Articles

If you're like most dog lovers, the first thing you think of when planning a trip or vacation is "what about my dog?" Bringing your dog along can be lots of fun. But poor planning could make both of you homesick in a hurry. Read on to learn some rules of the road.

If you’ve decided to take your dog along, start by making sure your best friend has proper identification, should he stray or get lost. This means either a good collar with the appropriate license and ID tags, a microchip, or both. It never hurts to bone up on basic obedience and leash manners, both for safety's sake and to save your sanity. Your next step should be to schedule a visit to the veterinarian. This will ensure your dog is in good enough health to travel and is current on all necessary vaccinations. Be sure to stock up on heartworm preventative, flea and tick control, and any other prescriptions your pet needs while you're away. Then it's time to decide how you and your dog are going to get there.

Air Travel has become more complex and stressful over the past decade, and not just for humans. Plan well ahead and be prepared to do a good deal of research and comparison shopping before you book the flight. Rules, restrictions and fees can vary dramatically depending on carrier, destination, and time of year.

There are two basic options for the canine passenger: cabin or cargo. Small dogs weighing fifteen pounds or less can usually ride in the cabin. However, the carrier, with Fifi inside, must fit under the seat in front of you and she must stay inside for the duration of the trip. Onboard spots for pets are subject to limited availability, so you'll want to confirm that there's room for your pet on the flight before you commit.

Dogs that fail to meet the minimum weight requirement must be checked along with baggage into the pressurized cargo hold. Restrictions apply here too, and many airlines will not accept dogs whose combined weight with the carrier or crate exceeds 100 lbs. Some airlines do not allow pets in cargo at all.

Here are some questions to consider before you book the flight:

• At what time of year are you traveling? Federal, state, and airline-based regulations prohibit travel through destinations where extreme temperatures may be in place. Animals are prohibited from traveling in cargo if weather conditions on the ground are either too cold (45 degrees Fahrenheit or below) or too hot (typically around 85 degrees Fahrenheit or above) at any stop along the way. Direct, nonstop flights are always advisable when traveling with your dog to avoid exposure to heat or cold during layovers.
• What documentation is required? Most airlines require a valid health certificate from your veterinarian. Domestic travel is usually fairly simple, although some states do have special vaccination requirements so it’s a good idea to check with the State Veterinarian at your destination. The rules for international travel are more complex. At minimum, a USDA health certificate is required. This goes along with whatever documentation, permit, or notarization is required by the country to which you’re traveling. For a comprehensive and up-to-date summary of rules and regulations for international travel, visit the USDA Animal and Plant Heath Inspection Service (APHIS) website . The importation process can take upwards of six months for heavily restricted destinations, such as the United Kingdom, Hawaii, Australia and New Zealand so it’s essential to plan well ahead.
• Is your dog at risk for any health complications? Dogs with frail health, or with respiratory or heart conditions may not handle stress well. Restrictions often apply for short-nosed breeds such as Pugs, Bulldogs, Shih-Tzus, Lhasa Apsos, and Boston Terriers. These short-nosed breeds are very sensitive to poor air quality and overheating.
• Is your dog’s carrier or crate suitable? Federal guidelines dictate the size, strength, ventilation, labeling and sanitary provisions for pet carriers and kennels in cargo. Steer clear of cheap carriers that could open or break in transit. Soft-sided carriers are a nice option for pets that will travel in the cabin with you, as long as they are secure. It’s best to check with the individual airline for specific requirements.
• Is your dog’s temperament suitable for air travel? Dogs with separation anxiety, aggression issues, those who bark incessantly or just don’t tolerate being caged or crated are obviously not the best candidates for the friendly skies. Dogs traveling in the cabin must be able to tolerate being taken in and out of the carrier for inspection when going through security. A secure leash and harness are essential to making sure a startled pet doesn’t bolt.

If this all sounds too complicated, there’s a new option. Pet Airways runs charted flights for pets only, aboard private jets with pet-friendly amenities, departing from a growing list of major U.S. airports.

Automobile travel. Let's face it. Going by car can be a lot less stressful—and a good deal cheaper—than flying for all concerned. Most dogs are used to traveling in cars and may even associate it with fun experiences, like trips to the park. To ensure your dog's safety while riding, consider purchasing an appropriately sized doggie seatbelt or restraint harness. For everyone's safety, dogs should be restrained in the back seat or rear compartment of the vehicle. This reduces the risk that your dog will distract you while driving, or worse, be injured if the vehicle stops short or is involved in an accident.

When you and your dog head out on the highway, plan to make regular stops, at least once every three hours, so your dog can relieve himself, stretch his legs, and get a drink of water. Keep meals and snacks small while en route to prevent motion sickness. Always keep your pet on leash in unfamiliar surroundings. Never leave your dog alone in the car, even in the shade, even for a short time. Unattended cars can dangerously overheat in a short period of time.

Don't forget to pack the necessities (see box), including your dog's own food, treats, and possibly water from home as a safeguard against tummy troubles. If you'll be on the road for a while, check out DogFriendly.com for dog-friendly restaurants, activities and lodging. And if it’s a big move you’re making, consider leaving it to the professionals, such as PetMovers.com. And since emergencies can happen, even away from home, don’t forget a doggy first aid kit.

If a "stay-cation" is more up dog's alley, there are three main options: boarding, in-home care, or entrusting your dog to family and friends. Your veterinarian knows your dog's health and temperament and may be able to assist you with recommendations. The following are some online resources for finding suitable professional care for your canine while you're away:

• Motion sickness. Dogs on the go can suffer motion sickness just like people. It’s best to avoid large meals, and even consider withholding food for several hours before travel. For dogs who naturally have uneasy stomaches, there may be special medication that can help. Consult with your veterinarian.
• Travel anxiety. If your dog starts to pace, whine, drool and bark the minute your car picks up speed, she may be suffering from a bona fide anxiety problem. Some anxious dogs do better when restrained in the car, as in a seatbelt harness or crate. Desensitization—practice car trips that start very short and gradually increase, coupled with of treats and tons of praise when your dog stays calm—can be very effective. Your vet or veterinary behaviorist can suggest additional strategies that may help.
• Tranquilizers. If your dog is likely suffer severe distress, your veterinarian may be able to prescribe medication that will help. Tranquilizers or sedatives are not safe for air travel if your dog is going in cargo. These drugs can lower blood pressure, and slow the heart and breathing. No one will be there to assist if your dog has a bad reaction. Also, never give any medication to your pet except under the direction of your veterinarian.
• Natural remedies. Bach Flower Rescue Remedy aadded to your dog’s water can ease stress, as can D.A.P. spray or collars. D.A.P., or “Dog Appeasing Pheromone,” mimics the chemical signal released by a mother dog to calm her pups. It can be very effective for some dogs with travel anxiety or fear of the unfamiliar. A drop of lavender oil applied to the top of the head can help calm some dogs.

With your best friend now safe and comfortable, prepare to sit back and enjoy the ride.