Travel Safety Tips for Your Pet in the Summer

While it might sound like a fun idea to have the whole family on vacation, including your pets, some trips are better suited for animals than others. Depending on where and how you plan to travel, you will need to decide whether you should bring your beloved furry family member along or leave your cat or dog at home either with a pet-sitter or with a reputable boarding facility. 

Summer Travel Safety Tips from our Veterinarian

The following summer pet travel safety tips from our veterinarian at Trinity Animal Hospital will help you make the decision and, if you decide to travel with your pet, keep him or her safe along the way. 

1. By Car - The safest way to travel with pets is by car. To keep pets safe on road trips, secure them inside and outside your vehicle. Pets should be kept in the backseat, away from airbags, and restrained in a buckled carrier or with a specially designed seatbelt. Cats should always travel in pet carriers, as they generally do not like riding in vehicles and tend to roam around the car when left out. Ensure your pet's collar and leash are secure and that their ID tags are up to date. Never leave a pet alone in the car or unattended outside and keep plenty of water and food available. 

2. By Plane - Flying is generally not safe for pets. If they can be left home, they should. If you must fly with a pet, it's best for the pet to ride in the cabin in a carrier, rather than in the cargo hold. 

3. Ship or Train - Pets are generally not permitted on cruises or on trains. Check with the travel company prior to departure.

4. Destinations - When traveling with pets, check with your veterinarian before leaving to ensure pets are healthy and have all of the vaccinations they need to visit your planned destination. 

Where have you traveled with your pets on vacation? Please share your experience in the comments below.