The ways in which we treat our pets has changed greatly
over the last decade, or so. To most people we know pets are not just pets
anymore, but they are considered companions and family members. As such we
desire to have them around us as much as possible, and that includes the
travels on which we embark.
Therefore, it is of utmost importance that we are aware of
our pets’ limitations, as well as of the limitations of travel with pets. It
goes without say that we also must consider our pets’ needs for such ventures.
We have put together a basic list that will help you to
prepare you and your pet for your next trip. Please be note that these are only
suggestions, and you would be best advised to consult with your veterinarian
before planning any travel with your furry friends.
Assess your pet’s
readiness for travel
The United States Department of Agriculture
("USDA") regulates air transportation of pets and requires that all
pets be at least 8 weeks old and weaned at least five days prior to flying in
order to be transported by air.
Certain breeds including Boston Terrier, Bulldog, Boxer,
Chow Chow, Lhasa Apso, Pekinese, Pug, and Shih Tzu dogs, as well as Himalayan
and Persian cats should not be transported by air as these breeds are more
susceptible to breathing difficulties caused by the thin air at altitude.
Be honest about your
pet’s ability to travel
Make sure that your pet is fit to travel. Age, pregnancy, illness, recovery from
surgery and weather conditions can have an ill affect on your pet. If you are in doubt, ask your veterinarian.
Be aware of the risks
Regardless of how cautious you and the airline are, there
are always significant risks involved anytime you decide to transport your pet
by air. Ascertain all risks before you
travel by speaking to your pet’s vet and by calling your airline of choice.
Schedule a visit with
your veterinarian
- Have your pet thoroughly checked before commencing travel.
- Make sure you have all medical supplies and certifications, such as vaccination papers, etc., current and readily available during travel.
- Ask your veterinarian about any flea, heartworm, or tick risks for areas you will be traveling to.
- If your pet becomes carsick or restless when traveling, ask your veterinarian about appropriate medications or treatments.
- Make certain that all vaccinations are up to date and obtain current health and rabies certificates no more than ten (10) days prior to your departure. You will be required to have these if your pet is traveling by air. And, if your pet does require emergency medical care, these will allow this to take place much more quickly and without the potentially dangerous duplication of vaccinations.
Obtain a secure
carrier for your pet
- You need a sturdy, properly ventilated crate of adequate size for your pet to stand up, turn around, and lie down in comfortably.
- Print your pet's name and your name, address, and phone number for both your home and destination on the outside of the crate with permanent marker.
- Never put a leash in the crate as your pet could get tangled in it.
- Your pet should wear a secure collar at all times with current tags showing proof of rabies vaccination and your name, address, and phone number.
- Never allow your pet to wear a choke, pinch, or training collar while traveling. Safety collars, which attach with elastic or Velcro, are recommended for cats.
Before you leave
- Clip your pet's nails and brush your pet to remove all loose hair.
- If your pet has fleas, obtain and complete the necessary treatment before traveling to avoid infesting its new surroundings.
- Get a sturdy leash and an extra collar.
- Get an old blanket or sheet for the back seat of your car or wherever the pet's carrier will be secured.
- Get old sheets to cover bedding and furniture at your destination, and some of your pet's bedding.
- Get sufficient amount of your pet’s food, unless you are sure that you can obtain the same brand at your destination.
- Get a food/water bowl set, and don’t forget your pet’s favorite treats and toys.
- Get a first aid kit, and have all necessary grooming supplies on hand.
- Find lodging before your departure to ensure that your pet will be welcome.
- Exercise your pet before you place it in its carrier or crate so that it may relieve itself.
While you are
traveling
- Keep fresh water available at all times.
- Avoid sudden changes of diet.
- Obey all leash laws and make certain to keep your pet on a leash or in a carrier at all times when not securely in a room.
- Clean up after your pet.
- While in your room place your pet's food and water bowls in area where they don’t have to be moved; the same applies to litter boxes.
- Avoid leaving your pet alone in the room. If you must do so, inform the front desk, turn on your radio or television to keep your pet entertained, and make sure your pet is securely crated to avoid the startled pet escaping through an open door when the housekeeper enters or, worse, attacking the housekeeper. Be aware that some hotels will refuse servicing your room while a pet is in the room alone.
- Always keep your pet leashed in new surroundings, and always clean up after your pet.
Never give your pet sedatives or tranquilizers unless
under a veterinarian's prescription. Air travel while under the influence of
these medications is especially dangerous as exposure to increased altitude can
cause respiratory and cardiovascular problems.
Consider your flight
options
We strongly discourage the use of other than nonstop or
direct flights, especially for pets that will not be traveling in the cabin.
The USDA prohibits the shipment of animals where
temperatures at either the origin or destination are below 45 degrees or above
85 degrees. Many airlines have further temperature-related restrictions.
Allow up to two extra hours for check-in and, if your pet
is not traveling with you in the cabin, arrival procedures.
Contact the airline
Each airline has its own rules and regulations, beyond the
USDA's minimum requirements. Airlines
may have any of the following transportation options for your pet: In cabin,
checked baggage, or as cargo.
Be sure to reconfirm with the airline 24-48 hours before
departure that you will be bringing your pet, and be aware that charges for pet
transportation will vary by carrier.
If your pet will be
traveling in the cabin
Make certain to have a leash or harness with you, as most
airports will require that the pet be removed from the carrier at the
security-screening checkpoint so that the carrier may be sent through the x-ray
machine. Your pet will not be allowed out of the carrier during the flight.
Be prepared
While no one likes to think about it, many pets do become
separated while away from home. To increase the chances of a safe and quick
return, bring a recent photograph and written description of your pet including
call name, breed, sex, age, any microchip or tattoo numbers, and a description
of coat, color and markings including any unusual markings, scars, or other
identifying marks, as well as weight and height. These will be invaluable if
your pet does become separated.