Trains, Car, boats, and… dogs! Whether they are short outings, family outings, or even extended vacations, more and more dog owners are taking their pets along. Do you, however, know the safest, least demanding method of dog transportation?
Nearly 45 percent of animal lovers travel with their dogs every year, mostly by automobile, according to the 2019-2020 National Owners of dogs Survey conducted by the American Pet Products Association (APPA), up from 19 percent a decade earlier. Pet owners frequently transport their animals on trains and on flights, even if driving a car is still by far the most common option.
It’s not as easy as just throwing your dog in the back of a car and taking to the road, rails, or air.
Discover the General Tip Traveling with Dog
Put your pet’s needs ahead of your own enjoyment whether you’re traveling by car, aircraft, or train, according to experts.
According to Jennie Lane, RVT, ACAAB, owner of Synergy Animal Behavior in Germantown, Tennessee, it’s important to think about “if the pet is healthy and is likely to enjoy the experience.”
“Pet owners should definitely have their pet examined by a veterinarian and discuss with the veterinarian whether or not the pet is physically and mentally prepared for the planned excursion,” the expert says.
Using Crates
A crate is necessary for air travel and is a great method to keep your dog secure in the vehicle. Additionally, it can prevent your pet from causing trouble at your host’s house or in a motel. The majority of pet supply stores sell crates. Your dog is prepared to go when you fill the crate you choose with canine necessities including a cozy pad, your dog’s favorite toy, and a dog water bottle.
When buying a dog crate, pay attention to the following qualities:
Sufficient for the dog to stand, turn, and lie down.
Strong, with grips and handles, and with no protrusions within
With an absorbent covering, the bottom is leak-proof.
Opposite-side ventilation with external rims or knobs to prevent airflow obstructions
“Live Animal” label with arrows pointing up, owner’s name, address, and contact information
Identification
If your dog gets lost while you’re on the road, making sure she can be recognized will increase the probability that they’ll be located. The following precautions should be taken:
A sturdy collar and leash should be provided for your dog. Identification tags with the dog’s rabies vaccination records, your name, your home phone number, and the dog’s name should all be fastened to the collar. Consider purchasing a second identification tag with the address and phone number of your destination if you anticipate being gone for a longer amount of time.
Consider using a microchip as a permanent method of identification (see AKC Reunite).
Traveling with Dog by Car: Best Tip
It will be easier for your dog to become used to the automobile if you let them ride along with you when you drive around the driveway and then go on short trips.
To avoid motion sickness, never let your dog ride in the car on an empty stomach. But make sure they have access to lots of water at all times.
Keep the airflow in your automobile excellent. Ensure the dog’s crate has access to fresh air if it is being kept inside.
To ensure your dog’s safety, think about getting them a dog seat belt or car seat.
Avoid letting your dog travel with its head poking out of an open window. Damage to the eyes may result from this.
Never allow your dog to ride in an open vehicle back. This is incredibly risky and may result in serious injury or death.
Take regular rest stops and bathroom breaks. Don’t forget to pick up after your dog.
Everyone finds car drives dull, so teach your kids not to taunt or bother the dog while driving.
Follow our summer safety advice for dogs and never, ever leave your dog unattended in a closed car, especially in the heat. Choose a family member to stay with the dog if you have to leave the car.
Traveling with Dog by Air
Plan a visit to your veterinarian in advance of any air travel. The airline must receive a health certification no later than 10 days before departure. Certificates of rabies and immunization are also necessary. Your dog should be weaned and at least 8 weeks old.
Airlines make it quite clear that it is the owner’s duty to confirm the dog’s fitness for flight and good health. Whether your dog should be sedated for the journey, ask your doctor whether it is the best option. Check the temperature at the departure and arrival points of the flight as well, since either location may be too hot or cold for your dog.
Under some circumstances, shipping live animals is prohibited by federal rules. To find out the precise requirements governing pet travel, see the U.S. Department of Transportation’s pet travel guidelines and the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s regulations.
Keep in mind that each airline has unique variances in terms of rules and offerings. For instance, the airline can forbid you from using your box if it doesn’t adhere to their specifications. However, if your dog’s kennel or carrier can fit below the seat in front of you, they could let it in the passenger compartment.
You must also reserve a space for your dog when making your bookings. There are limits on how many animals are allowed on each flight. On a first-come, first-served basis, they are accepted.
Traveling by Train, Bus or Boat
You could be dissatisfied if you intend to go by bus or rail. There is a $25 charge and only small dogs under 20 pounds are allowed on Amtrak trains. On Greyhound and other interstate bus operators’ buses, dogs are not permitted. (Service canines are accepted.) Each local train and bus company has its own set of rules.
If you’re going on a cruise, you could do better. Before making the decision to bring your dog on a vacation with you, you should, however, review the policies of the Cruise Company or ship you will be sailing on.
Guidelines for Traveling with a Dog
Schedule bathroom breaks. Teach your dog to pee themselves on different surfaces other than only grass before you leave the house! It will be less uncomfortable and less likely that you will get into an accident when driving or otherwise if you can use the restroom on varied surfaces, such as concrete, mulch, and gravel. Bring a leash and plenty of poop bags for cleanup afterwards.
Bring toys and games. Give your dog a few new toys as well as a few of their old favorites to prevent boredom. To keep them engaged, you might wish to include a toy that looks like a puzzle.
Bring food and water with you. Consult your veterinarian about providing your dog just bottled water while you’re away from home to avoid stomach discomfort. And, instead of their typical hefty bowls, purchase foldable ones and give them a week or so to get used to using them before you depart.
Lodging
Find out in advance whether hotels or motels let dogs before you travel to your destination or along your route. Many don’t accept dogs or may have limitations on their size.
Respect the other guests, employees, and property if your dog is permitted to remain at the hotel.
Make sure your dog is as quiet as you can.
Keep an eye on the dog at all times. Many dogs will bark or damage belongings if left unattended in an unfamiliar location.
Ask the staff where you should take your dog for a stroll, and always pick up after your dog. Do not strew debris everywhere.
Keep in mind that if the hotel administration has a terrible experience with one canine visitor, they could decide to stop allowing dogs altogether. Please respect others’ space and leave the premises tidy.
Pet-proof the room or vacation property. Make sure your dog can safely explore the area before giving them free reign of their temporary home. Make sure that any electrical wires are out of your dog’s reach and that there are no dangerous items under furniture or on the floor that were left by previous tenants.
Remember that you are on vacation. A calm owner often has a peaceful pet, even when traveling might be stressful. Because animals pick up on our tension, if you’re tense and anxious, your dog can be as well. Keep in mind that some dogs dislike traveling, and your dog might want to stay at home with a dog sitter.
DISCLAIMER
This article is only for informational purposes, and no fee or registration is attached to it.