Veterinarian Danielle Spencer offers tips for driving or flying with a pet.
- Never leave a pet in the vehicle with the windows rolled up.
- Prepare your pet for a long trip in advance of the departure date by taking it on short trips, so he will adapt to his surroundings.
- Always consult your vet, if the pet has not experienced long distance travel or if you are going to an extreme climate.
- Remove food and water from your pet at least two hours before your departure, so they won't get an upset stomach.
- If possible, put your pet in a pet carrier for the trip.
- Be sure that you have the following in your vehicle for the trip--waste bags, towels, a litter pan for cats, toys, treats and a first aid kit.
- With dogs especially, stop every two to four hours for water and exercise.
- Give your animal purified or distilled water to avoid an upset stomach.
- For long trips, check hotels and motels in advance to make sure that your type of pet is welcome.
Tips for air travel with a dog or cat:
- If traveling out of state or internationally, you need a heath certificate for your pet from your vet.
- When making your reservations, make one for your pet, too.
- If you want the pet to travel in the cabin, he has to be small enough to fit in a container that will fit under the seat. Only one pet is allowed in the cabin per flight.
- When you purchase the pet carrier, make sure that it is airline approved.
- Avoid connecting flights for plane travel, if possible.
- Make sure that your pet is wearing an ID tag and that there is one on the carrier, both should give his name, address and phone number. The carrier's tag should also include a brief description of the pet.
- If he's in the cargo section of the plane, write "live animal" on the carrier. Attach a package of food and water to the carrier for long trips with specific feeding instructions.
- The cost per pet to fly on an airplane is approximately $50.
