Guide to Holiday Travel With Pets
The holiday season is synonymous with travel, and for pet owners, the idea of leaving their furry friends behind can be heartbreaking. Whether you're taking a holiday vacation or visiting family, bringing your pet along can enhance the joy of your trip. However, traveling with pets requires careful planning to ensure their safety and well-being.
Pet Identification
Use pet ID tags with your cell phone number, and consider a second tag with your destination's contact information.
There are now tags with QR codes that will give you GPS location if your pet’s tag is scanned (ByteTag, Ring Pet Tag)
Enhance safety with a pet microchip.
If you have a runner, consider getting a GPS tracker or AirTag for additional security. (if you will be staying in a more rural area, AirTags may not pick up well and a GPS tracker will be a better option)
Plan Ahead
Book airline reservations and pet-friendly accommodations in advance to avoid last-minute hassles.
Airlines limit the number of pets per flight, so secure your spot early.
You may need a health certificate if you are traveling internationally or across state lines.
Get a Good Pet Crate or Carrier
Use a crate or carrier in the car to ensure your pet's safety and minimize distractions while driving.
For air travel, you need a USDA-approved shipping crate.
Don't Leave Your Pet Alone - Avoid leaving your pet alone in the car, especially in hot climates where temperatures can rise rapidly.
Pack for your pet.
Pack a supply of your pet's food and carry water in portable bowls for the journey.
Don’t forget to pack your pet’s medications (enough for the trip and some extra as a precaution).
Don’t forget poo bags for dogs!
Know Your Hotel's Pet Policy - If you are staying in a hotel or other rental property, call ahead to confirm pet policies and make reservations at pet-friendly accommodations.
Know Your Airline's Pet Policy - Understand the airline's regulations for pet travel and comply with necessary health requirements.
Learn About Your Destination - Research pet services, locate nearby veterinarians, and be aware of any special requirements for international travel.
Keep It Normal - Stick to your pet's regular schedule for feeding and walks to maintain a sense of normalcy.
Keep Calm - Use natural pet calmers instead of medical tranquilizers to reduce anxiety during travel.
Be Considerate - Respect others by restraining your pet when necessary, as not everyone may be comfortable around animals.
Additional Tips for Air Travel:
For air travel, book direct flights to minimize stress and potential mishandling.
Schedule a pre-trip checkup with your vet, ensure up-to-date vaccinations, get medication refills, and obtain a health certificate if required.
Use a USDA-approved shipping crate with proper identification, including contact information and a photo of your pet. The crate should be large enough for your pet to stand, sit, and turn around comfortably and lined with some bedding—shredded paper or towels—to absorb accidents. Before your trip, tape a small pouch of dried food outside the crate so airline personnel can feed your pet in case they get hungry during a layover. The night before you leave, freeze a small dish or tray of water for your pet. This way, it can’t spill during loading and will melt by the time they are thirsty. Ensure the crate door is securely closed but not locked so that airline personnel can open it in an emergency.
Inform airline staff about your traveling pet and insist on checks if delays or concerns arise.
Not all airlines allow cats to travel in the plane's cabin, so checking with your airline is essential. Also, note the carrier size measurements to ensure their carrier fits under the seat. When going through the security checkpoint, you’ll need to carry your cat through, so it’s a good idea to have your cat on a harness and leash to keep them secure.
Additional Tips for Road Trips:
Prepare your pet for long drives with short trips, gradually increasing travel time.
Secure your pet in a well-ventilated crate or carrier, or use a harness attached to a seat buckle.
Pack a pet-friendly travel kit with food, water, grooming supplies, and medication.
Never leave your pet alone in a parked vehicle, especially in extreme weather conditions.
With proper preparation and consideration, holiday travel with your pet can be a memorable and enjoyable experience. From ensuring proper identification to understanding airline and hotel policies, these tips will help pet owners navigate the challenges of holiday travel, ensuring the safety and well-being of their furry companions. Whether it's a road trip or air travel, your pet can be a delightful travel companion during the holiday season.
More tips are available from ASPCA, Travel Channel, and Best Friends
