Travel Tips

General Travel Tips

We have a lot of great information to make your travels as easy and enjoyable as possible.

To get started planning a trip with your pet, we have prepared some general information that you should consider in your trip planning. Please take the time to read through the following basic information that all responsible pet owners should know.

Your Pets Travel Suitability

Do you have a Travelin’ Pet?

• Let’s be honest. Is your pet “roadworthy”? Is she too young, old, sick, or does she like to travel? Not all pets do. If you have a “stay at home”, she will be much happier (and so will you!) leaving her there or with a reliable pet sitter or kennel. (We also have tips and links about reliable pet sitters and kennels!)

Is your pet people friendly, or a “barker”?

• Always consider those you will be around at your destination. Remember, you want the trip to be enjoyable for you as well as your pet. If he isn’t people friendly, it’s probably better to leave him at home or with a pet sitter.

Has you pet been on trips before?

• If not, you should take her on a short overnight or weekend trip first, before venturing out on a long vacation. You both will appreciate it!

Is this the type of trip to take your pet? Will you
have enough time to spend with your pet, along the way and at your destination? Is the destination “pet friendly”?

• Not all destinations or types of vacations are appropriate for pets, if you plan on spending most of you time in public places, such as museums, lecture halls, or on the slopes, it’s probably better to leave him at home. Or make arrangements with your hotel for pet sitting.

If driving, will you have time to stop every couple of
hours to “air” your pet?

• If not , it’s probably better to leave him at home.

Will you want to leave you pet in the room?

• Inquire at your lodging if they allow pets to stay in the room while you are “out and about”, some don’t. You wouldn’t want to leave your pet in the car, especially during the winter or summer.

How about those relatives?

• And of course, if you are visiting relatives or
  friends, ask if they don’t mind a pet visitor. Many people are allergic to certain pets and some people just aren’t pet friendly.

Information From Your Veterinarian

1. Make sure that all vaccinations are up to date and get current health and rabies certificates just prior to your departure. Airlines require these certificates and they are just good to have along whenever you travel with your pet, “just in case”.
2. Your veterinarian may also have a referral for another vet at your destination. Great to have in an emergency!
3. Ask about proper medical treatment
   for your pet if it becomes carsick or restless during the trip.

Pet Safety

1. When traveling by car, no matter how far, ALWAYS use a restraint. A dog “seatbelt” or pet carrier, and make sure that they are secured in the back seat. Did you know that in a 30-mph. collision, occupants of the vehicle can exert a force 20 times that of their body weight! (That includes your pets!)
2. Also, a loose pet in a car can jump out if someone opens the door, quicker than you can grab her!
3. When traveling by public transportation, make sure you have an approved pet carrier, one that your pet can standup, turn around and lie down in comfortably. Also, try to travel during off-hours, when things are not as hectic or crowded, so you and the airline will have more time to spend with your pet so it won’t be as nervous.
4. Make sure your pet is used to the carrier prior to the trip.
5. Put your pet’s name and your name, address and phone numbers, for both your home and destination on the outside of the pet carrier. Legible please! Also, include your cell number and an 800 number if you have one, if not put CALL COLLECT so anyone can reach you in an emergency!
6. Don’t put a leash in the carrier as your pet could get tangled in it.
7. Also try to avoid “stop-over” flights where your pet could be put on the wrong flight. (He gets a vacation in Hawaii, while you get frantic in Florida!)

Look at these product examples:

Kurgo 00044 Skybox Pet Booster Seat

• Keep your dog safe in the car while giving him a clear view outside
• Secure padded seat lets your pet snuggle comfortably
• Holds up to 30 pounds
• Installs quickly and securely in the front seat
• Measures 16 x 9 x 13 inches

You want to give mini-Fido a comfortable and enjoyable ride. Though it may seem like the perfect spot is curled up on your lap, this is not the case. The Kurgo Skybox Booster Seat offers a secure alternative by providing enough elevation for mini-Fido to have a clear view of the road ahead and a comfortable, padded seat to snuggle down on longer trips. A tether on the inside of the seat helps keep mini-Fido restrained and reduces distraction. The best part is they are still within arm’s reach

List Price: $ 59.99 Price: $ 53.99

Solvit Pet Vehicle Safety Harness, Extra-Large

• Heavy-duty straps attach to a fully-padded, fleece-lined safety vest
• FULL METAL connectors are used at all load-bearing points
• Fits pets 60-120 lbs
• Integrates with vehicle's seat belt tensioning device to provide range of motion while traveling, but locks during sudden stops
• Use of a vehicle safety harness improves safety by reducing potential distractions for the driver

The Solvit Pet Vehicle Safety Harness is designed with pets' safety and comfort in mind.

List Price: $ 29.99 Price: $ 18.53

Solvit 62314 Waterproof Hammock Seat Cover for Pets

• Protect your backseat and floor from dirt, dander, and spills
• Made from durable heavy-gauge polyester with waterproof backing
• Ideal for all vehicles with headrests
• Attaches with adjustable straps and 2 Sta-Put devices
• Fully machine-washable

Let your pet ride in style! The Solvit Hammock-Style Bench Seat Cover is our most versatile seat cover.

List Price: $ 39.99 Price: $ 22.63

Stuff To Take With You

1. All required medications and a first aid kit.
2. Identification Tag with name, address and emergency phone number.
3. Photograph and complete description of your pet, just in case you get separated.
4. Water – At least a gallon or two, and start mixing it in equal parts at your destination, so she can get used to it. Distilled water is even better!
5. Food – If you utilize a special brand or a brand that is only available through your veterinarian, bring enough for the entire trip. If you use canned food, don’t forget the can opener and a spoon!
6. Portable food and water bowl set.
7. Extra leash and collar.
8. Toys and chew items.
9. Non messy treats.
10. Brush and/or comb.
11. Lint and hair remover.
12. Baby wipes or moist towelettes for clean paws.
13. Tweezers to remove foreign objects from paws and fur.
14. Waste removal bags.
15. Door Hanger for Hotel/Motel stays.
16. Old towels, cleaner, disinfectant and trash bags in case of accidents.
17. Some of your pet’s bedding so she will feel at home.
18. Old blankets and sheets to cover bedding and furniture at your destination.
19. A flashlight for night time walks.
20. Pet coats and rain gear for inclement weather.
21. For cats: a litter pan, extra liners and newspaper to put under the litter pan.

Do’s & Don’ts

1. Don’t feed or water your pet just before starting out.
2. Do keep fresh water available for your pet at all times.
3. Do stop at regular intervals to give your pet a drink and a short run.
4. Don’t let your pet loose in a strange place.
5. Do always use a harness or carrier while the car is moving.
6. Do always use a leash when walking a dog or cat.
7. Don’t let your pet bother other people.
8. Do keep a low profile with your pet on public transportation.
9. Don’t give your pet sedatives or tranquilizers unless prescribed by your veterinarian.
10. Don’t let your pet hang his head out of the window of a moving car.
11. Don’t let strangers, especially children, near your pet.
12. Do clean up after your pet.
13. Do notify hotel management when leaving your pet alone in the room. (Check us out).
14. Don’t leave your pet in the car, especially in extreme climates. In moderate climates, it is still dangerous. If you have to leave your pet in the car for a short time, leave at least two windows open slightly to provide fresh air, but it is not recommended! Remember, it is dangerous to leave your pet in a hot or cold car, for even a short period of time!