ASPCA KEEP VACATIONING PETS SAFE WITH OUR AIR & ROAD TRAVEL TIPS

Your summer vacation’s almost here—and for some pet parents, traveling’s no fun if the four-legged members of the family can’t come along. But without thoughtful preparation, going on the road or flying can be highly stressful, both for you and your animal companions. Before you embark on your journey, the ASPCA would like to offer a few helpful hints.

* Please visit your veterinarian before traveling to make sure your pet is up to date on vaccinations and has all the medications he needs. Also ask about parasites or other health risks native to your destination.
* Your pet should always wear a collar and ID tag clearly stating an address or phone number where you can be reached—that includes cell phone number and destination info.
* Always bring plenty of plastic jugs filled with bottled or tap water from home. Drinking water she’s not used to could upset your pet’s stomach. If flying, freeze water in a bowl the night before. It won’t spill during loading and it’ll melt by the time she’s thirsty.
* Fly your pet in a USDA-approved shipping crate large enough for her to comfortably stand, sit and turn around in. Write “Live Animal” in large letters on at least two sides of the crate, and draw arrows indicating the crate’s upright position. (Of course you should ask the airline if small animals can fly with you in the cabin.)
* If driving, never leave your pet in a parked automobile. On a hot day, even with the windows open, a stationary vehicle can become a furnace in no time, and heatstroke can develop.

To ensure your trip is a good one, please read our complete air and road travel tips. Wanna get off to a safe and stylish start? Check out the ASPCA’s special line of travel gear for pets. Bon voyage!