Lying on the floor all day getting scratches, praises, and treats can be ruff. Just like humans, pets deserve a vacation now and then, and if you are planning on taking your furry friend for a trip this summer, there are a few things to consider.
If you’re planning to take time off and either hit the road or the runway this summer with your animal companion, it’s important to remember the essentials for traveling with your pet.
Traveling by car
When traveling by car this summer, the Humane Society notes that dogs and cats should not be allowed to roam freely in the vehicle.
Instead, the society shares that the safest way for a dog to travel in the car is in a crate anchored to the vehicle. Other options include restraints or seatbelts for the pups, but the Humane Society says that these can become a distraction for drivers and “haven’t been reliably shown to protect dogs during a crash.”
As for feline friends, the society says that cats should be kept in their carriers, adding that most “cats aren’t comfortable traveling in cars” to begin with.
Other reminders offered for traveling with pets include keeping their heads inside the car, making frequent stops, having another human with you to help when needed, and keeping animals out of the front seat.
One of the most vital pieces of advice the Humane Society has to offer for those taking road trips with their pet is to never leave them inside a car alone.
The society notes that 72 degrees Fahrenheit outside can turn into 116 degrees inside a car within an hour, putting animals in danger.
“On an 85-degree day, even with the windows slightly open, the temperature inside your car can reach 102 degrees in just 10 minutes,” the Humane Society shared.
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Traveling by plane
The Humane Society says that before you take to the skies with your pet, it’s best to make sure you check all other options, as flying can be stressful and sometimes dangerous.
For certain animal breeds that have “pushed in” faces, medically known as “brachycephalic,” the Humane Society says flying can be a health risk. Animals this would affect include bulldogs, pugs, and Persian cats, as their “short nasal passages leave them especially vulnerable to oxygen deprivation and heat stroke.”
Still, sometimes air travel is the only option, and in these scenarios, the Human Society recommends that travelers ask if their animal can be in the cabin with them.
“Most airlines will allow you to take a cat or small dog in the cabin for an additional fee,” the society says. “But you must call the airline well in advance; there are limits to the number of animals allowed in the cabin.”
When flying with your dog, it’s essential pet owners check all size requirements and regulations. If doing it on your own is too much, the society says some companies will help travelers navigate through the process.
Among the most important things to do before you take off is to have your pet checked out by their veterinarian.
“Most airlines require a health certificate for animals, typically issued within 10 days of travel,” the Humane Society shared. “This is also a good time to ensure your pet’s vaccinations are up to date and that they aren’t battling any illnesses that could be exacerbated by heat or stress.”
For the full list of flying recommendations visit the Humane Society’s site here.
Traveling by ship or train
There aren’t many options for pets when it comes to those preparing to travel by ship this summer. The Human Society says that with the exception of assistance dogs, only a few cruise lines allow for pets to come with passengers.
However, for those looking to take a ship across the ocean, some lines permit pets in private cabins or in the ship’s kennels.
“Contact your cruise line in advance to find out its policies and which of its ships have kennel facilities. If you must use the ship’s kennel, make sure it is protected from the elements and check on your pet frequently,” the Human Society advises.
If you’re taking a train ride this summer, Amtrak allows for some pets on its trains, along with service animals on all lines.
As for smaller railroad companies, it may vary on whether or not pets are allowed.
Most importantly, when traveling with your pet this summer, the Humane Society advises owners to choose whatever is “safest and most comfortable” for their pets.
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“For instance, unless you’ll be able to spend a lot of time with your dog, they’ll probably be happier at home than tagging along on your trip,” the society says.
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