Travel Tips for Pet Owners

For the 70% of Americans that are pet owners, traveling with (or without) your best friend can be somewhat of a hassle.  Below are tips to make traveling with (or without) your pet an easy, hassle free process.

Hotels:
Find a petfriendly hotel anywhere!  Orbitz makes it easy to find a great place to stay for you and your pet.  Plus, make your reservation after clicking an Orbitz link on this page and MHS will receive a portion of the proceeds! Orbitz Hotel Tab

Airlines:
Traveling with a pet by air requires special accomodation on behalf of the airline you are flying.  Each airline has different standards, regulations and options for travelers with pets.  Details on individual airline pet policies can be found on each airline's website.  Make sure you mention you would like to travel with your pet at the time you make your reservation.  Some air travel tips:

  • Advanced arrangement is required.  A limited number of animals is allowed on each flight.
  • A one-way transport fee is normal.
  • Crates must meet certain standards for size, strength, vetilation, and handling.
  • Baggage compartment may be off-limits for traveling pets during winter or summer months.
  • Health certificate obtained within 10 days of travel time from a licensed veterinarian is usually required.
  • Each airline has different fees and rules regarding which pets that can travel, where they can travel and how they can travel.  Be sure to ask your reservation agent about the details.
  • Avoid taking connecting flights and holiday traffic.

Car travel:
The most important thing to remember when traveling with your pet by car is “safety first.” 

Cats should always travel safely inside a cat carrier.  Most cats feel safer in an enclosed carrier than wandering around inside the car. 

Dogs should also be confined to a crate/kennel or seat belted (with an appropriate doggy seatbelt) in place. 

Dogs and cats not properly confined can end up in our laps impeding our ability to see and steer; at our feet affecting the brake/accelerator pedals; or if an accident occurs they could literally be launched through a windshield.  Keep them safe, keep them confined.

Emergencies on the road:
> Veterinary Emergency & Critical Care Society (VECCS)
> American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) Search
> ASPCA National Animal Poison Control Center

Camping with your pet:
Camping is not recommended for cats.  Dog owners can find camping with your pet an extremely rewarding experience. Search for campgrounds that allow pets.

Bond Promo: Save 50% hotels - Exp 11/16/08 (125x125)

Family Vacations- General (125x125)

Camping World

Camp Bow Wow
Pet Day Care & Boarding

 



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