Smart Tips For Traveling With Pets

Can’t bear to part with your pet while on vacation? Whether going camping, to the beach or to the mountains, a number of places do allow pets. 

Here are some practical suggestions on how to safely travel with your four-legged companion:

--Check with your veterinarian to ensure your pet is healthy enough for travel.

--Find out if you need a health certificate to cross state lines.

--Check ahead of time with hotels, campgrounds and airlines in regard to pet restrictions. Many hotels allow pets, but different policies often apply. The number of pets per room, weight restrictions, and extra pet fees vary from one place to the next.

--Make sure your small pet has a crate. Large dogs can use a travel harness with a tether system.

--Bring extra water, bedding or blankets and enough food to last the entire trip. 

--Feed your pet lightly on the day of travel -- about one-third of his normal amount of food.

--Make sure your pet is collared with ID tags. It’s also a good idea to microchip your animal just in case he gets lost. The local Southwest Communities Animal Shelter offers microchipping fo $20.

--Do not leave your pet in a hot car – even a few minutes at high temperatures can be fatal.

--Make frequent potty and stretch breaks for your pet.

Don’t have a travel companion? Check out this week’s list of adoptable pets to share your life with. These and many more are available at Southwest Communities Animal Shelter in Wildomar.