Pet Pointers: Traveling with your pets
A new survey of pet parents found more people are taking their pets along when they travel. Today I'll tell you more about traveling with your pet in this edition of Pet Pointers.
To view our videos, you need to
enable JavaScript. Learn how.
install Adobe Flash 9 or above. Install now.
Then come back here and refresh the page.
Whether you choose to drive or fly a recent survey of six thousand pet parents done by PetRelocation.com shows most families take at least one trip a year with their pets, many taking pets along as often as once a month, 61 percent of those animals being dogs, 38 percent cats.
Finding a pet friendly airline can pose a problem for some. While most airlines will transport your pet in cargo, only cats and dogs, less than twenty pounds, are allowed in the cabin, unless they are a service animal, and must be transported in an approved pet carrier. Having your furry friend come along will also cost you, whether your pet is in the cabin or in cargo, fees start at around $100 each way. Regulations for pet travel can be found on each major carrier's website.
All pet carriers must have a hard leak proof bottom, be clearly marked with your information and should be large enough for your pet to stand up and turn around in. In addition to all the mandatory ticket information, place a large sticker with your home address and contact information on the inside wall, ceiling or floor of your pet carrier, in case of an emergency.
When booking your hotel make sure to ask if pets are allowed. Some hotels welcome pets and go the extra mile to make them comfortable others will ask you to leave and your deposit will not be refunded if you don't tell them you have a pet with you.
If your travel plans are more permanent and you are moving across country or to a new country you might want to consider using a pet relocation company. PetRelocation.com, offers one on one full-service arrangements using pet friendly airlines for domestic and international travel. They also understand the different health, vaccination and quarantine requirements for pets entering different countries and can make the journey much easier.
Before you and your animal companion hit the road or take to the skies make sure their vaccines are current, their flea and tick medication is on and their collar has ID and rabies tags. A pet passport, available at many pet supply store, while not a legal document should contain vaccination records, a photo and your contact information. It could come in handy if your pet wanders off especially in unfamiliar surroundings.
Remember to bring their leash and a few treats especially when traveling by air. Some airports now have green areas designated for pets to lounge in between connections.
PetRelocation.com.