Traveling Safely with Pets

Whether you're moving or just want to bring your furry friends on vacation with you, there are a few things you should know about traveling with animals.

Before travel, you will need a few important items which can all be found at a pet supply store. A collar with an identification tag and contact information, a leash, harness, and a travel kennel are all necessities.

Whichever way you plan to travel, you will need a safe place for your pet to ride in. Some dogs can be trained to behave while riding in cars, but cats need to be contained for safety. The general rule for comfort is that a kennel needs to be big enough for your animal to stand up and turn around in. You can find suitable kennels and carriers at any pet store for a resonable price.

If you plan to fly, you will need to make sure the kennel is airline approved, with an airplane symbol on the package or tag. The best option for pets under 25 pounds is a collapsable soft carrier, which can be taken on board in the flight cabin with you. Most airlines will require proof of current shots, as well as a travel certificate from a vet within 10 days of the flight. US Airways is an exception to the travel certificate rule, and is highly recommended because of this. There will be extra fees for the pet, which will also count as your carry on.

When checking in at the airport, be prepared for the security checkpoint. Your pet will need to be temporarily removed to allow the carrier to go through the X-ray machine. Make sure your pet is secured by leash and harness ahead of time for safety during this period.

Larger pets will be required to fly in the luggage hold, which is never a pleasant option for the pet or owner, but much safer than it used to be thanks to new regulations. Among these, you will be required to carefully secure and label your pet's travel kennel with "live animal" signs.

Keep in mind that most airlines will not allow pets in cargo if the temperatures are excessively high. There are additional restrictions for certain breeds such as pug-nosed dogs, which might have trouble breathing under the atmospheric conditions of a flight. Plan ahead and have a back up option in case you will not be able to bring your pet.

Pet stores carry water and food bowls that attach to the inside of a kennel. A good idea for long trips is to fill the water bowl and freeze it overnight so your pet will have a spill proof water supply as it gradually melts. You can also buy absorption pads to line the carrier or kennel with in case your pet needs to use the bathroom.

Whenever you get a chance, take your pet out of the kennel for for a brief walk, but only while secured on a properly fitting leash and harness.

There are many animal-friendly hotels to stay at on the road or once you reach your destination. The safest option would be to search for pet-friendly hotels in particular cities and make arrangements over the phone ahead of time. Most charge extra per night, but it's usually a small fee.

When you arrive at the hotel, your pet might be afraid or stressed out from traveling and being in a new place. He or she might feel more comfortable spending some time in a small area such as the bathroom for the first night.

Before you leave your room for anything, make sure you have a privacy sign on the door so that no cleaning crew members will try to go in and accidentally let your pet out. You might even want to call the front desk and let them know not to allow anyone in your room.

Make sure you have plans in place in case of an emergency. Before you leave, do some research online and find the phone numbers of vet clinics in your destination city just to be safe in case something happens. Many Pet Smart stores have small animal clinics or resources in case you need them.

Overall, planning ahead whenever possible is the most important rule to follow when traveling with animals. Follow these basic guidelines and you will most likely have a safe and enjoyable trip.