Whether you are traveling domestically or in a different country, it’s important to know best practices when traveling with your beloved pets. There are some challenges including increased fees plus additional restrictions when traveling to different states and countries. When traveling during the summer months, it’s important to know that airlines limit pets in cargo due to the hot weather. Due to a rise in fake rabies documents, more countries have now implemented even tighter restrictions. On the bright side, there are ways to bring your fur babies along so all can enjoy the adventure. So what do you need to know?
- Fees– half of all US hotels allow pets, with many of them charging fees that range from $50-$100 a night. You always want to make sure that your pet is added to the reservation to avoid complications at check-in.
- Rules– A lot of hotels are charging higher cleaning fees per pet and require size limits per dog per room. In some cases, pets cannot be left unattended, even if they are in a crate.
- Pet Programs– Luckily, there are programs at participating hotels that work to accommodate our four-legged friends. For instance, Kimpton Hotels has partnered with Wag! to offer pet sitting services to guests while you are out and about.
- Pet Travel Essentials– one of the most important things for your pet is to have ALL the essentials so the trip is safe and comfortable for them. Items to bring are:
- Documents– Vaccine records and health certificates are a must as most countries and states have strict requirements. Before traveling, ask your vet if additional vaccinations are needed based on your destination.
- Food– always bring enough for each day and extra in case of delays. (Another tip: if flying, don’t overfeed your pet the morning of travel to reduce sickness.)
- Emergency Contacts– have phone numbers for an emergency clinic and a reputable vet near your destination readily available in case of emergencies.
- Dishes
- Leashes
- Collars
- Litter pans
- Bags
- Treats
- Toys
- Medication- it’s a good idea to treat your pet for fleas and ticks before travel.
- Blankets
- Pet Insurance- Whether you have pet insurance or not, it’s always a safe bet to acquire it before traveling. Some travel insurance covers pet related expenses such as paying for a kennel in the event of flight delays.
- Microchip- If your pet hasn’t been microchipped, I highly recommend it. It’s bad enough to lose your pet near home, but to be in unfamiliar territory makes it even worse. If your pet is found, all they do is scan your pet and your contact information comes up. It is also a requirement in some states and countries.
- Car Rides- when traveling on the road, it’s best to get your pet accustomed to being in a car. Prior to your trip, take them out daily such as taking the kids to school, driving to a dog park, etc.; doing this every day will get them acclimated and will alleviate their stress of being in the car for a long period of time. Some other pointers are always having them in a harness or a crate and mapping out pit stops every few hours on the road so they can stretch, potty and run around.
- Routine- at home or away, pets are best if they stick to routine; feed at the same time, going out at the same time, etc. This will help them adjust to a new environment and prevent them from sickness due to stress.
At the end of the day, you must ask yourself if it is worth taking your pet on vacation with you. Traveling with a pet isn’t always the best option and your pet’s personality plays a big factor too. If you are going to travel with a pet, it does require more planning than a regular trip. The best option is to find a destination that involves the outdoors, but if that doesn’t work, make sure that where you stay covers more of your pet’s needs than your own so they are comfortable. It will eliminate the unnecessary stress for them and give you peace of mind.