Best and Safest Ways For Pets To Travel

There are two main factors that are prompting people with pets to take them on vacation: the high costs of boarding them at kennels and the increasing number of hotels that are pet-friendly.  Both of these reasons have resulted in an increasing number of vacationers bringing along dogs and cats.  However, it is not all that easy as there are various precautions that must be followed to ensure that your pet is protected in terms of health and safety.  Here are a few tips that can help you plan your pet-friendly vacations so they are safe and fun!

1. Never buy pop-up pet carriers
Many travelers buy pop up pet carrier’s that are available for cheaper prices.  What they don’t understand is that despite the two popular features of being lightweight and fold easily, they can actually be a safety hazard for all kinds of animals.  These affordable pop-up carriers are very delicate and can just fall apart while your pet is inside it.  So invest in a sturdier variety and buy a durable kennel made out of waterproof plastic that provides ventilation.  These kennels are very easy to clean and maintain and are also very portable as they come with handles.

2. Always carry a first-aid kit for your pet and keep it handy
Make sure that you pack a separate handbag for your pet that has food, drinking water, plastic bags, an extra leash, toys and also a first aid kit for your pet.  Prepare the bag in advance and make sure that you have sufficient supplies that can last you days, because of the uncertainty of finding a well-stocked pet store at your destination.  In your first aid kit, make sure to include supplies like an adhesive tape, nonstick bandages, clean cloth and towels, gauze and clean water.

3. Take your veterinarian records along

Make sure that you ask your vet to provide you with a copy of your pet’s medical records and vaccinations and keep them handy in case of emergency.  Also get your pet examined before you leave for your vacation and also make sure you have a health certificate with you.

4. Try to gather information about your destination beforehand
It is important to do your homework about the destination to which you are headed.  Find out if there are any requirements like a health certificate or other documentation.  If you are traveling to another country, be sure to inquire about pets needing to be in quarantine before they are allowed entry, as well as any microchip requirements.

5. Find out about the restrictions and fees that are imposed by pet-friendly hotels
Find out ahead of time just how pet-friendly your destination hotel is.  Some hotels might advertise as being pet-friendly, but they might impose a lot of restrictions which may change the appeal of that hotel.  Try to have a backup plan in case you run into any problems with your hotel’s pet policies.

The more prepared you are for traveling with your pet the better the trip will be!

This article is a guest post from Kelly: About the author: Kelly is a blogger by profession.  She loves writing about technology and luxury.  She is also very fond of dogs!  Recently an article on the Hyundai EON attracted her attention.  These days she is busy in writing an article on designer shoes.