Traveling with Your Pet

I was listening to the radio this morning about the dangers of leaving your pet in the car this time of year and it reminded me of traveling anywhere with your pet.

According to recent Travel Industry Association study 14 percent - or 29 million Americans - travel with their pets.

In 2007, pet travel soared 33 percent to a record 20 million, according to the American Pet Products Manufacturers Association.

According to actress and author Mariel Hemingway, smart travelers have happy pets. Her travel plans include her six dogs. “I think it’s important to be smart about traveling so that both you and your pet have an awesome trip,” Hemingway said. Planning a few basic considerations can help make all the difference.

Here are a few tips that will help both you and your pet.

If you're driving you need to be cautious about leaving your pet in the car. A car in the sun can heat up to over 100 degrees in under a couple minutes. Park in the shade. Leave windows open and bring water plenty of water. Bring water from home in plastic containers to help prevent stomach upset from different water.

If you’re flying, book a direct flight. Always check with the airline and/or your travel agent to find out the rules for the airline on which you will be flying.

If your pet is in the plane’s baggage section, write “live animal” on the crate, make sure you mark it with arrows for the upright position, and be sure it is closed, but not locked, so personnel can open it in case of emergency.

Bring familiar items for your pet, such as a favorite blanket, treats and toys. I traveled a occassionally with my previous dog - Tigger. She had a favorite bed. As long as that was in the car or where ever we went, she was comfortable and felt at home.

Pack a first aid kit especially for pets (tweezers, gauze, hydrogen peroxide).

Make sure your cat or dog wears a collar with an ID tag, just in case you’re separated.

Never leave your cat or dog alone in a parked vehicle.

Keep your pet on a leash as much as possible when you’re outside your vehicle.

Talk to your veterinarian before you leave home. Your vet can tell you about any potential problems and how to avoid them.

If you're thinking about taking a trip wit your pet, here are some helpful links: http://www.findvacations.org/search.php?h=pet%20air%20travel