Do you enjoy traveling? Many of our animal companions love visiting new areas with their owners. However, others might prefer to stay at home. Of course, you may need to travel with your pet for a reason other than vacation, such as moving. Continue reading for advice from a Potomac, MD, veterinarian about traveling with Fido and Fluffy.

Flying with Fido and Fluffy

People frequently ask about the restrictions surrounding flying with pets. Federal legislation requires that service animals be allowed on flights at all times. Carriers will also be inspected.

Aside from that, each airline is different. Southwest, Alaska, United, American, Delta, Hawaiian, Spirit, and Frontier are among the airlines that allow pets to travel in the cabin with their owners (or have before). However, you should check with the airline directly and review their most updated standards. These may also differ depending on weight limitations and whether you can purchase a seat for your pet.

The TSA has regulations to ensure that pets can pass through security smoothly. Animals must be on a leash or in a carrier. You may have to take your pet off the leash and bring them through the metal detector.

Before booking a flight for your pet, consider the following:

• Flying can be quite stressful for pets. We normally advise against it, unless absolutely required. If you absolutely must travel with your pet, take your time and do your research before booking.
• If you’re traveling with Fido or Fluffy, try to book a direct flight whenever possible. A three-hour nonstop flight will be more convenient for your animal companion than a 14-hour excursion with layovers. Fido and Fluffy will grow increasingly more stressed during longer flights.
• If your pet can fit in the cabin, that is ‘pawesome.’ However, larger pets may have to travel in the luggage compartment. Think twice before arranging a flight this way, as it could be stressful and uncomfortable. The storage areas are very noisy and lack the same climate control as the cabin. If there are any delays, your pet may have to spend a prolonged period of time in his kennel.
• Before you fly, visit your veterinarian. You may need travel certificates. Your pet may also need extra vaccines or parasite treatment. Of course, the specific possibilities will vary depending on where you are going. A pet that is going to the southwest may need a rattlesnake vaccine; one headed north may just need a sweater!
• You may want to give your pet anti-anxiety medication or a sedative before you leave. Pet calming products may also be useful here. Hopefully, this goes without saying, but never give anything to your pet unless your veterinarian specifically prescribes it.
• Research your destination and learn about local risks. Every habitat has a unique flora and fauna … some of which might be dangerous or even deadly to your furry bestie.
• Next, make sure your pet is microchipped and wearing identification tags. You’ll also need to verify that the information is up to date. You may want to include a local phone number on the tags. For example, if you’ll be staying with a relative for a few weeks, you can make fresh tags using their phone number.
• GPS tags aren’t a terrible idea. Before making a purchase, think about your options and read reviews.
• Make sure your contact information is on file with the carrier. You can cover a mailing label with baggage tags or clear tape.

For more information, contact your Potomac, MD veterinarian.

Driving with Pets

Car rides are far less stressful for Fido and Fluffy than airplane rides. Always consider your pet’s safety first.

Here are some ideas to make car travel simpler for pets:

• If you’re driving in the summer or winter, start the car and adjust the climate control before taking your pet out.
• Make sure your pet gets enough fresh air by cracking a window and/or turning on the air conditioner.
• Make regular stops with your dog so he may stretch his legs and relieve himself. (Hint: Now is an excellent time to use a park or trail-finding app to find new locations to explore with your pet.)
• Some pets, like humans, are prone to vehicle sickness. If your pet gets sick on the road, try desensitizing them by taking them for local drives. Start with short ones and gradually expand the distance that you are going each time. Your veterinarian may also be able to prescribe medication. Just don’t offer anything to your pet unless your veterinarian specifically prescribes it.
• Although some of our canine pals really do enjoy looking out windows, and look adorable doing so, this is really not safe for Fido. Bugs, grit, dust, and even lit cigarettes could get in your dog’s face. Furthermore, if you had to come to a sudden stop—or worse, get into an accident—he could get seriously hurt. Your pet could also potentially tread on a window control, forcing the window to roll up (choking hazard) or down (escape risk).
• Pets should always travel in a crate. Add bedding and toys to the crate to make it comfy. Start getting your pet familiar with their kennel a long time before the journey. Ideally, this should start when your pet is very young. Your pet should see their kennel as a comfortable den, not a jail cell. You want your furry pal to form positive associations with it. Begin by putting toys and treats in their crate and feeding them first nearby, then inside it. Next, close the door. Just close it briefly at first, then gradually increase the amount of time your pet spends in the crate.
• Crates are not your only choice. You could also consider using different pet vehicle safety products, such as netting and seat belts, when driving. Just use caution with these. They will prevent your pet from wandering around the cabin, but they provide little—if any—protection in the event of an accident. Read reviews and consult your Potomac, MD veterinarian for advice.

No matter where you’re going, check and double-check your furry pal’s reservations. You don’t want to find out at the last minute that your dog is too big for that cute Airbnb that you booked!

Packing For Your Furry Bestie

You’ll need to pack for your pet as well. You should include food, treats, a few toys, towels, bedding, a spare leash and collar, a tie-line, and a pet first aid kit. It is also recommended that you bring your animal companion’s documents. (Tip: Save them to a cloud drive so you may access them from anywhere.) Another thing to consider is the fact that pets can get upset stomachs from changing food rapidly.

Keep in mind that sudden dietary changes can cause stomach issues for dogs and cats. If you’re not sure if your pet’s food will be available in your location, consider sending some to yourself.

Schedule An Appointment At Our Potomac, MD Pet Clinic

Does your pet require a travel certificate? Please do not hesitate to contact us if your pet needs veterinary services. As your Potomac, MD, pet hospital, we are dedicated to providing top-notch care and great service!