Traveling with your pet can be a lot of fun, but also a lot of work. You have to find pet friendly hotels, and often pay extra fees for your pet to travel and then stay at a hotel. You are probably going to have to travel with multiple dog/cat toys, treats, leash, carrier, fresh water, food, a dog bed or favorite blanket, and more items your cat or dog will need away from home.

Here are some pet travel tips to keep in mind for the safety of your pet and other travellers:

1. Prior to traveling
Before you travel, talk to your vet and find out if they have any recommendations for you on your trip. For instance, your pet may require certain vaccinations or vet paperwork (i.e., vaccination records, health certificate, or a pet passport. You may also consider:

• Getting your pet professionally bathed and cut prior to traveling.
• Obtain all necessary paperwork (i.e, a health certificate or vaccination records)
• Get your pet a checkup and update any medicines they may need.
• Is your pet microchipped? This may be useful if they get lost while travelling.
• Ensure your dog or cat has a collar and tag with updated info.

2. Airplane travel for pets
There are a lot of different things that you need to be aware of when it comes to flying with your pet. First, research the airline policy on traveling with a pet, including how to go through security. For instance, most airlines will allow you to take a cat or small dog in the cabin for an additional fee, however, not all do. You must also Alert the airline to your travel plans far in advance to travelling. Plus you may need the following for the flight:

• A pet carrier, bag, leash, and/or bedding.
• Food and water bowls, and food and treats.
• Calming products for cats and dogs (i.e., Feliway spray or calming chews).

3. Pet-friendly hotels
If your dog is prone to loud barking and strange environments, you need to take that in to consideration when seeking out a hotel. For instance, you can ask the hotel to not put you near the elevator, stairs, or ice machine. Also be aware of the following:

• Even if the website says they accept pets, make sure to call the hotel directly.
• Be prepared for extra pet fees in your budget.
• Make sure to get a room close to an exit to get your dog outside quickly.
• Research 24hr vets within hotel vicinity, just in case something happens.

4. Pets as hotel guests
Do everything to make your pet comfortable during their stay. For instance, if your dog likes a certain type of food and comfy bed, bring these items on your trip. To help your dog or cat to feel as relaxed as possible during travel:

• If you leave the room make sure you dog or cat is in their carrier.
• Bring pee pads and make sure your dog knows how to use them before accidents happen.
• Put the “Do Not Disturb” sign on the door so your door isn’t getting knocked on.
• If you leave your dog alone in the room, alert the front desk.
• At the hotel, keep your dog on leash always.
• Pick up after your dog and bring bags for their waste.