Traveling with your dog can be quite easy and comfortable if you plan and arrange everything ahead. Here we have given you some tips that should help you travel with your dog safely.
By Car
- If you plan to travel by car, then the best way to travel with your dog would be in a crate. Also, ensure that the crate is anchored properly to the car. Alternatively, you can also try out doggie seat belts or restraints. The main idea is that your dog should not be free to roam around the car and be a hazard to the driver or his/her self.
- We do see people traveling with their pets in the front seat of the car. But this is extremely unsafe especially if the airbag deploys. Hence always ensure that while traveling with your dog by car, he/she needs to be seated in the back seat.
- Also never allow your dog to stick their head out of the window. Just like you might need stops, your dog would need to take breaks too. This could be for the sake of exercise, movement or even just nature’s call.
- With this in mind, always make sure that your dog has an ID, tag as well as leash. Also please never leave your dog alone in the car. It might be just a quick dash for you, but not safe for your dog. Cars can heat up pretty fast during summers which can be harmful to your dog.
By Flight
- If you plan to travel with your dog by plane then the first thing you need to do is check with your airline about their rules and regulations. If you have a pug, bulldog, Pekingese or any dog with ‘pushed in’ faces, air travel is not really a good idea as they are quite vulnerable to heat strokes or oxygen deprivation. For such dogs, it would be better you leave them behind in a kennel or with a pet sitter.
- While traveling with your dog, you need to check with your airline if your dog can be in the cabin. A small dog is allowed by most airlines provided they meet their size regulations. You might need to check if the airline has any specific health or immunization needs and also check with your vet before any travel with your dog. Some airlines might also need special type of dog carriers.
- If your dog needs to travel in the cargo hold, you will need to find out details accordingly. You also need to be aware of the corresponding dangers while travelling in a cargo hold. Do your homework and arrange accordingly.
- Try and take direct flights as mistakes can sometimes happen during airport transfers. Also if the airline allows it, try to stay with your dog while he/she is being loaded and unloaded. Also, ensure that the attendants and captain are informed about your dog so that they take any precautions needed.
By Cruise
Most cruise liners do not welcome dogs. However, there are some that might allow dogs in private cabins. You will need to check with their policies.
We hope our above tips help you travel with your dog safely and that you both have an enjoyable trip.