Pet Travel Tips

If traveling by air with your pet, here are some suggestions for making it a safe and fun journey:

• You will be required to take the pet out of the carrier and walk through the metal detector with them, while the carrier goes through the X-ray machine. If you pet is skittish and has not traveled much, keep a leash on your dog or a harness on your cat as you go through security.
• A few handy things to pack along in your carrier: wet wipes for accidents; a small bowl for water; a small portion of pet food; and some pet treats. If traveling to a cold climate, you may also want to pack a sweater or jacket for your pet.
• If your pet is not an experienced traveler, cover the carrier with a bed sheet if they start getting restless. This has a calming effect on most pets.
• Be sure that your pet has a id tag with current contact information. Add any additional contact information, such as your cell phone number or the number of where you are staying on strip of tape on the back of the tag
• Some airlines may ask to see a copy of your pet's vaccinations to be sure that the pet is current on its shots. It is a good idea to take these records along just in case.
• If you are taking your pet with you in the cabin, be sure that the pet kennel will fit under the seat on any aircraft. An airline-approved, soft sided carrier usually works best if you are taking the pet on-board with you. Airlines frequently substitute equipment, and what may fit on one aircraft may not fit on another. The same holds true for checking a pet as baggage. Some aircraft cannot accommodate extra large kennels. Check the airline's web site for what kennel size can be accommodate, or call their reservations line. The kennel must be an appropriate size for your pet, or the airline may refuse shipment if they feel that the pet may be uncomfortable during transport.
• If you are checking your pet as baggage, it must be in a hard-sided carrier. It is recommended that you use a kennel where the top of the carrier is hard-sided to ensure the safety of your pet during travel and to help prevent escapes. You may also want to secure the door to the kennel with zip ties to prevent escape.
• If you are using public transportation at your destination, be sure to check before you travel if your pet will be allowed on-board
• Many pet friendly hotels have rules on where pets are allowed on the property. They may not be permitted in restaurants or common areas, such as pools. It is a good idea to check ahead to see what their restrictions are, and if any pet fees or deposits apply for cleaning the room after your stay.

Bon Voyage!