During the holidays, you want everyone you love to be close to you, including your furry family members. But traveling with pets can get a bit tricky. You’ll need to plan ahead to keep your pets safe on the road or in the air. If you’re planning to take a trip this holiday season, these pet travel tips should help!
Tips for Traveling with Pets
- Always make sure that your pet is wearing a collar with an ID tag securely attached. If you’re traveling to another state, it’s a good idea to put their rabies vaccination tag on their collar as well.
- Get your pet a microchip ID before you leave. If they get lost and slip their collar, this is the only way to identify their owner.
- Schedule a checkup to get your pet up-to-date on their vaccinations. This is the best way to prevent contagious diseases.
- If your pet has any serious health concerns, check with your vet to see how travel will affect them. Make sure to refill prescriptions before you go, and pack your pet’s medicine securely in your luggage.
Tips for Air Travel with Pets
- Check your airline’s pet policy well in advance of your flight. Make sure your pet’s carrier meets their requirements, and follow their rules carefully.
- Know where the airport’s pet relief stations are located. Most airports have designated areas both pre- and post-security.
- In case of flight delays, keep any medications your pet needs in your carry-on bag.
Tips for Car Travel with Pets
- Find a crate that fits in your car. Dogs and cats can’t wear seat belts, and if you have to stop suddenly or get into an accident, your pet could get thrown around—or out of—the vehicle. We know it’s tempting to let them sit on your lap, but your pet will be much safer inside a crate or carrier.
- Leash your pet before you let them out of the vehicle, especially at rest stops. The last thing you want is for them to go get lost because they went running after a squirrel.
- Playing calming music can help your pet relax. So can the sound of your voice—singing out loud to your favorite road trip playlist will also put your pet at ease.
- Never leave your pet alone in the car. Winter temperatures can be just as dangerous as summer. In fact, 31 states have laws against leaving your pet unattended in a vehicle. But if you’re traveling solo, this can be tricky. Stick to drive-thru restaurants or bring snacks with you, and keep bathroom breaks as short as possible.
Veterinary Care in Gilbert and Chandler
At Anasazi Animal Clinic, we want to help you keep your pets safe and healthy. If you need to schedule an appointment for vaccinations or you want to get your pet microchipped, please give us a call today. And have a safe and happy holiday season!
Photo by Kit (formerly ConvertKit) on Unsplash used with permission under the Creative Commons license for commercial use 12/13/24.