Traveling Rules for Rover and You

As summer comes, most Americans embark on their annual travel routine to visit friends and family, and a lot of them will be bringing not just the kids but also their pets. It is estimated that up to 70 percent of pet owners vacation or travel with their pets. There are hotels and places you can stay in that are pet-friendly, which make it a bit easier, but you still need to do some basic planning yourself.

Should I Bring My Pet?
While it's tempting to want to bring your pet with you, some animals aren't suited to travel. Before heading out on the road with your four-legged friend, ask yourself the following questions:

• Is traveling safe for my pet?
This means you have to make the call if your pet is fit enough to travel.

• Does my pet like to travel?
If your dog runs and hides when you open the car door, consider hiring a pet sitter and leaving him at home.

• Is this trip 'pet-appropriate'?
Some destinations just are not pet-friendly.

After going through the questions, and you feel the trip will be good for your pet, or if the trip is a must because you are relocating, it's important to plan and minimize the risk to your 'best friend'.

• Preparation
If your pet's only experience in a car has been a trip to the vet, you will want to acclimate him to riding in the car a few weeks before your trip. You can start by taking him on short trips first, for example, when you shop for groceries and when you do your errands. When you get home from these short trips, don't forget to give him a treat , then start lengthening the next trips.

• Road Safety
If you travel with your kids, you always fasten their seatbelts. Do the same for your pets. It's a must for you to restrain your pet as you travel. A variety of restraints are available that offer added mobility and provide an option to the traditional metal travel crate. Think safety harnesses that can attach to any seatbelt, or even safety gates that will allow your pet some mobility in their own space, as you travel. Sturdy, well ventilated crates are a must for smaller animals, such as cats, that normally don't travel as much as dogs.

If you roll using one of those big RV's, you do have more freedom and flexibility, but you still need to be aware of the basics. Make sure all items, such as food or medicine, are properly stowed and secured inside your RV. To avoid injury to loose animals during sudden stops and turns, block off small areas with baby gates. No matter what type of vehicle you drive, you will need to stop every few hours for a pet pit stop. And always remember to put the leash on your pet before you open the vehicle's doors.

• Bring a Pet Travel Kit
Don't forget to pack a separate bag for your animal. Make sure you bring his favorite food to avoid upset stomachs, and to bring some water too since the water in other places may not suit him at all . For cats, it's a good idea to bring a disposable litter box. It should come in handy for those emergencies or overnight stops. A pet first-aid kit is a must, in case of accidents. And a favorite toy or pillow will give your animal a sense of familiarity. And last but not least, bring your pet's health certificate especially if you are traveling across state lines, as most states might sometimes ask for it.

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