Tips for safe travel with your pets

Travelling with your pet requires careful attention to detail and planning well-in-advance. Most pets are not very comfortable with traveling, whether it is by car or flight. So, if it possible it is best to leave your pet at home. Arrange for a pet sitter or a stay at a boarding kennel or shelter, if you cannot find friends or family to take over the duties.

However, we have a few tips that will help you, if you have decided to travel with your pet.

Travelling with your Pet by car:

• Ensure you use a carrier for your pet. You may not like the idea of caging your pet, but it is by far the safest way of traveling with your pet in a car. The crate should be anchored to the vehicle using a seatbelt or any other secure means.
• Keep your pet in the back seat of the car. It is less of a distraction and it will keep your pet safer in case of a crash.
• Roll up the windows of the car. You should never allow your pet to stick their heads out of the window.
• Consider frequent rest stops for your pet. You have to take a rest stop, every hour or so, to allow your pet to walk around freely. Do not leave your pet unattended or without a leash and ID tag.
• Do not leave your pet alone in a car. Take it along wherever you go or else leave it with a known person. Even on a relatively comfortable day, the temperatures inside your car can soar without the air-conditioning.

Travelling with your pet by air:

• Travelling with your pet by air is not a recommended option. Air travel can be particularly dangerous for animals with “pushed in” faces or short nasal passages such as bulldogs, pugs, and Persian cats.
• If your pet must travel in the cargo hold, you can increase the chances of a safe flight for your pet by following these tips.
• If your pet is traveling in the cargo hold, them make sure you make necessary arrangements for the same. Opt for direct flights to avoid delays and long transit periods. If possible, travel on the same flight as your pet. If the captain knows that pets are on board, they may take special precautions, so it is a good idea to notify the captain that your pet is traveling in the cargo hold. Fit your pet with a collar and mark his carrier carefully.
• If you are considering tranquilizing your pet for the journey, you must consult your vet.
• Avoid feeding your pet for four to six hours before the flight. However, you can give them small amounts of water.
• If possible, choose the cabin seat. Most airlines will allow you to take a cat or small dog in the cabin for an additional fee. Call the airline well in advance and ensure that you follow their guidelines for smooth travel.

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