Travelling with Your Pet: A Checklist for a Worry-Free Holiday

It's great to include pets in your holiday plans as long as it isn't a last-minute thought. Here are a few tips from veteran travellers to make your trip enjoyable for everyone.

Some pets such as birds, reptiles, amphibians, rabbits and Vietnamese pot-bellied pigs may not suitable for the kind of travelling that you're doing. In this case, you can arrange for kenneling or pet-sitting.

Whether taking your pet along or leaving him at home, start planning well in advance. A minimum of six months is suggested in most situations.

Travelling With Your Pet
Car Travel

• Some pets do not travel well in the car. But they may become accustomed to car travel if introduced to it gradually. Try several short trips spread out over several weeks. Increase the time of travel of each trip. Expect lots of meowing or whining at first.
• Drooling and rapid, repeated swallowing are sure signs of an upset stomach. One way to make a pet feel a little less queasy is to fast him at least four hours before travelling, or ask your veterinarian about medication to reduce upsets.
• To minimize the danger to you and your pets, consider having your pet ride safely and comfortably in a pet carrier. They come in all sizes and will also be useful to you at your destination.
• For long trips, plan to make a few stops to let pets (and humans) stretch, relieve themselves and have a drink. A cat is most comfortable when he has his own litter pan so make room for it in your car. (Don't forget small bags and a poop scoop!)
• Don't let anyone open your car door until your pet is secured on a harness or leash. This will prevent accidental escapes into oncoming traffic as well as clashes with other animals.
• Hanging his head out the window may be fun and exciting for your canine companion. However, dust, bugs and other irritants can cause problems for eyes and ears. Open windows could also tempt an uneasy cat to escape even while the vehicle is moving. Keep windows closed enough to prevent cats from getting hurt.
• Allowing a pet to travel in the back of an uncovered truck is extremely dangerous. It is even against the law in the City of Calgary. Don't do it! Have the pet in the cab of the truck with you or safely under a canopy.

Plane Travel

• Check with the airlines before you book your flights. Find out what their requirements and conditions are. Will there be stopovers? Some airlines will permit owners to have their cats or small dogs on board with them in carriers that conveniently fit under the seat. Otherwise, pets travel in the cargo compartment.
• Will your pet need to be tranquillized for the journey? Ask your veterinarian.

Other Forms of Travel

• For travel by bus, boat or train, check the regulations. Pets may not be allowed.

Accommodations: Is Your Pet Welcome?

• Friendships may suffer when you arrive with your unexpected pet(s). Check with your hosts beforehand.
• There are an increasing amount of hotels and motels throughout North America that permit, and even cater to pets. Consult your travel agent or accommodations directories and plan your stops ahead of time to avoid problems.

Camping

• Not all campsites allow pets. Check ahead especially if you plan to stay in a private campsite. If pets are allowed, be prepared to have them on a leash at all times and to clean up after them - cats included.
• Watch out for encounters with wildlife. Never leave your pet unattended in a campsite.
• Be a good neighbour and follow the rules of the campsite.

General Tips

• No matter where you travel or take your pet, the experience will be less traumatic if you take along his favourite toy and bed, as well as his food and water dishes.
• Pack a good supply of your pet's food and bring along a jug or two of water from home since changes can irritate your pet's stomach. Gradually mix the local water with the water from home. Don't allow your pet to drink from natural water sources such as streams and ponds due to the risk of exposure to bacteria and parasites.
• Put an identification tag on your pet's harness or collar. You can have tags made the include the name, address and phone number of someone who can be reached when you're away. Take along several clear photos of your pet in case you have to search for him.
• It is now possible for dogs to get canine heartworm disease almost anywhere in North America. A simple blood test and some preventative medication is all that's required to prevent this life-threatening disease. Bring along your pet's up-to-date vaccination records.
• You will not likely be able to leave your pet in a hotel room or a tent or a trailer while you tour around. Consider kennelling your pet for a day at your destination. Check kennels out carefully. Never leave your pet in a parked car, especially if the weather is hot. He could get sick and even die.
• Some provinces, states or countries have special quarantine and entry requirements so check these out ahead of time with appropriate government officials.

Leaving Your Pet At Home
Ask a Friend to Look After Your Pet

• Choose someone who is reliable and conscientious and who is liked by your pet. Make the imposition as painless as possible by being prepared well in advance and by making sure the person has everything necessary.

Hire A Professional Pet Sitter

• Again, choose a pet sitter who is reliable and conscientious. The person should be bonded and be able to provide good references.
• Have a pet sitter visit you and your pet before you leave so that everyone feels comfortable.

Provide the Following Information to Your Pet Sitter

• Written directions for feeding, exercise and general care.
• If any special medications are required, be sure to provide the directions.
• Be sure that your pet has identification so that it can be traced back to its home.
• Provide a written, detailed description of your pet. Include tag numbers, tattoo numbers, and any other distinguishing features. Inform the pet sitter of where to look for your pet should he become lost as well as how to prevent such an occurrence.

Boarding Your Pet

• The Calgary Humane Society does not board animals. To find a reputable kennel or cattery, begin by asking friends or your veterinarian to recommend one.
• Then, visit the kennel or cattery and check for the following:
  - roominess and cleanliness
  - heating and ventilation
  - indoor/ outdoor runs
  - individual or communal facilities
  - employee treatment of animals
  - feeding schedule and food type
  - available veterinary services
  If the kennel does not meet to your satisfaction, find another one. A kennel which will not allow your inspection should not even be considered.

Don't take unnecessary chances with your pet. Consider carefully ahead of time what your best options are. The Calgary Humane Society receives pets each summer who were abandoned, lost or surrendered because of lack of regard for their care during holidays. Call us for more information at 250-7722. We're here to help.