Travel Tips for You & Your Pet

With summer almost here, it’s time to start finalizing your vacation plans. Here are some things to consider when traveling with your pet as well as some tips on what to do if you plan on leaving him at home.

Taking a Road Trip with Your Pet

1. Your pet should always wear an identification tag for easy identification in case he gets lost. You should also carry a picture of your pet so you are able to make flyers in case he gets lost. For help, call the Pet Loss Support Hotline 530-752- 4200.
   
   
2. Carry a pet first aid kit for emergencies and have your veterinarian’s and an emergency hospital phone number with you.
   
   
3. Always have a collar and leash with you.
   
   
4. Have some extra water and food (don’t forget your pet’s bowls) in case of a delayed return home. Have some cookies and bones too!
   
   
5. Bring a crate along for overnight stays at a hotel. You may want to call ahead to make reservations – not every hotel allows pets in the room. 
   
   
6. Always park in the shade and leave the windows open in summer. A pet can overheat easily in a closed up car, so take extra caution in hot weather. In winter, make sure your pet is covered with a blanket to stay warm.
   
   
7. Stop every two to three hours for your pet to go to the bathroom and to get some exercise.

Boarding Tips

1. Always plan well ahead of time – boarding facilities, especially good ones, book up fast. So make reservations at a kennel early enough before your vacation starts.
   
   
2. Ask if you are able to bring your dog’s own food, treats, bed and some toys. Most kennels have restrictions on these items.
    
   
3. Make a list of your pet’s problems/ailments and make sure the boarding facility is aware of any allergies or sensitivities. Don’t forget to give the caretaker instructions on any medications or supplements your pet is taking. Be sure to ask ahead; not all kennels will take pets on medications. Leave a phone number where you can be reached at any time, as well as your veterinarian’s name and number too, in case of an emergency.
   
   
4. Ask if daily walks or playgroups (if your dog gets along with other dogs) can be arranged so your pet will get some exercise while you are gone.
   
   
5. Have a back up plan in case you are not able to board you pet or if your pet should develop separation anxiety while you are gone.

Flying with Your Pet

1. Rules and regulations vary between airlines and you should call ahead of time to find out the details. Most airlines require a health certificate. You should inquire about the time frame since most airlines won’t accept a health certificate that is older than 10 days. 
   
   
2. Your pet will always have to be in a carrier. If your pet is too big to fit under the front seat in a Sherpa bag, you will need a Vari Kennel for your pet’s comfort and safety. Have the measurements of the Vari Kennel handy when you call the airline; they will ask you about the height, width and length of the crate for storage.
   
   
3. Put a comfortable pad inside the crate and send a water dish and some food outside the crate with your pet in case of delays.
   
   
4. Your pet will not be able to travel by air if temperatures are over 85 F or under 45 F. Ask about these regulations and be aware of the possibility of a delayed departure.
   
   
5. Ask your veterinarian if your pet should have a tranquilizer/sedative while traveling.

Below are phone numbers for some of the airlines. You may want to ask them how many pets are allowed on each flight as well as restriction and fare information.

Camping with Your Dog

1. Research ‘pet friendly’ camp locations. Ask your friends, check your library or search the Internet for pet friendly campgrounds. Always call ahead to make sure pets are still welcome. (Rules and regulations about dogs are always changing.) Ask about any restrictions that may limit dog access such as hiking trails or beaches.

2. If you’re planning to camp in a tent, acclimate your pet to the tent at home before the trip. Set it up in your living room or backyard – in a place where your dog is comfortable. Let him freely sniff and explore the tent. Make the tent comfortable and safe by putting his bed or crate pad inside and reward him with treats when he goes in the tent freely. Teach your dog that a tent is a place to be quiet and calm. Lay down blankets or towels so your dog’s nails do not harm the tent floor. Plan to have your pet sleep in the tent with you, not alone outside or in the car. 

3. Acclimate your dog to the outdoors and all the wonderful sounds of nature. Start by taking him on dog walks in the woods. Be sure to have some hikes at dusk so he is used to nighttime noises, as well.
   
   
4. Bring the following essentials for your pet: his own dog bed, protection from the elements (coat and or booties), food, treats, water, brush, flea comb, shampoo for emergencies, towel, collar and leash, food and water bowls, water canteen for hiking, pooper scooper or plastic bags, toys, first aid kit, sunscreen and insect repellent for dogs.  It also is a good idea to have a health certificate and or proof of vaccinations on hand.  Always make sure your pet has an ID tag with emergency alternate phone numbers that can be reached when you are away from home.