By Marilyn Soltis for WebVet
Traveling with pets is becoming more and more popular. Today's dogs, and even some cats, are vacationing thanks to friendlier airlines, safety innovations, pet-friendly hotels, resorts, campsites, and restaurants with outdoor dining privileges.
Gregg Takashima, DVM, founder of the Parkway Veterinary Hospital in Portland, Ore., offers tips to keep pets safe while traveling:
By plane
In most cases, it's safe for your pet to travel by plane if your vets give the OK. "Animals accustomed to traveling in a car, going out on walks and who are socialized tend to travel very well depending on their personalities,'' Takashima said.
Traveling internationally or even crossing state lines in a plane requires a health certificate from your vet. Additional ways to prepare:
- Make sure vaccines (especially rabies) are up to date.
- Consider an ID collar and a tag - even a microchip.
The trend nowadays is against sedation unless significant risks for pet injury exist. "Sedation can cause the pet to feel unstable and cause more fear,'' Takashima explained. "Cats tend to fly pretty well because they are usually allowed in the cabin in a cat carrier under the seat.''
Preparations for international travel with pets can be complex and there may be extensive planning. Double check with the airlines and your destination's consulate to make sure you have the most up to date information about the papers you are required.
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