As summer comes, most Americans embark on their annual travel routine to visit friends and family, and a lot of them will be bringing not just the kids but also their pets. It is estimated that up to 70 percent of pet owners vacation or travel with their pets. And while pet-friendly hotels and a wide range of supplies make traveling with pets easier, it still requires planning.
Should I Bring My Pet?
While it's tempting to want to bring your pet with you, some animals aren't suited to travel. So before you bring your 'best friend' with you, go through the following checklist first:
• Is traveling safe for my pet?
This means you have to make the call if your pet is fit enough 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.
After going through the questions, and you feel the trip will be good for your pet, or if the trip is a must because you are relocating, it's important to plan and minimize the risk to your 'best friend'.
• Do Your Homework
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. You can start by taking him on short trips first, for example, when you shop for groceries and when you do your errands. And always remember to end the trip with a positive reward, such as a special treat or fun activity. Slowly lengthen the trips to 30 minutes or one hour.
• Road Safety
If you travel with your kids, you always fasten their seatbelts. Do the same for your pets. It's a must for you to restrain your pet as you travel. A variety of restraints are available that offer added mobility and provide an option to the traditional metal travel crate. 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. If you do need crates for example, for the smaller animals such as your cats, make sure they are well ventilated.
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. Make sure all items, such as food or medicine, are properly stowed and secured inside your RV. 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.
• Travel Kit
Don't forget to pack a separate bag for your animal. To avoid an upset stomach, take some of his favorite food, as well as a gallon of water because water characteristics change regionally. Cats can generally travel up to 10 hours without having to use a litterbox, but it never hurts to bring along a disposable litterbox for emergencies or overnight stops. A pet first-aid kit is a must, in case of accidents. Also bring a favorite toy or object that you feel will make your pet more relaxed as he travels to new surroundings. Keep a current health certificate for your pet handy during interstate travel, because many states require one.
Author Resource:
Lakshmi is a student who has gotten into IM to make a little money, promoting a varied collection of sites, such as providing info on both the dolphin pool cleaner and the hayward pool cleaner .
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