, avoid flying your pets as checked cargo during times when the temperatures on the ground are likely to be below 40°F or above 80° F. Try to take direct flights with no layovers and connections, as this avoids the chance of being exposed to extreme weather.
Update all vaccinations and have a health certificate from your local veterinarian with you. Be aware that some countries require a specific international health certificate. This may take your veterinarian weeks to acquire the form so plan well in advance.
Do not feed your pet for six hours before flight, but do allow water until flight time. Have water available during flight and when you arrive at your destination.
Do not tranquilize your pet with out first discussing it with your veterinarian.
Make sure proper identification labels are permanently attached to the transport kennel. Make sure your pet wears a collar that is securely fastened with an identification tag stating your name, address and phone number.
Always travel with a leash and or harness for your pet. We strongly recommend a pet identity microchip; this will enable the authorities to locate you if your pet gets lost.
While some pets have no problems traveling, for others it can be a negative experience. It is suggested to take your pet on several short trips in the car before traveling long distance. Make the association with car riding rewarding by offering a treat as soon as the trip is over.
Make the car trip as relaxing as possible by providing plenty of fresh air with the windows cracked, not rolled down all the way. Offer a comfortable temperature and a safe place for travel. It is ill-advised to place your pet in the back of an open vehicle. Stop at regular intervals for “potty breaks” and have a “stoop and scoop” bag ready. Never leave your pet in a hot vehicle. Always consult your veterinarian with any questions.
If your travels are taking you by air, you will want to be sure to check with the airline and to familiarize yourself with the pet requirements to avoid last minute problems.
If possible, avoid flying your pets as checked cargo during times when the temperatures on the ground are likely to be below 40°F or above 80° F. Try to take direct flights with no layovers and connections, as this avoids the chance of being exposed to extreme weather.
Update all vaccinations and have a health certificate from your local veterinarian with you. Be aware that some countries require a specific international health certificate. This may take your veterinarian weeks to acquire the form so plan well in advance.
Do not feed your pet for six hours before flight, but do allow water until flight time. Have water available during flight and when you arrive at your destination.
Do not tranquilize your pet with out first discussing it with your veterinarian.
Make sure proper identification labels are permanently attached to the transport kennel. Make sure your pet wears a collar that is securely fastened with an identification tag stating your name, address and phone number.
Always travel with a leash and or harness for your pet. We strongly recommend a pet identity microchip; this will enable the authorities to locate you if your pet gets lost.
While some pets have no problems traveling, for others it can be a negative experience. It is suggested to take your pet on several short trips in the car before traveling long distance. Make the association with car riding rewarding by offering a treat as soon as the trip is over.
Make the car trip as relaxing as possible by providing plenty of fresh air with the windows cracked, not rolled down all the way. Offer a comfortable temperature and a safe place for travel. It is ill-advised to place your pet in the back of an open vehicle. Stop at regular intervals for “potty breaks” and have a “stoop and scoop” bag ready. Never leave your pet in a hot vehicle. Always consult your veterinarian with any questions.