Heading out on vacation?  Or maybe traveling with your pet for the holidays?

Make sure you pack a bag for the pooch!
This makes it so much easier to find things in a pinch.

And most important, be sure to pack enough water for both you and your friend. The Traveltainer is great for both keeping and providing water for your pet with an easy to use cap.

Get a pet travel bag to easily store all of your pets belongings.  Or if you’re the crafty type, create one yourself.

Make driving safe for everyone…

Little dogs will usually grab a lap to look out the window. But that can be very difficult and very unsafe while driving, for both you and your dog.

Let your small dog enjoy a window view, while keeping safety in mind.

Small dog booster seats are great for traveling!
This will keep your little one safely in one spot.

Traveling with a big dog is great, they love adventures!
But remember big dogs need safety too.

I know with my two big boys it can get difficult with them jumping over each other and side to side.

If something should happen or even coming to an immediate stop, dogs can be thrown.

These days  it’s so easy to keep your pet safe  as more pet travel accessories have become available to pet lovers.

For a dog, a harness is definitely the way to go!

I was told years ago by a veterinarian to use a harness as we take our boy on many adventures.

Easier to handle.
Easy on the neck. (Especially for dogs that pull).
In the event of emergency you have a good grip on the body not just the neck so they can’t easily flip around.

It has been the best advice given to me for traveling with my two big boys.

A harness can easily be buckled into a car seat belt with adjustable belts.
An adjustable belt easily attaches to the harness, and buckles into the seat belt buckle of your car.
A very inexpensive product, to help prevent injury in case of an incident, or heavy breaking.

Know how to prepare for your next road trip.  It’s always better to be ready for anything.

 

Traveling with a cat?

This may sound strange, and most cats might hiss and spit  at the idea.

But with much training, some say certain breeds can adapt to traveling better than others.

So if this sounds like your cat, you might want to  invest in a portable litter box.

Or  a cat carrier that comes with a litter box.

Nevertheless always talk to your vet to find the safest, most practical way to travel, when it comes to cats.

If your travels are taking you by plane….
Be sure to check with your airline ahead of time.

Not all carriers are accepted.
Not all dogs and cats are accepted.
They are now breed specific.

Each airline has it’s own pet policy…

And don’t forget Health Certificates if you’re leaving the country!

Health certificates for flying with your pet can sure be scary!
But not if you’re patient and do it right.

Check with your veterinarian and let them know when, where, and how long your travel will be, so that they may guide you with preparing your pet.

Take the time to list all of  your questions before arriving to your scheduled appointment.  This will make the preparation easier for both you and your veterinarian.

Remember, your veterinarian will be the one to answer questions regarding your pets safety, anxiety, and above all…health.

Contact USDA for the right paperwork to travel.  They have a very user friendly site for all paperwork and questions regarding pet travel.

Never plan last minute!

Traveling out of the country, and avoiding quarantine is easy as long as you follow the guidelines and set your travel dates around veterinary appointments.  Scheduled testing, vaccines, and parasite control can all be time sensitive.

If you’re going overseas try preparing 7-8 months ahead of time.
As there can be many rules and precautions to follow.

Australia has strict rules for entering, and if unapproved your pet could end up in quarantine for up to six months.

Rules can be so frustrating, but understand they do keep everyone safe from disease.

I have always found the staff at USDA to be very helpful.

Make sure you have a planned pet friendly hotel stay BEFORE you arrive at your destination.

If possible book a room on the ground level.  This will make things easier for dog walking.  Keep in mind that anxious dogs may need more potty breaks.  Allow your dog to be familiar with your bags and any toys you may have brought to create a more comfortable stay.  New surroundings can be somewhat stressful, so leaving your pet unattended immediately after arrival is not a good idea.

Know where there is help if needed in case of emergency by using your Fidomingle App.  This will give a quick list of veterinarians in the area by zip code, or check with your hotel front desk upon arrival.

Always remember to contact hotels and business’ ahead of time as sometimes rules change, or information hasn’t yet been updated.  And PLEASE pick up after your pet, so that we may always have these pet friendly places to welcome us during our travels.

Travel safely!
Happy Holidays! ❤