Vacation Planning When Traveling with Your Pets

This summer season, millions of Americans will be hitting the roads to spend time with friends and relatives, vacationing in cities and national parks, and many will be bringing their companion animals with them. 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. 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.

• 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
Some destinations just are not pet-friendly.

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'.

• Preparation
If your dog's only travel experience has been going to the vet, you may want to practice him on the art of traveling in a car, preferable a few weeks before you really take him on long trips. Start with short trips, such as 5 or 10 minute drives. When you get home from these short trips, don't forget to give him a treat , then start lengthening the next trips.

• Road Safety
If you travel with your kids, you always fasten their seatbelts. Do the same for your 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.

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. Use gates to block off space for smaller pets, to minimize injuries as you do sudden stops or turns. Whether you drive an RV or a regular vehicle, make sure you do regular pit stops for your pets. And always remember to put the leash on your pet before you open the vehicle's doors.

• Bring a Pet Travel Kit
Don't forget to pack a separate bag for your animal. 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 . 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. 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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Monica is a student who is trying to make a little pocket money promoting a varied collection of sites, such as this one on the Bellagio Hotel Las Vegas where she hangs out when she has enough money, or at the Imperial Palace Las Vegas where she goes when the budget is tight.

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