For many families, traveling with four-legged friends has become the norm rather than the exception. Whether it’s a road trip or a long flight, bringing Fido or Fluffy along happens often enough that pet-friendly hotels and airlines have become a prominent business model. Despite the commonality, hitting the road with your furry companions in tow isn’t as simple as it might seem. There are a handful of things you should keep in mind to ensure your pet’s safety and comfort no matter where your travels may take you. Here are some tips for traveling with pets.

Medical Records Are a Must

Even if your pet doesn’t have any health problems, you should always bring available medical records with you when you travel. If something were to happen while you’re far away from home, having shot records and other vital health information to give the local veterinarian could prove invaluable.

Make Sure Your Pet is Healthy Enough to Travel

Traveling can be very stressful for a pet, and if they’re either very young or very old that can make it dangerous. It’s important to confirm with your veterinarian that your pet is healthy enough for travel before you leave. Even pets who have traveled before may not be equipped for an especially long trip, so always relay your plans to your vet just to be safe.

Don’t Forget to Pack for Your Pets

Whenever we travel, we often run a bunch of ‘what if?’ scenarios through our head to narrow down what items we need to pack. The same should also be done for your pet to maximize their comfort during the trip. For example, smaller dogs may need a sweater if it will be cold where you’re going. Or if it’s warm, they may need items to keep cool, such as a cooling vest or shoes for the hot pavement.

Be Ready for Flying

There’s a lot that goes into flying with your pet, so it’s vital you know what to expect so you can stay ahead of the curve. Depending on the airline, your pet may need to fly with checked baggage or it may be allowed to stay in the cabin. Also, be aware that airlines often have size regulations for carriers. Check with your airline well ahead of time for any unexpected fees or regulations. Keep in mind you may also need additional vaccinations or paperwork when traveling out of the country.

Carrier Tips

Be sure your carrier is large enough for the pet to stand up and turn around. If your pet is new to the carrier, allow them to get used to it as much as possible before the trip begins. Your pet may need some stress relief if they will be in the carrier for a long time, so toss in a familiar blanket and some toys. For added stress relief, you can try using a Thundershirt, which applies stress-relieving pressure to the pet’s body or a DAP collar, which emits stress-reducing hormones. Be sure to provide plenty of I.D. information on the outside of the carrier and collar, like your home address, cellphone number and prominent signage stating there is a “Live animal inside.”

Don’t Forget Exercise and Hydration

This goes for both the airport and on road trips – give your pet as much opportunity to stretch its legs and use the bathroom as possible before they spend a long time in the carrier or car. On road trips, experts recommend a pit stop every two hours while keeping a gallon of water on hand for proper hydration.

Stay Safe in the Car

Most people allow their dogs to roam freely in the car and hang their heads out of the window on occasion. This may be fine while traveling around town, but on a long road trip, you and your pup’s safety could be at risk. The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals recommends your dog remains in a secured carrier or a harness attached to a seatbelt to minimize risk of distraction and the chance of serious injury during an auto accident. Furthermore, when a dog’s head hangs out the window, they’re at risk for lung infections. No matter how much they beg, keep the window closed on the highway.

Hit the Road in a Comfortable New Toyota

After you and your furry companion return from your road trip, there’s a good chance a professional vehicle detail is in order. Toyota of Seattle provides expert detailing services for cars, trucks and SUVs. Detailing includes everything from shampooing the carpets to pet hair removal. Visit our SODO location or call 206-382-8800 for a price quote today!