28-05-2025
Traveling With Pets: Tips To Make It Easy
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Traveling with pets is not always easy. Small animal veterinarian Dr. Liza Cahn, a consultant for Embrace Pet Insurance, gives tips on how to make the process easier. For both you and your pet.
However you plan to travel with your pet, be it by car, train, plain or bus, it's extremely important to prepare ahead of time.
There are generally lots of options for finding pet-friendly accomodations. There are several websites dedicated to this. Many hotels and airbnbs also allow pets, although it's important to fully read and understand their pet policy ahead of time, as they may require additional fees or for your pet to be current on specific vaccinations. When in doubt, get in touch directly with the accommodation.
While all the tips above apply to flying with pets, a few other considerations include scheduling a direct flight whenever possible and traveling at times that are less busy. It is safest for your pet to fly in the cabin with you, however, there are strict size requirements. The next best option is shipping your pet as manifest cargo. This is safer than sending them as checked baggage, due to stricter handling procedures and temperature control. Always research the airline's policy well ahead of travel. They have requirements ranging from the size and type of crate that is acceptable to what you can put in the crate with your animal. Ideally, you want to include a few comfort items, such as familiar toys and bedding, a small litter box for cats, as well as plenty of fresh water.
