For many people, traveling with pets is more than a luxury – it’s a necessity. Some consider pets part of the family and, as such, they deserve special consideration when making travel plans.
The most common way for pets to travel is by car or plane. The travel method you choose will depend on factors such as the type of pet, their weight, and their temperament while traveling.
After determining the most comfortable travel method for your pet, you will likely need to plan carefully to secure a pet-friendly hotel room.
There are many special factors to consider when traveling with your pet, so keep reading for more tips on having a safe, stress-free trip!
Booking Pet-Friendly Hotels
Taking your dog or cat along for a family trip can be fun for everyone, but it requires careful planning. Pet-friendly hotels tend to fill up fast, so be sure to book your reservation as soon as possible.
Check with the hotel about any pet restrictions or specific rules to ensure a smooth check-in on check-in day.
Vet Check-Ups and Health Preparations
It’s a great idea to take your pet for a vet check-up before leaving on a trip. Make sure that all vaccinations are up to date, and ask for copies of the records to keep with you.
It’s also important for pets to wear their rabies tags at all times, so make sure you have an up-to-date tag fastened securely on their collar.
Pack plenty of food, treats, and water, along with a travel-friendly food and water bowl for frequent stops.
Tips for Traveling with Your Pets
Car Travel Tips for Pets
Remember that pets should always be kept in the back seat of a vehicle: Front-seat airbags can be deadly to pets, so the back seat is a much safer choice.
Also, even if your dog enjoys the wind in its face, make sure its head stays inside the vehicle at all times.
Another quick tip: never leave your pets alone in the car on hot days. Remember that even on an 80-degree day, the temperature inside a car can skyrocket to over 100 degrees in just ten minutes!
During a car trip, cats should always be confined in carriers for their own safety, and dogs should never be free to roam around the backseat.
Loose dogs are very dangerous to themselves and you; in the event of an accident, an 80-pound dog could really do some damage!
The safest way for dogs to travel in vehicles is in a crate securely fastened with a seatbelt. If this isn’t an option, or if your dog becomes extremely nervous in crates, you can find bucket-like pet seats with secure buckles for smaller dogs.
For larger dogs with crate anxiety, a zipline-like contraption is a great choice – this fastens to the inside roof of your car and hooks onto your dog’s harness so the dog can walk freely from window to window in the backseat while still being secure.
Air Travel Tips for Pets
Animal health specialists have determined that air travel is not a safe choice for pets, especially breeds with flattened (or “brachycephalic”) faces like bulldogs, pugs, Persian cats, etc., because they have the most difficulty breathing.
The cargo area of airplanes is often susceptible to extreme temperatures, so if you must fly, try to bring your pet into the cabin. Small dogs or cats are usually allowed on board (for a fee), but you will need to call the airline in advance.
If your pet must fly in the cargo area, there are several precautions you can take to make their experience as safe as possible. It’s also a great idea to get pet and travel insurance before your trip.
Pet Insurance and Travel Coverage
Pet insurance can save thousands of dollars in surprise medical bills if your pet were to get sick or injured while on the road. There are hundreds of pet insurance companies, so choosing the right one can be daunting.
Remember to ask yourself these important questions while deciding on a plan:
Is the company highly rated online? Has it been around for a while?
Does the policy cover all conditions: hereditary, chronic, and congenital?
Is there a time limit on treatment?
Is customer service fast and friendly?
Can you choose your own veterinarian anywhere in the United States?
Recommended Trip Plans with Pet Coverage
If you want your animal companion to be as well-protected as you are, Trawick International’s Pathway Premier plan has the coverage you want.
It will reimburse you for the pet’s return home, medical expenses, and kennel costs on trip delays. In addition, the death of a pet is considered a valid reason for trip cancellation or interruption under this plan.
They also offer pet assistance services both before and during your trip.
Pathway Premier
Comprehensive Travel Protection and Travel Medical Insurance
Available to U.S. residents traveling for up to 90 days within the U.S. and internationally
Optional CFAR, IFAR, Rental Car Damage, and Adventure Sports coverage
iTravelInsured Travel LX from IMG includes trip cancellation and interruption coverage if your dog, cat, or service animal becomes sick, injured, or dies, plus benefits for extended boarding costs if your return is delayed.
iTravelInsured Trip Cancellation Insurance
Three tiers of trip protection for U.S. citizens and residents traveling overseas
Includes $500,000 Emergency Medical and $1,000,000 Medical Evacuation coverage
Optional Cancel for Any Reason (CFAR) upgrade available
Traveling with pets can be a fun, memorable experience, but it is also a big responsibility. It’s important to carefully plan your trip so that your dog or cat has an easy, stress-free journey.
A quick visit with your vet and a reservation at a pet-friendly hotel will go a long way toward making your trip as smooth as possible.
Remember, a life with pets is fun and full of surprises! It’s up to you to be as prepared as possible.
Joe Cronin, President of ICI, is a leading expert in international health, life, and travel insurance. An MBA and founder of multiple global businesses, he helps expatriates and travelers access trusted, comprehensive insurance solutions worldwide.
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