Traveling With Your Furry Companion

Do you have any plans for a trip during the late summer? Maybe you’re heading to a secluded lodge or joining your family at the beach. Many of our adorable companions thoroughly enjoy venturing to new places alongside their humans. Many people would rather stay at home. Certainly, there may be instances where you have to accompany your pet on a journey for purposes other than leisure, such as moving to a new location. Continue reading for tips from a Galena, MD veterinarian on traveling with your beloved pets.

Factors to Keep in Mind When Making Travel Arrangements for Your Pet

Traveling by air can be a source of anxiety for our furry friends. Fido and Fluffy’s stress levels will increase as the day or flight gets longer. A three-hour direct flight will be much more comfortable for your pet than a grueling 14-hour journey with layovers.

We generally advise against flying with larger dogs unless it is absolutely necessary. Before booking, take your time and thoroughly research flying with your pet.

Many folks inquire about the guidelines for traveling with pets. 

• Service animals are readily accepted on flights, but other pets may be subject to various restrictions.
• The TSA has established standard procedures for ensuring that pets can pass through security without any issues. Pets must be on a leash or in carriers. However, it may be necessary to temporarily remove the leash and carry your pet through the metal detector. Carriers will also be subject to inspection.
• In addition to that, every airline has its own distinct policies. Southwest, Alaska, United, American, Delta, Hawaiian, Spirit, and Frontier are some airlines that offer the convenience of allowing pets to travel in the cabin. It would be advisable to verify with the airline. Ask about things like weight restrictions and whether purchasing a seat for your pet is allowed.

Booking Your Pet’s Flight

If you’re traveling with your furry companion, it’s best to consider booking a direct flight whenever possible. It’s great if your pet is small enough to accompany you in the cabin during your flight. On the other hand, bigger pets might have to be transported in the luggage compartment.

Think carefully before making a reservation for pets to travel with the luggage, as it may cause them quite a bit of stress and discomfort. The cabinets are quite noisy and do not offer the same level of climate control as the cabin. If there are any delays, your dear friend may be stuck in his kennel for a while.

Look at the websites of different airlines and browse through reviews from fellow travelers who have brought their furry friends along. Additionally, arranging a non-stop flight or one with a brief layover would be beneficial.

It would be beneficial to consult with your veterinarian as well. Travel documents may be required, and your pet may need additional vaccinations or parasite treatments. Naturally, the determining factor will be the location of your trip.

It might be helpful to consider administering anti-anxiety medication or sedatives to your pet during travel. Always consult with your veterinarian before giving anything to your beloved pet. If you decide to administer any calming medication to your pet, it is important to carefully stick to the instructions.

Additionally, it’s important to make sure your pet has a microchip and is wearing identification tags. GPS tags are also a great idea. Take a moment to explore the wide range of options before purchasing.

It is important to make sure that your contact information is on file with the carrier. This can be easily done using baggage tags, although a mailing label covered with clear tape would also work perfectly.

Traveling With Your Furry Companions

Car rides are generally more comfortable for Fido and Fluffy than airplane rides. Certain guidelines remain unchanged: it is still important to exercise caution and take all necessary measures to ensure the comfort and safety of your companion during the journey.

Getting an exceptional crate is a solid starting point, but other factors must be considered.

• Make sure that the cabin is comfy and inviting. Before taking your pet out to the car, start the engine and adjust the climate control.
• It’s important to make sure your pet has proper air circulation. Crack a window and/or activate the air conditioning.
• When riding with dogs, take regular breaks so that Fido can stretch his legs and relieve himself a bit. (Note: this is a fantastic opportunity to utilize a park or trail locator app.)
• Never leave pets unattended in cars, especially in hot weather. Temps inside cars can hit deadly levels in just a few minutes! 

What to Do If Your Pet Gets Carsick?

Just like humans, certain pets are more susceptible to motion sickness. If your pet becomes unwell while traveling, you can help them adjust by gradually exposing them to car rides. Start with shorter distances and gradually increase the length. Your veterinarian can also provide prescriptions for medication. Another important point to remember is that if your pet tends to experience carsickness, it is advisable not to feed them right before a journey. 

Is It Necessary To Use A Crate When Traveling With My Pet?

It is a requirement that pets travel in a container or carrier when flying on airplanes. Typically, there are no specific regulations regarding car rides, but keeping pets crated still remains the most optimal choice. Although Fido may enjoy looking around while riding with his head out the window, it poses a significant risk to his safety. Fido could get something in his face, whether it’s bugs, gravel, dust, or even lighted cigarettes. In addition, if you were to suddenly come to a halt—or even worse, be involved in an accident—he could sustain severe injuries.

Ensure that your pet’s crate is cozy and inviting. Include some plush bedding and cozy toys. Of course, making sure that your pet feels at ease in their crate should start well before the journey. It would be best to start this process when your furry friend is still young. It is important for your dog to feel at ease when being crated for travel or appointments, even if you don’t intend to crate him every night.

Your pet really needs to see their crate as a cozy den rather than a confinement. You want him to develop positive connections with it. Begin by providing toys and treats in their crate, gradually transitioning to feeding him inside it.

As you continue, you can move on to shutting the door and gradually extending the duration of time your pet stays in the crate.

Another option to consider is automobile seat belts and netting. Just be careful. These products will keep your beloved pet from roaming the cabin and causing any disruptions, but they may not offer significant protection in case of an accident. Take a look at reviews and reach out to your veterinarian for assistance.

Schedule An Appointment At Our Pet Clinic In Galena, Md.

Does your pet require a travel certificate? Feel free to reach out to us for any of your pet’s veterinary care needs. We are here to assist you as your Galena, MD pet hospital!