Tips On Traveling with Your Pet

Do you have any late-summer trip plans? Whether it’s a private lodge or a family beach gathering, some of our furry friends love to explore new places with their humans. But before you embark on your journey, it’s crucial to plan carefully, especially if you’re traveling with your pet. To help you navigate this, we’ve gathered recommendations from a local Peterborough, ON veterinarian on traveling with Fido and Fluffy.

Driving with Pets

Car rides are far gentler for Fido and Fluffy than airplanes. Some of the same rules apply: you’ll still need to use caution.

What If My Pet Gets Car Sick?

Some pets, like humans, are prone to vehicle sickness. If your pet gets sick on the road, consider desensitizing them by taking them for drives. Begin with short ones, then increase the distance. Your Peterborough, ON veterinarian may also be able to prescribe medications.

How Can I Keep My Pet Comfortable on Car Rides?

Getting a fantastic crate is a good start, but it’s not the only thing you’d want to consider.

Make sure the cabin is comfortable. If you’re driving in the summer or winter, start the car and adjust the climate control before taking your pet out.

You should also ensure that your pet has plenty of fresh air. Crack a window and/or activate the A/C.

Make sure to take regular breaks to allow Fido to stretch his legs and relieve himself. This is an excellent opportunity to use an app that locates parks and trails.

Do I Need To Crate My Pet For Travel?

When flying, pets must be in a container or carrier by law. This isn’t generally regulated for car rides, but it’s still your best bet by far. Even if Fido glances around and rides with his head out the window, this is extremely unsafe. Bugs, gravel, dust, or even lighted cigarettes might all end up in your dog’s face. Furthermore, if you had to stop abruptly—or worse, had an accident—he would be in grave danger of being hurt.

If your pet hasn’t been crate trained, you’ll want to see to that ASAP. It is critical that your pet sees their crate as a comfortable den rather than a jail cell. You want him to have positive associations with it. Begin by offering them toys and treats in their crate, followed by feeding them there. From there, you’ll move to closing the door and gradually increasing the amount of time your pet spends in the crate.

Crates aren’t the only option. You can also consider using netting and seat belts during car rides. Just take caution with these. They prevent your pet from moving around the cabin but may provide little—if any—protection in the event of an accident. Read reviews and consult your Peterborough, ON veterinarian for advice.

Packing for Pets

Do not forget to bring a travel bag for your four-legged travel companion! You should include food, treats, a few toys, towels, bedding, a spare leash and collar, a tie-line, and a pet first aid kit. A pet first aid kit is crucial in case of emergencies and should contain items like bandages, antiseptic wipes, tweezers, and any medications your pet may need. 

It’s also vital to bring your documents. (Tip: Put them in the cloud so you can access them from anywhere.) If you’re unsure whether your pet’s food will be available at your location, consider shipping some to yourself ahead of time.

Flying with Pets

Flying can be quite stressful for pets, even if they aren’t worried about things like luggage weight or finding your layover gates. 

While we generally advise against flying with pets unless absolutely necessary, if you find yourself in a situation where you must, it’s essential to be well-prepared. This means taking your time to thoroughly research and understand the airline’s policies and procedures before booking your flight.

People frequently wonder about the laws for flying with dogs. The TSA has some common protocols and procedures for getting pets through security. Pets must be leashed or in carriers, though you may need to remove the leash and transport your pet through the metal detector. The carriers will also be inspected.

Aside from that, each airline is different. Southwest, Alaska, United, American, Delta, Hawaiian, Spirit, and Frontier are among the airlines that allow pets to travel in-cabin (or have before). However, you should check with the airline itself. They may also differ depending on factors such as weight limits and whether you are permitted to purchase a seat for your pet.

Service animals, of course, are always permitted on flights: this is by federal law.

What To Consider Before Booking A Flight For Your Pet

If you’re flying with Fido or Fluffy, try to book a direct trip if possible. If your pet is tiny enough to travel in the cabin, that is ideal. Larger pets may need to travel in the luggage section. Think twice before booking this way, because this can be stressful and uncomfortable. Not only are the cabinets loud, but they do not have the same climate control as the cabin. If there are any delays, your pet may be stuck in his kennel for a while.

If possible, try to book a direct flight. A three-hour straight flight will be gentler on your canine companion than a 14-hour excursion with layovers.

That does not mean that pets cannot travel safely in cabins. Simply be diligent. Check out each airline and read reviews from people who have traveled with dogs. Also, consider booking a direct flight or one with a brief layover.

You’ll also want to consult your vet. You may require travel certificates. Your pet may also require further vaccinations or parasite preventatives. Of course, the specific options will vary depending on where you’re traveling. Someone going to Texas may want to consider a rattlesnake vaccine, while someone going to New Hampshire may be better off with a Lepto one.

It may also be beneficial to give your pet anti-anxiety medication or a sedative before traveling. Never give your pet anything unless your vet recommends it, though.

Also, make sure your pet is microchipped and wears ID tags. GPS tags aren’t a terrible idea. Simply consider your options before making a purchase.

It’s also critical to ensure that your contact information is on the carrier. You can use baggage tags for this, or you can cover a mailing label with clear tape.

Exploring on Vacation

What happens when you get to your destination? Hopefully, this goes without saying, but keep your dog on a leash or in fenced areas. You should also read up on local risks. Every habitat has a unique flora and fauna, some of which may be dangerous. 

Also, make sure to book pet-friendly accommodations at your destination to ensure a comfortable stay for both you and your pet.

When you get to your destination, take Fido for a walk and allow him to explore. This is an excellent approach for you and your pet to acquire a feel for your surroundings while also spending time together!

Book An Appointment At Our Peterborough, ON Pet Clinic

Does your pet require a travel certificate? Please do not hesitate to contact us for any of your pet’s veterinary requirements. As your Peterborough, ON veterinary clinic, we’re here to help!