Holiday Traveling with Your Pet
As the holidays are upon us, thinking of traveling with your beloved pet can pose some serious considerations. Let’s look into a few of these to get you started.
Your pet’s health is of utmost importance when traveling. If your pet is very old, very young, anxious, or not in good health, it may be best to leave them with a trusted friend, pet sitter, or boarding kennel. Also, your pet should be able to behave themselves around new people and in strange surroundings. After all, everyone wants to have a good time, your pet included.
Be sure he or she is up to date on all vaccinations. The American Animal Hospital Association recommends rabies, distemper, parvovirus, and adenovirus-2 (hepatitis) for all dogs. Remember to take all your pet’s medications with you. If needed, speak with your veterinarian about anti-anxiety meds. It is always a best practice to consult your veterinarian’s office before traveling.
Next, your mode of transportation should be taken into consideration. Most airlines will allow your pet to travel in cabin or cargo mode. However, there are restrictions. Pet carriers and kennels come in all shapes and sizes and can be purchased to meet your specific needs. Be sure to check online or with the airline, so you know the regulations. You don’t want any surprises at the airport.
Certain short-snouted dogs such as the Pug, Boxer, and Pekingese, amongst others, should probably not fly because of respiratory issues that may present difficulty breathing with changes in altitude, temperature, and humidity. Please discuss this with your veterinarian.
Traveling by train, boat, or bus has limitations too. According to Amtrak, only dogs and cats are allowed, and then with restrictions. You will most likely need a crate or carrier. In most cases, only service dogs are allowed on buses. Hardly any cruise lines allow pets on cruises, with the exception of Cunard’s Queen Mary 2. However, it doesn’t hurt to check with the cruise line before booking, as things may have changed since the Covid-19 pandemic.
So, what about taking your pet on that long car ride to grandma’s house? Think safety first. Safety for both you, your passengers, and your pet. Crate or use a pet seat belt if he or she could be a distraction for the driver. Some state laws require your pet to be restrained in a car. At this time, Missouri is not one of them. Only roll the window down enough for a sniff, as flying debris could injure your dog’s eye or nose if hanging the head out the window.
Not sure if your pet may get car sick? There are medications available online, so ask your veterinarian what is recommended. Be sure to have plenty of water available, especially in warm weather, and stop for breaks, as your pet needs them as much as you do.
Packing for your pet is important, too. A leash and collar are a must for dogs. Pack some favorite toys, a blanket, perhaps their bed, things that your pet is familiar with will give them a sense of comfort. Treats and enough food, at least for the ride, are a given.
Last, but certainly not least, be prepared for an emergency. No one wants one, but they do happen. You may want to invest in a pet first-aid kit. Have your vet’s phone number and after-hours number readily available. Also, get emergency contact information for a veterinarian or pet hospital for where you are going.
As always, if you need more information or have questions feel free to reach out to us.
