Travel safely with your pets!

Pet Travel Safety Tips

Over the holidays, many people enjoy traveling when they can to visit family and celebrate the season and the end of another year. For some people, their pets become members of their family, so the thought of leaving them behind isn’t an option. Check out these tips to help you travel safely with your furry friend this season!

How to travel safely with pets

The biggest thing to remember is that traveling can be a stressful experience for your pets, and it adds stress to you as well. Showing patience and love to your pet is important to ensure it is as enjoyable as possible for all parties. Whether you are taking a road trip or heading out on a plane, here are some tips to help you and your fur-child(ren) have a safe trip!

Traveling in a car

Prepare your vehicle. Ensure that your car is clean and there is nothing your pet could get into or eat that they shouldn’t.
Get your pet used to traveling in the car. Take your pet for some shorter car rides to help it get used to traveling in the car to make the actual trip less stressful.
Keep your pets secure. Keep your pet in a crate or carrier that they can sit, stand, turn around and lay down in. Secure the crate to the car seats so it doesn’t slide around as you accelerate and brake.
Pack a pet travel kit. Include items like food, a leash, plastic bags for waste, any necessary travel documents (such as your pet’s rabies vaccination record if you are traveling across state lines), toys, a bed or blanket, and plenty of water.
Don’t leave your pet alone in the car. Your car can reach extreme temperatures that can be unsafe for your pet if left alone too long, so always bring your pet in with you when possible, or at the very least strictly limit the amount of time your pet is in the car.

Traveling by plane

Book a direct flight. This will avoid the risk of your pet being left on the tarmac or jostled around by baggage personnel when you switch flights.
Make sure your pet’s vaccinations are up-to-date. This protects you and your furry friend in the event of an incident. You can also use the appointment to get tips from your vet on how to relax your pet for the flight.
Get a sturdy crate. A USDA-approved crate will be the safest option for your pet, especially if it is riding as cargo. The crate should be big enough for your pet to be able to stand, turn around and lay down in.
Identify the crate. Put the words “live animal” on the outside of the crate for airline personnel to see, and include your name and contact information as well so that you can be reached if necessary.
Tell every airline employee you cross that you are traveling with your pet. They can assist in the event of plane delays and be ready if any additional considerations are necessary.