The holiday season means lots of fun and festivities. It also often includes packing up the family for a road trip or plane ride. Thanksgiving and Christmas are popular times for holiday travel. In fact, during Christmas 5 out of 6 pet owners bring their dog along on holiday road trips[1].
Many families want to include their dog or cat in their holiday plans, and luckily there are ways to make holiday travel safer and less stressful for you and your pets. If you’re thinking about bringing your dog or cat on your next trip, here are some helpful travel tips.
A holiday road trip is easier than flying with a pet, but you’ll want to take the following precautions to ensure everyone enjoys the car ride.
Traveling with your cat or dog on a plane takes preparation. It’s important you’re aware of the availability and rules for pet air travel, which can be different depending on which airline you’re traveling with. Due to the stress of airline travel on pets, it’s recommended to avoid it if you can, especially if your dog needs to go in the cargo area. If you must fly with your pet, make sure to make arrangements well in advance, as there is a limit on the number of pets that can be in the cabin and even in the cargo hold.
Traveling with cats on a plane. Not all airlines allow cats to travel in the cabin of the plane, so it’s important to check with your airline. Also, note the carrier size measurements, so you can ensure their carrier fits under the seat. When going through the security checkpoint, you’ll need to carry your cat through, so it’s a good idea to have your cat on a harness and leash to keep them secure.
Traveling with dogs on a plane. If you have a dog that’s too large for in-cabin travel, consider whether you want them to fly in the cargo hold. Many pets are successfully transported this way every year, but there are reports of animals being injured, dying, or becoming lost. Brachycephalic, or “flat-faced”, breeds of dogs (such as Pekinese, French Bulldogs, and Pugs) should never fly in a plane’s cargo hold, as they are more prone to heart issues, breathing problems, and heatstroke.
If you’re packing up and heading out of town for the holidays, with some preparation and planning your pet can travel safely with you and join in on the holiday fun. Happy Holidays!
Important Safety Information: Use CERENIA Tablets for acute vomiting in dogs 2 months and older, and for prevention of vomiting due to motion sickness in dogs 4 months and older. Safe use has not been evaluated in cats and dogs with gastrointestinal obstruction, or those that have ingested toxins. Use with caution in dogs with hepatic dysfunction. In people, topical exposure may elicit localized allergic skin reactions, and repeated or prolonged exposure may lead to skin sensitization. See full Prescribing Information.
ZPC-00442