Easiest Rules to Follow When Traveling with Your Pet

As summer comes, most Americans embark on their annual travel routine to visit friends and family, and a lot of them will be bringing not just the kids but also their pets. It turns out that more than 70 percent of us go on vacation or travel with our pets on a regular basis. There are hotels and places you can stay in that are pet-friendly, which make it a bit easier, but you still need to do some basic planning yourself.

Is it a Good Idea to Bring My Pet?
Remember that some pets are not too comfortable with traveling. Before heading out on the road with your four-legged friend, ask yourself the following questions:

• Is traveling safe for my pet?
This means you have to make the call if your pet is fit enough to travel.

• Does my pet like to travel?
If your pet just runs away when you open that car door, it might be best to just have him stay with a pet sitter instead of bringing him with you.

• Will this trip be appropriate for my pet
For some destinations, you can tell right away that it's not good for your pets.

If, after answering these questions, you feel that the trip is in your pet's best interest, or if it is necessary because you are moving, taking the proper precautions can minimize the risk to your 'best friend'.

• Do Your Homework
If your pet's only experience in a car has been a trip to the vet, you will want to acclimate him to riding in the car a few weeks before your trip. You can start by taking him on short trips first, for example, when you shop for groceries and when you do your errands. When you get home from these short trips, don't forget to give him a treat , then start lengthening the next trips.

• Safety on the Road
We fasten our seatbelts, so why not our pets? For your animal's safety, always restrain him when traveling. You do not need to always go with those metal travel crates, as there are other options nowadays that offer more comfort and mobility . Think safety harnesses that can attach to any seatbelt, or even safety gates that will allow your pet some mobility in their own space, as you travel. Sturdy, well ventilated crates are a must for smaller animals, such as cats, that normally don't travel as much as dogs.

RV's offer pet-owners more freedom and interaction with their animals, but it's still important to pet-proof these rolling homes. Make sure all items, such as food or medicine, are properly stowed and secured inside your RV. To avoid injury to loose animals during sudden stops and turns, block off small areas with baby gates. No matter what type of vehicle you drive, you will need to stop every few hours for a pet pit stop. Also make sure your pets have their leash as you open your vehicle's doors when you go for these pit stops.

• Bring a Pet Travel Kit
Always pack a separate bag for your pet. Make sure you bring his favorite food to avoid upset stomachs, and to bring some water too since the water in other places may not suit him at all . Cats can generally travel up to 10 hours without having to use a litterbox, but it never hurts to bring along a disposable litterbox for emergencies or overnight stops. A pet first-aid kit is a must, in case of accidents. And a favorite toy or pillow will give your animal a sense of familiarity. And last but not least, bring your pet's health certificate especially if you are traveling across state lines, as most states might sometimes ask for it.

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