Guidelines for Pet Travel

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 is estimated that up to 70 percent of pet owners vacation or travel with their pets. 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. So before you bring your 'best friend' with you, go through the following checklist first:

• Is it safe if I bring my pet with me?
Honestly evaluate your animal's health and his ability to travel.

• Is my pet used to traveling?
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.

• Is this trip 'pet-appropriate'?
Some destinations just are not pet-friendly.

After going through the questions, and you feel the trip will be good for your pet, or if the trip is a must because you are relocating, it's important to plan and 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. Start with short trips, such as 5 or 10 minute drives. And always remember to end the trip with a positive reward, such as a special treat or fun activity. Slowly lengthen the trips to 30 minutes or one hour.

• Road Safety
We fasten our seatbelts, so why not our pets? It's a must for you to restrain your pet as you travel. A variety of restraints are available that offer added mobility and provide an option to the traditional metal travel crate. 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. If you do need crates for example, for the smaller animals such as your cats, make sure they are well ventilated.

If you roll using one of those big RV's, you do have more freedom and flexibility, but you still need to be aware of the basics. All objects, including food and medicine, should be properly stowed, and all closet and cabinet doors should be securely closed. 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. And always remember to put the leash on your pet before you open the vehicle's doors.

• Bring a Pet Travel Kit
Always pack a separate bag for your pet. To avoid an upset stomach, take some of his favorite food, as well as a gallon of water because water characteristics change regionally. For cats, it's a good idea to bring a disposable litter box. It should come in handy for those emergencies or overnight stops. A pet first-aid kit is a must, in case of accidents. Also bring a favorite toy or object that you feel will make your pet more relaxed as he travels to new surroundings. Keep a current health certificate for your pet handy during interstate travel, because many states require one.

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