For pet owners, planning a vacation can be quite difficult, whether you’re leaving them at home or traveling together. Traveling with pets is a challenge because you need to book pet-friendly transport and accommodation, as well as keep track of different rules and regulations. However, more than two million pets and other animals travel by air in the US each year, so it’s certainly not impossible. [1] Still, before hitting the road with your cat or dog, it’s important that you are prepared. Here’s what you need to know.
Your Pet Should Have Some Form of ID
Losing your pet while traveling is among the biggest fears owners have. However, you can reduce the risk by making sure your dog or cat has at least some kind of ID on them at all times.
A collar and ID are a great start, but they can also get damaged or slip off. That’s why we suggest that you microchip your pet. According to HomeAgain, [2] a company specializing in microchips for pets, between 6 and 8 million pets enter shelters in the US every year, and many of them have an owner. Unfortunately, 90% of pets without an ID are never returned. Micro chipping is quick and easy and lasts for decades while carrying important identifying information.
Bring the Right Paperwork with You
When traveling abroad you will have to bring evidence of your pet’s identity, license, and proof that they’re healthy. Otherwise, you might not be able to enter a particular country. We recommend that you gather all the necessary paperwork and have it always at hand. Different countries might require different paperwork or have different procedures, so it’s best to look up specific regulations for the places you’ll be visiting.
Find out About Breed Restrictions
Sometimes it’s not enough to just find a pet-friendly hotel. You may learn too late that they have specific restrictions relating to different breeds and sizes of dogs that exclude your pet from staying with them. The same goes for airlines which often have rules that prevent you from transporting pit bulls for safety reasons or snub-nosed dogs because they might have trouble breathing.
Book and Confirm Pet-Friendly Accommodation
Thinking you’ve got a hotel booked only to be turned down because of your pet can wreak havoc on your vacation plans. For that reason, do your research and make sure you’re booking accommodation that is pet-friendly. The best way to do this is by going online, but don’t forget to call and confirm because hotel and resort policies can change often.
Buy the Right Pet Gear
Besides making sure you’re allowed to bring your pet, you should also make them as comfortable as possible during transport. Moreover, it might be wise to put all their belongings and paperwork into a separate bag. Also, consider packing the following things:
– A comfy portable bed
– Bottled water and travel bowl
– A harness and leash
– A couple of waste bags
– A few toys
Research Everything You Need for a Vacation with Your Pet
While traveling with your pet might seem stressful at first, if you are thorough in your research, you can plan ahead so that both of you end up enjoying your vacation.
[1] https://www.transportation.gov/airconsumer/plane-talk-traveling-animals
[2] https://www.homeagain.com/static/images/press/HomeAgain-FactSheet.pdf