Most people travel for their holiday celebrations and they usually take their family with them. There are some that just can not live without their pets as well. If you intend to travel with your pet you have to plan ahead to make the journey pleasant and comfortable for both you and the animal.
· Traveling by Car
If you are going for a road trip for the holidays, make sure that you do not let the pet loose inside your vehicle. You can get your pet a safety harness that can be attached to your car's seat belt system. Or you can just put your pet in a cage. A pet carrier is also a good idea, but could be more expensive too. Always put your pet in the back seat.
· Traveling by Air
If you are flying to your destination, a pet carrier is a must to comply with airline regulations. Check with the airlines regarding the pet carrier dimensions to ensure that you will be buying the right-sized one. A pet can travel by air in the cabin if it does not exceed 22 pounds in weight, 18 inches in length and 11 inches tall.
For international traveling, you will need certain documents for your pet before you can take it with you. It would best if you can give at least 6 weeks permission to start taking care of the papers.
Do not travel with your pet unless you have it checked and vaccinated by the veterinarian. Always carry your pet's current health certificate along with the record of vaccinations.
· Pet Foods
Take plenty of pet foods; you can never be sure if your pets' favorite brand of pet foods will be available at your destination, so it is better to be sure.
· Feeding Instructions
If you are flying, feed your pet with a light snack 5 to 6 hours before departure. Do not give your pet any liquid 2 hours before departure. If you are going by the car, try not to feed your pet while you are moving.
· Put ID Tags
Whether you are taking your pet for domestic or international traveling, it is best if you can attach an ID tag to your pet. The ID tag must contain your home address and telephone number as well as your destination's address and telephone number.
Before you take off it is also important to check if your pet is going to be welcome at your destination. If you are visiting relatives, you need to let them know that you will be bringing your pet. If you are staying at a hotel, check about the accommodation's rules and regulations regarding pets.
Also make sure that your pet is travel-ready. Animals can be more fidgety than kids during long journeys. If your pet has never been anywhere else but home, you can start making him travel-ready by taking him to the supermarket, the park or at the mall.
Finally, try to be as patient as possible. You need to understand that you are not going to deal with your pet alone; you are also going to have to deal with other people's reaction to your pet.
