Tips for Traveling with Your Pet This Summer

[by Jennifer Greer]  Summer is well upon us, and for many of us, that means hitting the open road and exploring what the season has in store. But let’s not forget about our four-legged friends – they deserve to be included in our adventures whenever possible. Whether you’re traveling out of town, across the country, or planning a local staycation, it’s essential to have a well-thought-out plan when bringing your dog along. Traveling with a pet can be challenging, but this article will provide you with easy-to-remember tips to make the journey smoother.

Plan Ahead:

When traveling with your pet, knowing your route and identifying safe spots for bathroom breaks and rest stops is crucial. Giving your pup enough time to relax and not rushing during the drive will help ensure a stress-free journey.

• If you’re planning to travel by air with your pet, call the airline ahead of time to find out the specific requirements for boarding your dog and when and where you’ll be reunited with them. Researching their websites will also provide valuable information.
• A recent Department of Transportation regulation, effective January 11, states that airlines are no longer required to treat emotional support animals as service animals. Many airlines, such as Delta, United, Alaska, JetBlue, and American, no longer allow emotional support animals on their flights. Service dogs, on the other hand, are still protected to fly under the ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act).
• Before arriving at your destination, ensure that your lodging, whether campgrounds or hotels, allows pets on the premises.

Pack The Essentials:

• Be sure to bring along an extra collar and leash for your dog. A harness is also a handy addition to your pup’s suitcase.
• Always carry extra food and water, especially if you’re traveling by vehicle.
• Pack doggy shoes to protect your dog’s paws from burning on hot pavement during scorching days (DailyPaws).
• Don’t forget a doggy first aid kit. You can find great options online, like this one.

Safety Tips:

• Always keep your dog leashed or harnessed when stopping at rest areas for potty breaks. The loud highway noises and passing vehicles can be frightening, and you never know when your pup might get spooked enough to bolt.
• Never leave your pet unattended in a vehicle. Even on overcast warm days, temperatures inside a car can become unbearably hot within minutes, leading to an emergency situation (BetterVet).

Once You’ve Arrived At Your Destination:

• Give your dog the chance to take in their new surroundings slowly and at their own pace.
• Designate a small, comfortable area with their food, water, and favorite toy or treat, providing them a safe retreat if they feel overwhelmed.

By following these simple tips, you can make this summer a memorable and enjoyable experience for both you and your four-legged friend! Happy travels from everyone here at Healing Companions!

Sources:

1. BetterVet. “Is It Too Hot to Leave My Dog in the Car?”
2. DailyPaws. “Burned Dog Paws: How to Prevent Paw Pad Burns.”
3. CNN Travel. “Airlines Say Emotional Support Animals Are No Longer Allowed on Flights.”
4. GoPetFriendly.com. “Summer Pet Travel Tips: Keep Your Pup Safe, Happy, and Healthy.”
5. Washington Post. “Questions About Flying With Your Pet in the U.S., Answered.”
6. ADA National Network. “Flying with Service Animals.”