Planning and preparation are necessary when traveling with the family dog or cat.  Consider whether your pet is comfortable and happy when traveling.  Some animals, like some people, function better in familiar surroundings.  A car-sick, unhappy animal can make a trip miserable for everyone.  Some ill or physically impaired dogs and cats cannot withstand the rigors of travel. If this is the case, leave your pet with a relative or at a clean, well-run boarding kennel.

If you will be staying with friends along the way, be considerate.  Find out in advance if the pet is welcome.  The same goes for hotels, motels, parks, and campgrounds.  Check if pets are allowed or kennel facilities are available.  Don't permit the animal to sleep on beds, chairs, or bedspreads.  If the animal must be left alone in the room, place a "Do Not Disturb" sign on the door and inform the maid or front desk.

A few general tips apply whether you travel by car or plane.  Be sure your pet wears a collar with complete identification and license tag.  Have a rabies vaccination certificate if you will cross state or international borders.  Be prepared to present a health certificate, especially if you travel to Canada or Mexico.

Be sure to bring your pet's favorite food, toys and dishes.

Before undertaking a long trip, it would be advisable to have your pet examined by a veterinarian.

Travel by air

Air travel is of most concern to pet owners.  You can minimize the chances of an unpleasant experience by following a few guidelines.

Regulations state that dogs and cats must be at least 8 weeks old and weaned at least 5 days before flying.  Current health and rabies vaccination certificates will be required.  CONTACT THE AIRLINE WELL IN ADVANCE TO CHECK REGULATIONS AND SERVICES, and to make reservations.  Try to book a direct, midweek flight or one with a minimum of stops.  During warmer periods reduce risk of overheating by choosing early morning or late evening flights.

Ask about other cargo on your flight (For example, fumes from dry ice can be lethal).  Be at the airport, early, exercise your pet, place it in a cage yourself, and pick up animal promptly upon arrival.  Don't take leashed animals on escalators.

The proper cage, available from most airlines or pet shops, should have the following features:

• Large enough to allow the animal to stand, turn, and lie down.
• Stong, free of interior protrusions, with handles or grips.
• Leakproof bottom covered with plenty of absorbent material.
• Ventilation on opposite sides, with exterior rims or knobs to prevent blocked air flow.
• Label "Live animals," with arrows indicating upright position, and your name, address, and phone number

Consult your veterinarian for specific feeding instructions.  Age and size of the pet, time and distance of the flight, and regular dietary routine must be considered.

Travel By Car

If your pet is not accustomed to the car, take it for a few short rides before the trip.  Your cat might ride better in a carrying cage.

Stick to your regular feeding routine and give the main meal at the end of the day or when you've reached your destination.  It will be more convenient to feed dry food if your pet is use to it.  Dispose of unused canned food unless it can be refrigerated.  Take along a plastic jug of cold water to avoid possible stomach upset the first day.  Give small portions of both food and water and plan to stop every two hours for exercise.  And remember to include a leash in your travel kit!

Pets should not be allowed to ride with their heads outside car windows.  Particles of dirt can penetrate the eyes, ears, and nose, causing injury or infections.  Excessive amounts of cold air taken into lungs can also cause illness.

When leaving your pet in a parked car, be sure to lock all doors, and open windows enough to provide ventilation without allowing your pet to jump out or get its head caught.  In warm, hot, or humid weather, you should not leave your pet in a parked car!  Grooming (bathing, combing, nail trim) before the trip will make the animal more comfortable.

Travel By Bus or Train

Most states prohibit animals on buses, and recent rules now prohibit animals on trains.  Exceptions are generally made for seeing-eye dogs accompanying blind persons.  Inquire in advance with your local carriers.

Camping with Pets

Trouble can arise quickly in country settings.  Skunks, porcupines, snakes, and other creatures can bite or injure your pet.  Therefore, keep your animal in sight and on a leash.  Be considerate of other campers.

Post-Trip Examination

A health examination following your trip should be considered to determine if any internal parasites (roundworms, hookworms, heartworms) or external parasites (ticks, fleas) were picked up in contaminated exercise or wooded areas.