Summer
travel season is in full swing, and we think trips are always more fun
when you bring your furry friends along. If you’re planning to take a
vacation this summer with your pets in tow, we’ve got you covered.
Taking a road trip? Here are a few car travel safety tips brought to you by
ASPCA sponsor, Subaru.
Practice makes perfect: It’s a good idea to practice having your pet ride along for a series of short car trips leading up to your big trip.
Ride safely:
Keep your pets safe and secure in the car by having them ride in a
well-ventilated crate or carrier. The crate should be large enough for
your pet to stand, sit, lie down and turn around in. Secure your pet’s
crate so it will not slide or shift in the event of an abrupt stop.
Road trip snacks:
Be sure to pack plenty of water, and avoid feeding your pet in a moving
vehicle. Your pet's travel-feeding schedule should start with a light
meal three to four hours prior to departure.
For a full list of car travel safety tips, visit our Pet Care section.
Traveling
by plane? Unless your furry friend is small enough to ride under your
seat, the ASPCA advises avoiding air travel with pets. If you must bring
your pet along on your flight, it’s best to plan ahead. We recommend
you book a direct flight if possible. Here are a few other suggestions.
Careful with crates:
Prior to your trip, purchase a USDA-approved shipping crate that is
large enough for your pet to stand, sit and turn around in comfortably.
IDs, please:
Be sure to mark the crate with the words “Live Animal,” as well as your
name, cell phone and destination phone number and a photo of your pet.
Make sure all vaccinations are up-to-date, and that your pet has been
micro chipped and is wearing a collar with your travel contact
information.
In-flight food: Attach a pouch of
your pet’s food to the outside of his or her crate, and freeze water in a
dish for your pet to drink as it melts throughout the flight.
For more air travel safety tips, visit our Pet Care section.
No
matter where you’re headed this summer, please be sure your pet is
wearing an ID tag at all times. Happy trails and safe travels!
