It’s hard to believe that the holiday season is nearly upon us. So, no time like the present to discuss some pointers to make holiday travel with your pet as seamless as possible.
First, a major thing to prepare for is the potential need for a veterinary health certificate, which is often required by airlines for pet travel. This is signed by a veterinarian before a pet is allowed to board, and in some cases required, for interstate travel of companion animals. In addition to declaring a pet appears healthy and free of communicable diseases, these certificates also provide vaccination information. Remember these rules and regulations apply to all animals, meaning that emotional support or service animals are expected to follow these guidelines.
Be sure to check with your airline about companion animal travel requirements to avoid any hiccups. Airlines and often trains tend to have regulations regarding the size of your pets carrier. As a general rule of thumb, they should be large enough for your pet to comfortably stand up and turn around in and they should be able to fit in the space under the seat in front of you on a place. Again, this is something that you should look into before you travel, don’t wait until you get to the airport to learn that your carrier doesn’t comply!
Another major consideration for travel, whether is be by car, plane or train, is the potential need for anxiolytics or sedation. If you know or are suspicious that your pet has travel anxiety, give yourself ample time to discuss medications that could be prescribed to help keep your pet calm and relaxed. Similarly, some animals, more often dogs than cats, experience motion sickness, so this is a good discussion to have with your veterinary practitioner. There are anti-nausea medications that can help prevent any unwanted GI upset during a trip.
Finally, be sure to travel with: a copy of your pet’s vaccine records, any medications that he or she might need and an appropriate supply of food.
Ask The Vet is a weekly series by Dr. Devon B. Smith, a Baltimore veterinarian who is an associate at Madonna Veterinary Clinic in White Hall. Send your pet questions or photos via the forms below.
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