Pets are part of the family and at one time or another, you and your entire family may need or want to travel or move together. Traveling is stressful under the best circumstances; therefore, the below comfort and safety tips for pet-friendly travel apply to everyone who wants to make traveling with your furry friends a safe and pleasurable experience. Of course, preparation is always first and foremost with any trip, especially if you’re bringing along a beloved pet:

1. Invest in a quality carrier/crate

It should be secure and large enough for your pet to sit, stand, and easily turn around. Also, leave room for essentials – such as blankets, water bowl, and a small litter box for cats or ferrets.

2. Safely secure your pet

Put your pet in the carrier and take them for short drives. Increasing travel time gradually so they get used to the car. If you’re not driving, walk them around the airport, train station, or bus depot to allow them to get familiar with the smells, sights, and sounds of the area.

3. Mode of transportation

Consider other forms of transport that will be part of your trip – such as cab rides, rental vehicles, boats, etc. and make sure you are aware of any restrictions.

4. Get a vet go-ahead prior to travelling

A full exam is a good idea to make sure your pet is in top physical health for travel. Make sure you have a sufficient supply of medication, special food, and flea and tick treatment for the entire trip and a few weeks after. Nails should be trimmed to avoid getting snagged in small holes, crevices, and the door of the carrier/crate.

5. Stress aids

Your veterinarian is also a great resource to discuss all options regarding travel and specific ways to reduce stress if your pet gets anxious when in a new environment. Also, consider microchipping your pet or getting a collar with a GPS tracker – to reduce your anxiety if your pet is lost while on vacation.

6. Pet paperwork

Additionally, depending on your destination, some areas require rabies certification, blood tests, and specific vaccines. Failure to abide by these rules of your destination can result in a separation from your pet upon arrived, as officials may require a quarantine of your pet.

7. Create and use a pet travel checklist

The night prior to travel, check off the following pet travel items:

• Do not feed your pet 4 to 6 hours before a flight or car ride.
• Pack the essentials for your pets comfort such as their favorite blanket and toy.
• Exercise your pet more than usual to make sure your pet is tired enough for the trip and will sleep most of the journey.

8. Prepare for your stay

Staying in a pet-friendly hotel or resort? Prepare your pet by:

• Planning the extra rental and cleaning fees into your vacation budget. Nightly fees could be $50 a night for your pet and $100 extra for cleaning fees.
• Many hotels reserve the first floor for families traveling with pets.
• Door hangers are usually provided to alert the staff that an animal is inside. Please use this.
• Play with and spend quality time with your pet in the room prior to leaving them alone.
• Never leave your pet alone in the room without being crated.
• Know the area, for instance, local dog parks, beaches that allow dogs, pet shops, and the local restaurants that are pet-friendly.
• Have a wonderful trip!