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PrintProtecting Your Pet: Traveling With Pets
More people are vacationing with their pets today. But, there are tips we must know before traveling with our four footed friends. Health Specialist Marilyn Mitzel shows us in protecting your pet.
(WSVN) -- Every year, more than 10 million Americans travel with pets.
80 percent - take the dog.
15 percent - carry a kitty.
Marte Shriver, Art and Gert's Mom: "We've been to Boston, We've been all over South Florida, North Florida, Alabama, Georgia and Tennessee."
Whether by car - plane or train - first make sure they are good travelers like Art and Gerty.
Dr. Steven Paul, Wiles Road Animal Hospital: "Most animals do well. There is always particular animals that may not travel and it can become a horrendous trip."
Traveling animals should be calm - friendly and easily controlled.
Dr. Paul: "The best thing to do is see how it goes on small trips. Some may need a simple tranquilizer or sometimes an antihistamine or anti-motion sickness."
Try it first to see how they react. Vaccines must be current.
Dr Paul: "Certain countries require certain things and you do need health certificates whether your are traveling interstate or out of the country."
Airlines require reservations - have weight and carrying restrictions.
Small pets may fit under your seat - avoiding cargo - which can be life threatening.
Proper I.D is a must.
Dr. Paul: "It's always a possibility that your pet may get lost on a travel. Their tags have our home phone."
Bentley - are you ready to go traveling -make sure you bring enough food - treats - medication if necessary - water - their bed and favorite toy.
Look for pet friendly hotels. A growing number offer dog walking and pet room service.
Marte Shriver, Art and Gert's Mom: "AAA puts out a great booklet that gives you the hotels and listings."
A few precautions make for many happy returns.
Marte Shriver, Art and Gert's Mom: "They're our children -- They go everywhere. They go to weddings funerals graduations. They're not left behind for anything."
If traveling stresses out your pet - they maybe happier left behind.
FOR MORE INFORMATION:
Contact: mmitzel@wsvn.com