To travel with a pet, it’s essential to know the basics. Knowing what you should and should not do avoids accidents and guarantees safe pet transport.
The first step is to get a pet ID or a microchip. Microchips are programmed with an ID number that is injected beneath your pet’s skin. Should he get lost, it will be easier to identify you as the pet’s owner. In a 2009 study, microchipped dogs are more likely to be reunited with their owners than those without microchips.
Air Travel Tips for Pets
When you decide to fly with your pet, find out if it’s possible for them to stay in the cabin with you. Check with the airline if this is allowed. You may also contact a pet relocation service for hassle-free and safe pet transport.
Some tips:
1. There are dangers of flying your pet in a cargo hold. Extremely hot or cold temperatures and poor ventilation are not good environments for them. Should they be put in cargo, book only direct flights and always notify the captain and flight attendant that you have a pet in the cargo hold.
2. Train your pets to sleep in their crate for several hours. You can do this by putting them in a carrier at home and letting them stay in it for a few hours.
3. Pack all the necessities for your dogs such as food, water and medical records.
4. There is no need to check in early if you have pets with you. As much as possible, give them as much time outside their crate before a long flight, so they don’t have to wait longer.
5. Do your research for airlines as they have different rules when traveling with pets. On some airlines, only pets that can fit in a carrier under the seat may be allowed. There are also airlines that do not allow pets in a cabin but only on cargo.
6. Put your pet’s comfort first when traveling by plane. Consult a veterinarian before traveling and do not use tranquilizers as they could harm them.
7. When you arrive at your destination, take time to examine your pet. If you feel something is wrong, do not hesitate to take him to a vet for a check-up.
8. Purchase a USDA-approved crate for your dog. He should be able to comfortably sit and stand inside the crate. Make sure it has proper identification.
9. Always stay on schedule. Avoid overfeeding them before a long flight. Light meals a few hours before the flight are ideal.
Traveling With Pets by Car
The safest way to travel with your pets by car is to secure them in a crate. It’s safer both for the pets and the passengers when they stay put so they do not roam around the car and distract the driver. If possible, bring a friend or family member with you when traveling with your pets so you someone who can do pet care duties.
Below are helpful tips:
1. If you are traveling long distances, consider taking several short trips to prepare your pets for a long trip. Gradually increase the length of the trip to get them accustomed to long travel.
2. Never leave them alone in the car. A quick stop may not be an issue to you but that’s too long for pets. Heat is a serious hazard for pets; they could suffer from irreversible organ damage and in some cases, even death.
3. Take several rest stops for your pets, to allow them to exercise. But never permit your pets to leave the car without ID tags, a leash and a collar. Make sure it has your address and cellphone number. For long-distance travel, include a phone number of your destination, just in case they get lost. For collars, opt for a flat and not a choke collar. Better yet, go with the microchip.
4. Always pack a travel kit for them whenever you travel either by plane, ship or car. Bring food, medications and water. Include their health records and recent immunizations. Waste bags and a scoop are also needed for cleaning up. You may also pack some toys to keep them entertained.
If you are traveling across the state, make sure that you have your pet’s health certificate with you for proof of rabies vaccination.
5. Make sure that your pets do not stick their heads out the window of your car or they could get injured by debris or they could be sick with the cold air. Most importantly, never put your pets at the back of an open pickup car.
6. Pet cats should be put in carriers. It’s also important that these carriers are secured by a seat belt so it doesn’t bounce and hurt your cat.
7. Focus only on your driving. This is why you should restrain your pets the entire travel. Put them in the backseat as airbags aren’t for pets.
8. Light meals are ideal for your pets at least three or four hours before traveling. Should you feed them during your travel, make sure to always stop. Never feed them in a moving vehicle to avoid pet car sickness.
You can also utilize pet relocations services to provide a safe and comfortable travel experience for your pets. Blue Collar Pet Transport specializes in helping pet owners with safe travel for pets.
Contact Blue Collar Pet Transport
When traveling with pets, choose the most comfortable and safest way for them. Get in touch with us so we can assist you with moving your pets from one location to another. Our pet transport services include a Shared Ride, Air Pet Transport, Private Pet and Private Jet Pet Transport. Call Blue Collar Pet Transport today!