You’re planning a getaway for the whole family, so you want to include Rover or Fluffy in the trip as well. After all, your pet is a part of your family; you don’t want to leave him or her behind. But bringing a pet along on a vacation brings up a lot of questions. The logistics of getting from point A to point B may be different with an animal in tow. Pets are not necessarily welcome in all the same places that people are. And what if you experience an emergency involving your pet? How would you handle it? Here is an overview of some of the important things to keep in mind when traveling with your pet.
- Know your pet. Some animals may race to get into the front seat of the car, but other animals hide when the carrier comes out. Before you decide to include your pet in your vacation plans, consider whether your pet is going to want to make the trip. If your cat hisses and hides at the sight of the cat carrier, she may be more comfortable staying home with a pet sitter.
- How will you get there? If you’re planning to travel by air with your pet in the cabin, speak to the airline and find out exactly what you’ll need to bring to make the trip work. For example, the airline may require a specific type of carrier, so be sure that you have it. If you’re traveling by car, make sure that your air conditioning is in good working order. Don’t roll down the window and allow your dog to hang its head out the window, and don’t put your pets in the back of a truck. You may want to use a harness while traveling.
- Pet fees and deposits. Many, if not most, pet-friendly hotels charge a fee or deposit for bringing a pet. Know the difference between the two. Deposits are refundable, fees are not. Make sure to clarify with your hotel or travel agent.
- Emergencies. If your pet gets sick on the road or while you’re at your destination, you can call the American Animal Hospital Association at (800) 883-6301 to find a local veterinarian. If your pet is lost, let the hotel staff know immediately, and check with local businesses and restaurants to see if they’ve seen your pet. You can get a vacation tag for your pet’s collar, which will allow anyone who finds him to contact you directly.
Make sure you pack with your pet in mind. Bring enough food, a container of water, portable food and water bowls, grooming aids, any medications your pet might need, and of course toys and treats. If you plan well, your pet-friendly vacation should be fun for the whole family.
