Top 5 Pet Travel Tips

Smart Solutions for Pet Owners on the Move

Whether you’re traveling for the holidays or purely for a much-needed vacation, you may be one of the 29.1 million Americans who hit the road with your pet.

According to PetRelocation.com, an international pet travel and transportation industry service provider, most pet owners travel at least once a year with their pets. TripIt, a popular travel organizing app, recently revealed that 77% of users surveyed indicated their travel plans would be influenced by their pets. According to a survey by the American Pet Products Association 37%of pet owners take their animals on the road, up from 19%about 10 years ago.

So, how can you and your pet have a stress-free journey? Here are the top five tips on maintaining creature comforts while in transit.

1. Pet Identification

You don’t leave home without a proper ID, and neither should your pet. Make sure your pet wears a collar with current identification, including multiple phone numbers. Also ensure that your pet is microchipped and that their microchip registration is current. Many pets escape without their collars and tags, and if they are far from home, a microchip may be their only chance of getting home.

2. Pet Photo and Vaccination Records

Pack a recent photo of your pet along with current vaccination records. If you and your pet become separated, a photo will help your search efforts. Up-to-date vaccination records and a recent health certificate are required when traveling on any airline, and, in case you want to pamper your pet at a daycare facility or need last-minute boarding, these records will be required. Also, be sure your pets are current on their heartworm pills and flea and tick control, especially if they’re going to a pet-friendly hotel or on an outdoor vacation where these parasites are going to be common.

3. Food-To-Go

Pack enough of your pet’s favorite treats or kibble in case you suffer delays; having these readily available will help maintain your pet’s feeding schedule, reduce anxiety and prevent an upset stomach by not introducing new food.

4. Pet-Friendly Hotels

According to the Travel Industry Association, 29% of those traveling with pets stay at hotels. Book a hotel that has a pet-friendly environment, such as first-floor accommodations so that your pet doesn’t have to ride in an elevator, and one that offers an outdoor area suitable for short walks. Bringing your pet’s favorite blanket or toy to keep in the room can help minimize any anxiety due to unfamiliar surroundings.

5. Air Travel Strategy

If your pet is traveling in the cargo bay, choose early morning or late evening flights to avoid temperature extremes that may affect your pet’s health. If traveling over the holidays, try leaving a day or two before or after the main rush, and use direct flights whenever possible to avoid accidental transfers or delays. Space for small pets in the cabin are limited, so book early. Contact the airline for necessary reservations and to be up-to-date on current regulations.