Do you have any late-summer trip plans? Perhaps you’re traveling to a private lodge or to meet your family at the beach. Many of our animal friends enjoy going to new areas with their people. Others would rather stay at home. Of course, you may need to travel with your pet for reasons other than vacations, such as relocation. Continue reading for recommendations from a local Ashland WI veterinarian on traveling with Fido and Fluffy.

Flying With Pets

Flying can be quite stressful for pets.  We normally advise against it unless absolutely necessary. If you have to fly with your pet, take your time and do your research before booking.

People frequently wonder about the laws for flying with dogs. The TSA has some standard rules for getting pets through security. Animals must be leashed or in carriers, though you may need to remove the leash and carry your pet through the metal detector. The carriers will also be inspected.

Service animals, of course, are always permitted on flights, according to federal law.

Aside from that, each airline is different. Southwest, Alaska, United, American, Delta, Hawaiian, Spirit, and Frontier are among the airlines that allow pets to travel in-cabin (or have before). However, you should check with the airline itself. They may also differ depending on factors such as weight limits and whether or not you are permitted to purchase a seat for your pet.

What To Consider Before Booking A Flight For Your Pet

If you’re flying with Fido or Fluffy, try to book a direct trip if possible. A three-hour straight flight will be gentler on your animal companion than a 14-hour excursion with layovers. With longer trips, Fido and Fluffy will experience increased stress as the day/flight progresses.

If your pet is small enough for passage in the cabin, that’s excellent. Larger pets may need to travel in the luggage section. Think twice before booking this way because this can be stressful and uncomfortable. Not only are the storage areas very loud, but they do not have the same climate control as the cabin. If there are any delays, your pet may be stuck in his kennel for a while.

That does not mean that pets cannot travel safely on planes. Simply be diligent. Check out each airline and read reviews from people who have traveled with animals.

You’ll also want to consult your vet. You might need travel certificates. Your pet may also require further vaccinations or parasite preventatives. Of course, the specific possibilities will vary depending on where you’re traveling.

Some other things to consider: 

• It may also be beneficial to give your pet anti-anxiety medication or a sedative before traveling. If you do, follow the directions exactly.
• You might also wish to read up on local risks. Every habitat has a unique flora and fauna, some of which may be dangerous.
• Next, make sure your pet is microchipped and wearing ID tags. You may want to add a local number to the tags. For instance, if you’re staying with a cousin for a few weeks, you can get new tags made up that include their number.
• GPS tags aren’t a terrible idea. Consider your options before making a purchase, and read reviews.
• Make sure that your contact information is on the carrier. You can use baggage tags for this, or you can cover a mailing label with clear tape.

Ask your Ashland WI vet for more information. 

Driving with Pets

Car rides are far gentler for Fido and Fluffy than airplanes. Of course, some of the same rules apply.

How Can I Keep My Pet Comfortable on Car Rides?

Getting an excellent crate is a good start, but it’s not the only thing to consider. Here are a few pointers on making a car ride easy on pets:

• Make sure the cabin is comfortable. If you’re driving in the summer or winter, start the car and adjust the climate control before taking your pet out.
• You should also ensure that your pet has plenty of fresh air. Crack a window and/or activate the a/c.
• With dogs, make sure to take regular breaks to allow Fido to stretch his legs and relieve himself. This is an excellent opportunity to use a park or trail locator app and find some new spots to check out with your furry pal.
• Some pets, like humans, are prone to vehicle sickness. If your furry friend tends to get sick on the road, consider desensitizing them by taking them for local drives. Start with short ones, then increase the distance. Your veterinarian may also be able to prescribe medications.

Do I Need To Crate My Pet For Car Travel?

By law, pets must be in a crate or carrier on planes. This isn’t generally regulated for car rides, but it’s still your best bet. We know, some dogs like to look out windows, but it is quite unsafe for Fido to ride with his head out the window. Bugs, gravel, dust, or even lighted cigarettes could possibly all end up in your dog’s face. Furthermore, if you had to stop abruptly—or worse, had an accident—he would be in grave danger of being hurt. There’s also a chance that your pet could step on a window control and roll the window up (choking hazard) or down (escape risk).

You’ll want to make the crate cozy for your pet. Include some bedding and a few comfort items.

Of course, the process of making your pet at ease in their crate should begin well before the actual travel. Ideally, this ought to start when your furry friend is still very young.

Your pet should see their crate as a comfortable den rather than a jail cell. You want your furry pal to have positive associations with it. Start by offering them toys and treats in their crate and feeding them first near and then in it. From there, you’ll move to closing the door and gradually increasing the amount of time your pet spends in the crate.

You could also consider using netting and seat belts during car rides. Just exercise caution with these sorts of products. They do prevent your pet from moving around the cabin but may provide little—if any—protection in the event of an accident. Read reviews and consult your Ashland WI veterinarian for advice.

Packing for Pets

Do not forget to bring a travel bag! You should include food, treats, a few toys, towels, bedding, a spare leash and collar, a tie-line, and a pet first aid kit. It’s also important to bring your animal companion’s documents. (Tip: upload them to a cloud drive so you can access them from anywhere.) If you’re unsure whether your pet’s food will be available at your location, consider shipping some to yourself.

Exploring on Vacation

What happens when you get to your destination? Hopefully, this goes without saying, but you should always keep your dog leashed or in fenced areas.

When you get to your destination, take Fido for a walk and allow him to explore. This is an excellent approach for you and your pet to acquire a feel for your surroundings while also spending time together!

Book An Appointment At Our Ashland WI Pet Clinic

Does your pet require a travel certificate? Please do not hesitate to contact us for any of your pet’s veterinary requirements. As your Ashland WI pet hospital, we’re here to help!