Jennifer Gardner Columnist | Posted: Saturday, December 1, 2007 10:00 pm
If you're planning to travel for the holidays, you'll need to make arrangements for your pets.
Depending on the form of travel and the number of pets you have, you might decide to take your pet along. Today more than ever, airlines and hotels are accommodating pets on the go. Or, you may decide to pack your pooch in the car to get to your destination.
Here are some things to remember when traveling with pets:
• Always have proper identification on your pet. The best way to do this is with a microchip and a collar with ID tag. The combination means your pet can be identified even if the collar is missing; the collar and tag make it simple for a finder to contact you right away.
While it's important to do this when the animal will be in your care the entire time, it's vital if your pet will be flying or will be out of your sight and in others' care.
• Get your pet used to a crate. Even by car, being in a crate can be more secure for your pets and safer for you. Get your pet used to the crate, if he isn't already, by feeding him inside and giving him good treats and toys to enjoy in it. Most dogs find a crate to be something like a security blanket and like to be inside. Cats can be harder to make happy inside a crate, but will eventually settle down.
• Plan regular breaks for food, water and using the bathroom. Most pets will not eat or drink while in a moving vehicle, so stop from time to time to give them a chance to do so. Also, some pets will potty while inside the car, so it's good to take them out frequently so they don't have a chance to mess their crates. (A few dogs are fearful in the car and may urinate from fear. Older pets may not have the best bladder control. For these pets, use a puppy training pad at the bottom of the crate to absorb liquid and take extras so you can change them regularly.)
• Pack cautiously. Make sure you've got a copy of your pet's vaccination records if they will be required where you go. Also have a copy of all medical records, a good supply of any medications your pet takes, and a recent photo of your pet. These are all important if you should be in an emergency situation or your pet is lost. And don't forget all the regular supplies: food and water dishes, leash, blanket or bedding, toys, treats and cleaning supplies.
• Talk to your vet if your pet is an anxious traveler. If your cat howls the entire trip or your dog shakes in fear, you should consult your vet for options during travel. Most vets no longer prefer to tranquilize a pet, but there are some medications that can be given safely.
• Make sure you know the regulations for any airline you fly. Don't just ask your travel agent or the person who answers the airline's phone. Get the actual policies in writing and adhere to them. Most airlines have slightly different requirements, and those can change at any time, so get the current information. If you can, book a flight at an off-peak time so you've got less stress in settling your pet and boarding.
• Stay in a pet-friendly hotel. But even there, make sure you're watching your pet and preventing any destruction of hotel property.
It's a great idea to take a sheet along that you can throw over any furniture your pet wishes to sit on. If your pet does cause any damage, own up to it and offer to pay for it. That makes it easier for everyone with pets to find accommodations in the future.
What about if your pet must stay home? You've got a couple of options: a pet sitter who comes to your home or a boarding kennel. What you choose will depend on your pet and your plans.
• A pet sitter you don't know should have references and insurance. Call the references; double check the insurance. Any pet sitter, whether it's a friend, neighbor or professional, should have your contact information and your vet's contact information.
• If you are boarding, visit the kennel before you take your pet there. Is it clean? Are the employees pleasant? Will the pet have plenty of time outside the kennel or is the kennel large enough to let your pet exercise? Use common sense and choose a boarding location that will best care for your pet. Cost isn't everything.
• Ask your vet if his or her office provides boarding services. For pets with special needs, the vet's office has the staff to give proper care, medicate as needed, etc. As with any other kennel, make sure your pet will get human contact and exercise while you're away.
• Make arrangements well in advance of travel. You may have a hard time finding a boarding facility with room over the holidays.
Whether your pet travels with you or stays home, plan ahead for safe and stress-free holiday travel.
Jennifer Gardner can be reached at jennifer@visual