As the holidays approach, many families will be itching to travel. However, for some, leaving their 4-legged family members behind just isn’t an option they are willing to consider. If you are one such family, you know that traveling with pets poses challenges for both you and your fur baby. At P.A.W.S. we are here to help and have assembled some helpful advice to make sure your holiday trip is as smooth as possible.
First, and most importantly, make sure your pet is microchipped and wears a collar with identification and contact information on it. Make sure that contact info contains your cell phone and travel destination in case your pet gets lost.
Road trips are the preferred method of travel for families with pets because they are less stressful for the animals. However, they do require some pre-planning to be successful.
You’ll want to get your pet checked by a vet beforehand and acquire a copy of their vaccination records to take with you. While on the road, pets are safest in a secured crate or carrier, so they aren’t injured in sudden stops. Don’t be afraid to put comfort items into the crate/carrier, such as a blanket or favorite toy, and make sure to stick to their regular feeding schedule to minimize anxiety. When you stop for breaks along the way, don’t forget to let your fur baby out to stretch, eat, potty, and get some love and attention from his/her people. Under no circumstances should a pet be left alone in a parked vehicle due to the risks of extreme temperatures.
If you are flying, take your pet to the vet for a pre-flight checkup, verification of vaccines, and
a health certificate, as many airlines require them. You’ll also want to invest in a USDA-approved crate that is large enough for your pet to turn around in. Clearly label the crate with your contact info and pack food and water to keep your fur baby nourished and hydrated during the flight. Finally, do everything you can to keep layovers to a minimum. If possible, choose direct flights, as these
are less stressful for animals, and they provide fewer chances for them to get lost in the shuffle between flights.
Remember, as stressful as airports, layovers, and long road trips can be for people, they are even more stressful for pets who can’t understand what is happening. However, if you follow the tips outlined above, you can minimize anxieties so that everyone arrives at their destination safe and happy.
Happy P.A.W.lidays!
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