Travel Precautions for Pets

Tips for a Safe Trip

While in the car, dogs and cats should ride in a crate or carrier. These precautions help protect the driver from distraction and also protect your pet during sudden stops and turns, or in the event of an accident.

It is critical that pets are never left unattended inside the car, even for a short amount of time. Temperatures can rise or drop to dangerous levels inside a locked car in a matter of minutes.

No Funny Tummies

Riding with a carsick pet is no fun for anyone. If your pet isn’t used to taking car rides, try these simple steps:

• Go through a few practice runs in the car, gradually increasing the distance each time.
• Since stressed animals can be prone to motion sickness, feed your pet only a small meal two to three hours before your trip.
• Talk to your veterinarian about remedies and plan a course of action that will help calm your pet and soothe his upset tummy.
• Don’t forget to put a few towels and other clean-up items in the car when you pack.

Relax, You’ve Made It!

Once you arrive at your destination, allow your pet to examine and explore the new surroundings, and remain with him until he settles in and feels more at ease. If you’re staying in a hotel and have to leave your pet alone in the room, be sure to hang the “Do Not Disturb” sign on your door and then call the housekeeping office to confirm that no one should enter.