Travel With Your Dog

However, make sure he has plenty of water at all times.Avoid car sickness by letting your dog travel on an empty stomach.Some airlines will not transport animals when it is extremely hot or cold.The QE2 luxury cruiser, which sails from New York to England/France, provides special lodging and free meals for your dog.Never, ever leave your dog unattended in a closed vehicle, particularly in the summer.

Here are some trip tips to make traveling with your dog enjoyable.If the dog is in a crate, make sure that fresh air can flow into the crate.Health and Safety Health Checks.Car rides are boring for everyone, so instruct your children not to tease or annoy the dog in the car.However, you should check the policies of the cruise line or ship you will be traveling on before making plans to take your dog on a cruise with you.Traveling by Car Get your dog used to the car by letting him sit in it with you without leaving the driveway, and then going for short rides.Bring a recent picture of your dog along with you.You may fare better if you're taking a cruise.It can also keep your pet from getting into trouble in a hotel or at your host's home.Many do not, or have size or breed restrictions.Stock the crate with a comfortable mat, your dog's favorite toy, and a water bottle, and your dog is ready to go.By Train, Bus and Boat If you plan to travel by train or bus, you may be disappointed.You should call for information and make arrangements well in advance of your trip.Identification In the event that your dog gets away from you on your trip, you can increase the chances of recovery by making sure he can be properly identified: Make sure your dog has a sturdy leash and collar.See Summer Safety Tips for more information.Keep your dog as quiet as possible.Never let your dog ride in the back of an open truck.Do not let your dog ride with his head sticking out of an open window.Lodging Find out in advance which hotels or motels at your destination or on your route allow dogs.Bring your dog to the vet's for a check up before going on an extended trip.If you must leave the car, designate a member of the family to stay with the dog.Do not leave the dog unattended.To keep your dog healthy as you travel, bring along a supply of his regular food and some local, or bottled, water.This is extremely dangerous and can lead to severe injuries or death.Look for these features when purchasing: Large enough to allow the dog to stand, turn and lie down.Crates are available from most pet supply stores.This can lead to eye injuries.Do not leave any mess behind.Taking your dog along can make the family vacation more fun for everyone, if you plan carefully.The collar should have identification tags with the dog's name, your name, and your home phone number, as well as proof of rabies shots.Be considerate of others and leave your room and the grounds in good condition.Service dogs are permitted.Keep the car well-ventilated.Dogs must be in an airline-approved crate when transported as cargo.Stop frequently for exercise and potty breaks.All airlines require health certifications and proof of vaccinations.By Plane Each airline has its own set of rules for canine air travel.Live Animal" label, arrows upright, with owner's name, address and phone number.Dogs are not permitted on Amtrak trains or on buses operated by Greyhound and other interstate bus companies.Ask the management where you should walk your dog, and pick up after him.Remember that one bad experience with a dog guest may prompt the hotel management to refuse to allow any dogs.Make sure all his vaccinations are up to date; shot records with you.Ventilation on opposing sides, with exterior rims or knobs to prevent blocked airflow.Local rail and bus companies have their own policies.Be sure to clean up after your dog.Strong, with handles and grips, and free of interior protrusions.Consider a permanent form of identification, such as a microchip (see CAR).Be sure to bring any medications he needs.Health certifications are required for airline travel.Leak-proof bottom covered with absorbent material.If your dog is allowed to stay at a hotel, respect other guests, staff and the property.Small dogs may ride under the seat in a crate or carrier.

Many dogs will bark or destroy property if left alone in a strange place.Crates A crate is an excellent way to keep your dog safe in the car, and is required for airline travel.