by Tina Loflin

Created on: November 01, 2008   Last Updated: November 24, 2008

Traveling with a pet can be rewarding in many ways, not the least of which is the fact that animals do mourn for their 'people' when they leave them for a journey, especially one longer than a week. There is a necessity for protecting your pet while traveling, and preparation is key for pets to travel safely.

First of all, take your pet to the family vet. A thorough examination and review of vaccines(especialy for traveling abroad) is vital. Documentation must be provided by your vet to ensure that your pet is vaccinated and has the documents to prove it. Distemper, rabies, feline leukemia(if you've a cat)-vaccines for any communicable disease are essential. A prescription for some dog or cat tranquilizer would be good if your pet has to travel in the cargo area. If your pet is small, it would ease fears for your pet.

Buy a good pet carrier, and some old blankets that have your scent on them; small throws or pieces of flannel would be good to have on hand for small pet carriers. A portable water and food basin, and a supply or your pet's food(dry might be better if your pet prefers it, and it is more portable) would be good to have. Feeding your pet during the journey: a light meal would be better, especially if flight is involved, for there is no telling how an animal might react to turbulence.

Have on hand a pet passport' with all the documents your pet must have: vaccinations, allergies, age, and other important information, not to mention ownership papers, license, and the like. These will facilitate travel for your pet.

On the day of the trip, if you have a dog, take him or her out for a walk in the morning before a flight, and lightly feed him or her, as well as give water. if the dog is small enough to go wi h you on the plane, walk him or her at the airport, just before boarding. If he or she is larger, and will go in the cargo area, do the same. Give written instruction for the care of your pet-and pet insurance would not be a bad idea.

Give plenty of love(as well as a dose of pet tranquilizer) before and after the flight. Taking all these steps will ensure that worry is kept to a minimum, and the trip can then be enjoyed by all.

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