Expert Tips for traveling with pets

Sometimes the hardest part of vacation is leaving your pet behind. We caught up with Dr. Kerri Marshall, Head of Veterinary Services at Trupanion, for some tips on bringing your best friend with you.

• Be sure to take your pet on short excursions in the weeks leading up to the trip, gradually increasing the length of the trip as your dog or cat gets used to car trips.
• Make frequent stops and for longer periods of time. Many service areas have a designated area for pets where they can get some fresh air and stretch their paws.
• Be sure to bring water (your pet needs to be hydrated at all times!), food, treats, toys, poop bags or a litter box, harness and leash, a water bowl, ID and medical documentation, a bed or blanket, and any medication you may need.

• Try taking your pet on road trips. If you want her to travel with you on the train or plane, socialize her early and enroll her in obedience classes. This will help your pet to become a calm and well-behaved travel companion during the trip.
• Do not let your pet climb on top of anyone, unless it is going to be welcome. We know that your dog is the cutest in the world, but there may be people who are not in the mood to stop and cuddle him. Others might even be allergic to or afraid of them.
• If you are going to take your pet by train, bus or plane, keep your pet in its carrier. There are some with very good ventilation that will help keep your pet cool during the trip. Place two absorbent pee mats on the bottom so you only have to lift it up and throw one away if your pet has to use it.

• Use harnesses, carriers or barriers when you take your pet in the car. Just like humans, they need to wear a seat belt.
• Keep your pet in the back seat and don’t drive if you’re distracted. In the event of an accident, pets riding in the front seat can face serious injuries from airbags or impact with the windshield. Putting your pet in the back seat is much safer for both the animal and the driver.

• Your pet will appreciate taking something familiar with them during the trip. Be sure to bring a favorite toy or blanket that smells like you. This will help relax and comfort her.
• In some cases, it may be a good idea to medicate your pet. Visit your vet before the trip to consult the different alternatives.

• Feed, walk, and play with your pet at the same times you normally do at home to avoid added stress.
• Do not change your pet’s diet during the trip.
• Keep your dog or cat controlled in the new environment. Many pets get lost on vacation when they get lost in an unfamiliar place.

• Make sure your pet gets plenty of exercise and drinks water, arrive early at the airport, and don’t forget to bring your vet’s health certificate and up-to-date rabies vaccination record.
• Be prepared when you go through customs with your pet and have a safe way to get your pet out of the carrier. You will have to go through security control just like your luggage. In this case, you will need a metal-free leash and harness to go through the scanner. If you do not want to remove your pet from the carrier, you can request a secondary inspection.

• Some countries have very strict quarantine requirements to ensure that the animals do not carry rabies. Check with your veterinarian, who must provide an international health certificate to travel. Plan ahead and make an appointment 30 days before the trip.
• In some cases, it is best to give your pet some medication to help him stay calm during trips, especially longer ones. The safest medication is Benadryl. It is vital that you choose a form of Benadryl that does not contain other medications for cold or sinus symptoms; only the pure form of Diphenhydramine Hydrochloride is safe for your pet. Talk to your vet before the trip to find out how much you can give your pet or if he needs a stronger option.
• Take out medical insurance before the trip to cover the expenses of the veterinarian in case you suffer any illness or injury during the trip. Verify that the policy allows you to go to a vet outside your country of origin if your pet needs it.

• Visit your vet before the trip, preferably 10 days before departure, and ask for a health certificate. Many airlines require a certificate to travel with pets. Consult your vet about proper procedures, including the advantages and disadvantages of cabin or hold and medication options.
• Choose an airline-approved carrier that is comfortable for your pet. Both soft and hard carriers are available at most pet stores. Make sure there is adequate ventilation and that your pet fits comfortably and has the ability to stand up and turn around inside the carrier. Give your pet some time before you travel to get used to the new carrier, and don’t forget to include your name, address, and phone number.
• Bring a current photo of your pet as a precaution. If your pet gets separated from you, a recent photo will make it easier for you to identify it when found.

• Call ahead to verify the hotel’s pet policy. Many hotels allow pets, but that doesn’t necessarily mean they’re ready for it. Do not assume that all information on the hotel website is exhaustive. Check the pet fees, the policy about leaving pets alone in the room, and if there are any size or breed restrictions. Ask the hotel to mail you the information so you have it in writing.
• If you’re leaving your pet alone for a while, consider hiring a pet sitter to keep your dog or cat entertained while you’re gone. Most hotels forbid leaving pets alone in rooms.
• Look for a hotel with a large grassy area nearby to play with your pet, or one that offers additional services, such as dog-walking services.

• Hire a pet sitter. In-house pet sitters can give your animal a sense of security while you’re away. Walk-only sitters may also be an option, as you’ll be able to maintain the routine at home and your pet will be glad to have company. Many sitters can also pick up the mail, take out the trash, and generally keep the house safer by making it appear occupied. You could work with a friend, neighbor or family member if you don’t know of a trusted professional caregiver.
• Boarding your pet: Look for an animal hotel with a good reputation. Start by asking pet-owning friends about their experiences leaving their pets at kennels or kennels. Your vet will probably also be able to recommend one you can trust. Visit the enclosure before leaving your pet. Take a look at the facilities and see where he would sleep, eat and play. Checking out the facilities first hand is the best way to really know where your pet is staying and how it will be treated. Is the residence in good condition and does it smell clean? Do the staff seem caring and know their jobs well? Do the pets look happy?