Article By:Kathy Feather
Contributing Writer

Did you know that 37% of pet owners travel with their furry friends at least once a year?
That’s right, more and more people are choosing to take their pets along for the ride,
whether it’s for business or pleasure. But traveling with pets is not as simple as packing
a suitcase and hitting the road. Traveling with pets is like taking a roller coaster ride: it
can be thrilling, scary, fun, or nauseating, depending on how well you prepare. In this
article, I’ll share with you the essential tips and precautions to make traveling with pets
fun and stress-free.
Make advanced reservations. While many hotels do welcome our furbabies, there are
many that don’t. If a hotel accepts pets, there are often restrictions on the type of
animal, breed of animal, number of animals per room, and size of animal. Does Fido like
to bark- take note of the disturbance policy. Just reading hotels policies isn’t enough,
typically a pet must be listed on the reservation. This allows the hotel to coordinate
house-keeping services as well as ensure they have enough pet-friendly rooms
available.
Consider how you’re traveling. What transportation will you use and how far is the trip.
If you’re traveling by car, make sure to place your pet in a cozy and airy crate that allows
them to see, hear, and smell their surroundings or use a pet seat belt harness. This will
prevent them from roaming freely inside the vehicle and minimize distractions while
you’re driving. It also provides some protection in case of a car accident. When making
stops, never leave your pet unattended inside a parked vehicle. Temperatures rise
quickly in a closed vehicle and this can lead to heatstroke or other health issues.
Traveling by air? Know your specific airlines pet policies including when weather
dictates pets can’t be transported. Airlines have guidelines for crate dimensions, health
certifications, and the number of pets on any particular flight. Arriving at the airport
unprepared without a reservation for your pet could mean you aren’t flying that day. Oh
and don’t forget to plan extra time for airport check-in.
When packing for your pet, be sure to bring favorite toys, blankets, food, and bedding.
These familiar items will provide comfort and help reduce anxiety during the journey.
Pack a variety of delicious and nutritious food, tasty treats, and essential medications.
It’s always better to be over-prepared than under-prepared when it comes to your pet’s
needs.
Before embarking on your travel adventure, it’s crucial to make sure your pet is healthy
and up-to-date on vaccinations. Schedule a visit vet wellness check . If you’re flying
you’ll also need a health certification completed by the vet no more than 10 days before

departure. Keep all medical records with you when traveling. If your pet isn’t
microchipped, consider this before traveling. It can provide an extra layer of protection
should you and your pet get separated. You may even consider spending a few dollars
on a new name tag so everything is easy to read.
During extended travel, it’s crucial to prioritize your pet’s comfort. Make frequent stops
to allow them to stretch their legs, use the bathroom, eat and hydrate. If you’re traveling
by plane, choose a direct flight whenever possible. If that isn’t an option, minimize
layovers and avoid tight connections. This will reduce both your pets and your own
stress levels.
If you’ve never traveled with your pet, take a local test drive. This allows you to
understand how your pet reacts, and allows the pet to get a feel for different
surroundings.
Traveling with pets can be an amazing way to bond with your furbaby and create
unforgettable memories. But it also comes with some challenges and risks that require
careful planning and preparation. By following these tips and precautions, you can
ensure that both you and your pet have a safe and enjoyable journey. So what are you
waiting for? Grab your leash, pack your bags, and get ready for some paw-some adventures with your pet.