News & Information

 As we approach the holidays and a high travel season, ensure you’ve
 considered all your travel options carefully.  This allows for both you and
 your pet to be at peace with your decision. 
 
 If you’re a pet owner planning a business trip or vacation, the decision
 to take your pet along or leave him behind is an important one for both you
 and your companion. While it may be tempting to take your furry friend with
 you, keep in mind that some animals are not suited for travel because of
 temperament, illness, or physical impairment. If you have any doubts about
 whether it is appropriate for your pet to travel, talk to your
 veterinarian. 
 If you determine it is best for your pet to accompany you, you will need
 to devote extra time to prepare for the journey. For example, you’ll need
 to have all of the supplies necessary to keep your pet comfortable while
 he’s away from home, and you’ll need to familiarize yourself with any
 pet-related restrictions or requirements imposed by airlines, destination
 countries or states, hotels, etc.
 
 If you decide that your pet should not travel, consider the alternatives:
 Have a responsible friend or relative look after your pet, board your
 animal at a kennel, or hire a pet sitter.
 
 If a friend or relative is going to take care of your pet, ask if that
 person can take your animal into his or her home or even stay in yours.  Animals can get lonely
 when left alone. Be sure that your pet is comfortable with the temporary
 caretaker and his or her home, not to mention any pets that person has.
 
 If you choose to board your pet, get references and inspect the kennel by doing a full tour and see if your pet can go with you to meet the staff.  Your veterinarian, trainer or local shelter can help you select a facility.
 
 
 If you are hiring a pet sitter, interview the candidates and check their
 references. (A pet sitter may be preferable if your pet is timid or elderly
 and needs the comfort of familiar surroundings during your absence.)
 
 Whatever option you choose, your pet should be up-to-date on all
 vaccinations and in sound health. If you arrange for someone to care for
 your pet while you are away, provide the caretaker with the telephone
 number where you can be reached, the name and telephone number of your
 veterinarian, and your pet’s medical or dietary needs. You should also make
 sure that your pet is comfortable with the person you have chosen.
 
 Preparing Your Pet’s Travel Supplies 

  Travel carriers
 
 Travel carriers are useful when your pet is traveling by car; they are
 mandatory when your pet is traveling by air. Your pet’s carrier should be
 durable and smooth-edged with opaque sides, a grille door, and several
 ventilation holes on each of the four sides. Choose a carrier with a secure
 door and door latch. If you are traveling by air, your carrier should have
 food and water dishes. Pet carriers may be purchased from pet-supply stores
 or bought directly from domestic airlines. Select a carrier that has enough
 room to permit your animal to sit and lie down but is not large enough to
 allow your pet to be tossed about during travel. You can make the carrier
 more comfortable by lining the interior with shredded newspaper or a towel.
 
 It is wise to acclimate your pet to the carrier in the months or weeks
 preceding your trip. Permit your pet to explore the carrier. Place your
 pet’s food dish inside the carrier and confine him or her to the carrier
 for brief periods.
 
 To introduce your pet to car travel in the carrier, confine him or her in
 the carrier and take short drives around the neighborhood. If properly
 introduced to car travel, most dogs and cats will quickly adjust to and
 even enjoy car trips.
 
 Careful Preparation is the Key
 
 When packing, don’t forget your pet’s food, food and water dishes,
 bedding, litter and litter box, leash, collar and tags, grooming supplies,
 and a first-aid kit and any necessary medications. Always have a container
 of drinking water with you.
 
 Your pet should wear a sturdy collar with ID tags throughout the trip. The
 tags should have both your permanent address and telephone number and an
 address and telephone number where you or a contact can be reached during
 your travels.
 
 Traveling can be upsetting to your pet’s stomach. Take along ice cubes,
 which are easier on your pet than large amounts of water. You should keep
 feeding to a minimum during travel. (Provide a light meal for your pet two
 to three hours before you leave, if you are traveling by car, or four to
 six hours before departure if traveling by air.) Allow small amounts of
 water periodically in the hours before the trip.
 
 Carry a current photograph of your pet with you. If your pet is lost
 during a trip, a photograph will make it easier for others (airline
 employees, the police, shelter workers, and others) to help you find your
 pet.

Taking a little time planning and preparing before your trip can make a big difference in both you and your pets comfort, safety, and peace of mind later.