Do you have plans to travel this holiday season? Will your pets travel with you? If you have decided it's best to bring your pet along on your holiday travels, follow these suggestions from the pet experts at RunLoyal, the Humane Society, and AARP for a safe and low-stress trip for you and your pets.

Are you traveling by car?

The safest way for your dog to travel in a car is in a crate anchored to the vehicle using a seat belt or other secure means. Dog restraints or seat belts prevent your dog from roaming around the car and being a distraction to the driver. 

If you are traveling by car with your cat - Most cats aren't comfortable traveling in cars, so for their safety and yours, keep them in a carrier. It's important to restrain these carriers in the car, so they don't bounce around and hurt your cat. Do this by securing a seat belt around the front of the carrier.

The best seating arrangements - Keep your pet in a carrier in the car's back seat because if an airbag deploys while your pet is in the passenger seat (even in a crate), it might be injured. 

Heads up! - Pets who stick their heads out the window of a moving car can be injured by debris or made sick by having cold air forced into their lungs. And remember, never transport a pet in the back of an open truck.

Take breaks along the way -  Stop frequently to allow your pet to exercise and eliminate. But never permit your pet to leave the car without a collar, ID tag, and leash.

Bring along a human companion - If possible, share the driving and pet caretaking duties with a friend or family member. You'll be able to get food or use the facilities at rest stops knowing that someone you trust is keeping a close eye on your pets.

Are you traveling by plane?

While planning your trip – schedule a preflight vet visit to be sure your pet is a good candidate for air travel. Airlines often require a health certificate from your vet, so make sure you check out the airlines' pet policies, including age and breed restrictions and safety records. Consider having your pet microchipped. For more information about the major airlines' pet requirements, visit BringFido.com and PetFriendlyTravel.com.  Veterinarians.org for good suggestions about pet-friendly airlines.

Ready Set Go – Be sure to understand the rabies rules for dogs. If you're reentering the United States from a high-risk country for rabies transmission, ensure your dog's rabies vaccination certificate is current. Dogs vaccinated in the United States by a licensed veterinarian can reenter the country from high-risk locations if they meet these CDC rules: They are at least six months old and have a microchip and a valid U.S.-issued rabies vaccination certificate. Before traveling abroad, check pet regulations with the country's consulate or embassy. 

Book your tickets early – Choose a direct flight to eliminate travel stress for you and your pet. Another reason to book early is that airlines typically limit the number of pet carriers in the cabin (the carrier must fit below the seat in front of you). So make sure there's room for your pet before you buy your ticket.

Create a travel bag for your pet – Bring copies of your pet's vaccination records and your vet's contact information. Make sure your pet is wearing an ID tag. Pack extra collars, leashes, potty pads, pickup bags, food, and treats, and don't forget the water.

Final recommendations – Feed your pet about 4 hours before the trip. Be sure to provide preflight exercises. A tired pet is more likely to sleep during the flight. Start exercising the day before, and don't tranquilize your pet. Most veterinarians oppose tranquilizing pets, and some airlines require a signed statement confirming that you did not sedate your pet.

If you have clients, family, or friends traveling with their pets this holiday season, share this critical information to help keep the holidays safe and happy for fur babies and their human parents!

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