Pinterest Getty It’s always hard to be away from your pet — so that’s why many owners opt to bring their furry friends with them when they travel. But hitting the road with an animal isn’t as easy as buying another plane ticket or making room in the car: As the travel-heavy holiday season approaches, it’s important to have a plan for your pet. If you want to bring your animal on your festive adventures instead of getting a sitter, Dr. Sarah Nold, an on-staff veterinarian for Trupanion, has a few helpful safety tips for you and your furry friend. What is the safest way to fly with your pet? The safest way to fly is to fly prepared for any situation. Make sure your carrier is the proper size for your pet and durable. Call the airline to determine if your carrier/pet is approved for riding in the cabin or if they will have to go in cargo. Keep in mind there may be maximum weight and minimum age requirements for traveling, these are usually enforced for the safety of your pet. If your pet is traveling in cargo, ask the airline what they allow in the carrier with your pet. Most airlines require a USDA health certificate issued by a veterinarian, so ask the airline how many days before travel the certificate must be issued. Make sure your pet is comfortable in the carrier. If your pet has never been in a carrier, your veterinarian can give suggestions to make the transition easier. Getting your pet used to the carrier should ideally be done over a span of weeks and months, so prepare ahead of time. And don’t forget to have your pet microchipped to help with identification. How can you keep your pet calm and comfortable during air travel? If your pet is in the cabin with you, you can put a familiar toy or blanket in the carrier with them. You also have the option of using a sedative/anti-anxiety medication, if approved by your veterinarian. Again, plan on this in advance so you can try a dose of the medication with your pet before travel, so if they don’t respond appropriately, there is time to ask your veterinarian about other options. Your options are more limited if your pet is in cargo, as there is no one there to monitor your pet and sedatives can affect their ability to regulate their body temperature. Whether they are with you in the cabin or in cargo, make sure there is absorbent material such as puppy pads or newspaper in the bottom of the carrier (ideally with spares on hand!). Don’t feed your pet within two hours of departure, as this can upset their stomach. What are common problems people run into with a pet at the airport? What is the easiest ways to avoid them? If you are traveling with your pet in cargo, ideally book a nonstop flight to minimize time on the tarmac. If you are […]
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