Just like preparing your own travel arrangements, it might take a few extra steps to make sure you don't encounter any hiccups when traveling with your pet. Here are some travel tips to help you avoid any bumps in the road:
1. Check it out before you check in. More hotels now accept pets, but it’s better to be safe than sorry. Call ahead to see if they’ll accept your pet and if there's an additional charge.
2. Make the fun mutual. Never leave a dog in a hotel room unsupervised. If you’re going to New York City to take in a few Broadway shows, it may not be the trip for your pet. Take your pet on trips where he can come along and explore the city.
3. Phone first. If you’re flying, check with the airline at the time of your reservation to find out their policies for pet travel, carrier size requirements and any restrictions that may be of importance (including regarding liquids or other supplies for your pet). Most airlines charge a fee, usually around $100 each way. Be sure you know how to properly ID your pet and its carrier, as well as any restrictions that may impact your pet’s travel.
4. No pets allowed. If traveling to a foreign country, check into which breeds, if any, have been quarantined and find out that country’s regulations regarding certain breeds. France, for instance, doesn’t allow dogs with cropped ears or tails to enter.
5. Get used to it. A month before traveling, take your dog to the airport to desensitize her to the frantic environment.
6. Dry run. Dogs get car sick, too. If you’re planning a big drive, take several shorter rides before your real trip. Make the practice destination somewhere fun for your pet such as a park or a pet supply store, not the vet or the groomer.
7. Creature comfort. Just as with air travel, familiarity and comfort will reduce your pet's stress. Bring his favorite bed, blanket or an item of clothing with your scent on it.
8. Kibbles n’ trips. Bring your dog’s regular food along. This will reduce physical and mental stress, significantly reducing the chance of diarrhea, bad gas or vomiting from occurring, all of which make for a rather unpleasant road trip.
9. Don’t leave him alone. Never leave your pup alone in a locked car in extreme cold or heat. How long you’re away from him is directly related to how tragic the consequences can be.
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