Pet Safety Travel Tips

Whether you’re packing up to go across country or just a few miles away, if your four-legged family members are in tow there are some safety measures every pet owner needs to have in place.

“Many people think it is cute when they see a dog with its head out the window going 65 miles an hour down the highway, but in reality, it is quite dangerous,” says pet expert and certified trainer, Aaron Hill.  “When it comes to travelling with a pet, owners need to take the same safety precautions as they do with children.”

More people travel with their pets these days, but most still don’t buckle them up.  Not only is an unrestrained pet a distraction for the driver, but it can also turn into a danger for passengers if an accident occurs.  According to safety experts, a 25-pound dog turns into a 1200 pound projectile in a 35-mile an hour crash. 

Hill strongly encourages pet owners to buckle up their pets and offers these tips for getting where you’re going safely.

TIPS FOR SAFE PET TRAVEL

Road Trips

• Plan ahead, make a lot of rest stops, and take plenty of water as well as a pet first aid kit. 
• Purchase a harness seatbelt for your pooch or use a carrier for really small dogs or cats.  Animals should never be loose in your vehicle while it is motion.
• Never leave your pet in a car unattended.  Dogs and cats can overheat quickly because they have a higher respiratory rate and need air flow and moderate temperatures.
• Be prepared, dogs can get carsick just like people so prepare for the worst ahead of time.

Flying

• Pet Airways accommodates dogs and cats.  It flies to select cities and provides concierge service for your pet including potty breaks within two hours of the flight and pet lounges.   The airline also secures pet carriers on the plane and checks on the animal every 15 minutes!
• For Domestic Air Travel, be sure to check the airlines weight and size restrictions for cabin flying before heading to the airport.  Additionally, if your pet will be flying in the cargo bay, ask about climate restrictions. 

Hotels

• Pet friendly hotels are everywhere now, with some specifically catering to your pet with special food, massages, room amenities, etc.
• For regular hotels, book a room on the ground floor so you have easy access to grass for walks and potty breaks. 
• Request a room at the end of hallway as to avoid disturbing other hotel guests. 

No matter what your mode of travel is, it is always a good idea to bring extra leashes, food and comfort items from home to make sure your pet enjoys a little R & R as much as you do.

Aaron Hill is a certified professional animal trainer and the owner of Pets in the City (http://www.petsinthecity.com/) a premiere Dog Walking / Pet-sitting/ Training service in Los Angeles.  He is certified in pet first-aid and CPR and is a member of Pet-Sitters International.