* Before you go
“Visit your veterinarian within 10 days of your trip to make sure your pet is healthy and ready for travel,” says Dr. Robyn Jaynes, a veterinarian and PetSmart expert. “Most airlines and boarding facilities require proof of vaccinations.”
*· If you’re driving, “acclimate your pet to the car so that they view it as a reward rather than the typical trip to the vet,” advises Dr. Jules Benson, VP of Veterinary Services at Petplan Pet Insurance. He recommends driving your four-legged friend to a park to get them comfortable with a car ride.
Lastly, scope out local vets near your destination ahead of time, which will save you from having to scramble during an emergency. gopetplan.com can help.
* Trains and Planes
Avoid surprises by being prepared. Be sure to check a carrier’s policies before you leave.
Amtrak has a service dogs-only policy, but Long Island Railroad, Metro-North and New Jersey Transit allow pets in carry-on travel cases.
*· Air travel requires a reservation. Generally, pets less than 20 pounds are welcome, says Jennifer Brent of Found Animals, a nonprofit. Many carriers cap the number of animals allowed per flight so make your reservations as far in advance as possible. Plan to spend at least $100 each way for domestic flights, says Brent.
Check the weather forecast. If the temperature is below 45 degrees or above 85 degrees, Frontier Airlines will not transport your pet unless you have a Certificate of Acclimation signed by your vet. Some other carriers won’t fly them at all.
*· Use a properly ventilated, airline-approved crate that gives your cat or dog enough space to stand up, turn around and lie down comfortably, says vet Dr. Amber Anderson. The bottom should be covered with a towel. Print your pet’s name and your name, address and phone number for both your home and destination on the outside of the crate, and “never put a leash in the crate because your pet could get tangled up in it.”
*· Check with your vet before giving your pet a sedative. “These medications can interfere with your pet’s ability to maintain balance and equilibrium, which could prevent them from being able to brace themselves and avoid injury,” says Anderson. “Air travel while under the influence is especially dangerous as exposure to increased altitude can cause respiratory and cardiovascular problems.”
*· “Take your dog’s scent with you,” recommends “Dog Whisperer” Cesar Millan. “Bringing his bed, blanket or toy that smells like home will make him feel calm and relaxed .”
* Automobiles
Most bus companies, including Bolt, Megabus, Greyhound and Peter Pan, only allow service animals onboard, so if you’re interested in the open road, you’ll need to do the driving. *
“Pets should never be allowed to roam free in the car and shouldn’t be anywhere close to the driver,” says dog trainer Jonathan Klein. Keep your dog or cat in a crate or specialty harness, which attaches to your car’s safety belt. Be sure to leave off his collar. It could break his neck or choke him during an accident. Also, keep the dog away from seats with an airbag, which, when activated, can propel an animal through the window.
*· Anderson suggests taking two gallons of extra drinking water from home.
When you get where you’re going, “claim your travel space,” encourages Millan. When you arrive at your accommodation, enter first. Be calm and assertive, which will help you feel comfortable in the room before you introduce your dog to an unfamiliar place.
Brent also encourages keeping up your usual routine while away; “If your cat is used to playtime promptly at 6 p.m., keep it up. And if you’re changing time zones, be aware that your pet is not changing the hands on their watches — they may need to eat at different times and need transition time to get used to that change.”
Pack it!
Pet-friendly travel products that will help you coast along
Busy Buddy
Fun treat dispensing games and toys will keep your pet occupied and satiated.
Prices vary, premier.com
Dog Bottle & Bowl
A stainless steel water bottle with built-in bowl lets you give your pet a drink anytime, anywhere.
$15.99, h2o4k9.com
Eco Nap
This portable bed for cats and dogs is perfect for on-the-go naps.
$31.90, westpawdesign.com
Kitty Crackers
Keep your feline happy by bringing on-the-go catnip. $18, georgesf.com
Fleece & Berber Puppy Travel Blanket
This cozy polar fleece travel blanket keeps cats and small dogs warm. $30, zoomiesnyc.com
Thundershirt
This pressurized jacket (left) reduces anxiety in dogs. $39.95, thundershirt.com