Added: 04/25/2007 |
Things To Consider When You Travel With PetsNo pet owner likes to see the sad look in his or her pet's eyes as the pet realizes it is to be left behind in a kennel or with a pet sitter while its human friend takes a fun, exciting trip. But travel with pets can be a real challenge. When it's just humans on the trip, you can go wherever and whenever the spirit moves you, but if you're traveling with your animal companion, you need to make plans in advance. This article will guide you through a number of things to consider when you travel with pets.
Vaccinations. When you travel with pets, your pets should be up to date on all of their shots. Be sure to bring along your veterinarian's name and phone number as well as proof of vaccinations in case your pets gets into trouble along the way.
Collars. Even the best animals stray. If your pet is a dog or a cat, it should wear a collar with a "please return" tag, available at most pet stores. The tag should clearly state the pet's name, your name, and a number where you can be reached on the road (e.g., your cell phone or pager).
Hotels. More hotels are accepting pets these days, but don't make any assumptions. Confirm in advance that your pet will be a welcome guest. It's not a good idea to try to sneak your pet into a hotel that doesn't accept animals. You may find you and your pet out on the street without a place to stay.
Airlines. If part of your travel involves flying, call the airline and ask about their policies for pets. In general, larger pets are shipped as "cargo," but some airlines will allow smaller pets to ride in the cabin with you.
International Laws. Each country has different regulations about bringing pets across its borders. Some will accept your pet with current proof of vaccinations. Others may require a quarantine period. A good site to begin your research is the APHIS International Animal Export Regulations (http://www.aphis.usda.gov/vs/ncie/iregs/animals/). Since international travel regulations can be complex, when you travel with pets overseas, you might want to hire a pet travel service to help you with arrangements. To locate a pet travel organization, check out the International Pet and Animal Travel Association (IPATA -- http://www.ipata.com/index.php).
Nerves. Travel can put a real strain on your pet's nerves, especially if your animal companion tends to be anxious anyway. When you travel with pets, you may want to talk to your vet to see if a mild sedative for your pet would make the trip easier.
Car Travel. When you travel with pets, always make sure your pet has access to fresh water. If you are traveling with a dog, take a break every one to two hours and let your pet out to stretch his legs. Remember to keep a leash on him at all times. Cats tend to get car sick easily, so pull over every so often to change the water, clean up any messes, and provide your pet a little reassurance. Your pet should ride in a carrying case during car travel to avoid the risk of her jumping on your lap or shoulders or crawling between your foot and the brake.
Pet Travel Insurance. Pet travel insurance is far more popular in the United Kingdom than it is in the United States. If you are traveling by air, check with the airline--it may be possible for you to purchase insurance for your pet for the flight part of the travel. If you have a valuable or exotic animal, you may be able to arrange a special insurance rider as part of your automobile or home insurance policy, but the average mutt or domestic cat is not readily insurable for travel.
Travel with pets can be a great experience for the whole family (two-legged and four-legged members alike). Just remember to make a few phone calls to set things up in advance. Then relax and enjoy your vacation.
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