Whether you are headed up north or across the country, traveling with a pet requires planning to make the journey safe and enjoyable for everyone.
Begin by arranging where you're going to stay.
Teri Krywko, owner of Kimberly Travel in Lake Orion, said there are hotels that welcome pets, but to check ahead of time.
Then, consider your pet during the packing process. Steven Lindner, D.V.M. at Airport Veterinary Hospital in Waterford, said to include a container for water as well as enough water to last until the supply can be refilled. Pack a leash, food, any pet medications and an item from home for the pet, such as a favorite blanket or toy, he said. Also bring vaccination paperwork, especially if you will be traveling out of state, said Lindner.
Next, determine how you will get to your vacation destination.
If by car, make sure you have an appropriate amount of space to accommodate the pet. This means making sure the pet isn't so squeezed in between the luggage that he or she can't stretch out during the ride.
Lindner said pet safety harnesses that work with seat belts are available to protect pets while traveling. He added that cats and dogs who are excitable should be confined to a carrier appropriate for their size during the trip. This can make the journey safer and more comfortable for both the pet and driver.
If your pet is unaccustomed to traveling, go on a couple of test drives to get him familiar with the car, suggested Lindner.
On the road, Lindner said not to let dogs ride with their heads out the window. He said in addition to the danger of the dog falling out of the vehicle, this practice is not healthy on his ears with the wind or his eyes with the possibility of debris getting in.
Remember to stop regularly to let the dog stretch his legs as well. Keep the dog on a leash at all times because you never know what will attract his attention and possibly cause him to dart off, said Lindner.
Cats can wear a harness with a leash, but are generally uncomfortable in unfamiliar places, he said. Instead, Lindner said you can take her out of the carrier and pet her while she sits on your lap in the parked car.
Also, make sure the pet is wearing identification just in case he gets lost.
Lindner recommends feeding dogs lightly while traveling to help with potential car sickness. If you usually feed the pet one large meal, try breaking it down into two or three smaller ones, he said.
If you're traveling by airplane, check with your specific airline for regulations, said Krywko. Many limit the number of animals allowed per flight and there also may be restrictions on the size of the pet and the carrier he will be traveling in, she said. Some airlines will allow smaller pets to be carried on, but there may be additional fees involved, Krywko added. If you have a travel agent, he or she can help you make arrangements for your pet, she said.
If you prefer not to travel with your pet, you can arrange to have a neighbor or relative take care of him or her. Or, hire a pet sitter.
Boarding the pet is another option. Jamie Boertmann, dean of students at Canine Campus in Farmington Hills, said owners can have peace of mind knowing that their pet is safe and well cared for while they are away. At Canine Campus, pet parents are welcome to call and check on their pet or take a look for themselves on the Web cam.
Boertmann said to look for overnight boarding that provides interaction with people as well as plenty of exercise and stimulation for the pet.
