Make sure your pets travel well

The holiday season is here . For many who have families far away, this is the time they pack up and get out of Washington to visit relatives.

If you are gearing up to travel and have pets at home, you’re probably considering their options, perhaps a dog sitter, cat spa or kennel. If you just can’t bear leaving your furry friends behind, you’re in luck!  With the following tips, you and your cuddly companions can be on your way — via car, plane or train — in safety and comfort.

• Pre-travel honesty. Before you consider making Fido your backseat driver or your wing man, consider whether he will feel safer en route or at home. Some pets simply don’t like to travel, while others are more versatile.

• Hit the rails. If you’re traveling by train, plan ahead. Make sure pets are allowed on the train and find out what rules apply. Also, ensure your pet can stay with you in the passenger compartment, versus needing to be placed in cargo.

• Comfort your four-legged friends in flight. Before you book your flight, find out if carrier allows pets in the cabin or if they will need to ride in cargo. Research weight requirements ahead of time, and check the airline’s website for additional regulations and make sure the cargo hold is climate-controlled. Keep in mind that just because the airline allows the dog to be shipped as cargo or checked baggage doesn’t mean it is actually safe. Short-snouted breeds such as pugs and bulldogs are at an increased risk of dying and account for roughly half the purebred dog deaths on airplanes. It is also recommended to never fly kittens and puppies. More information can be found at http://www.pettravel.com/passports_airlinetrtips.cfm 

• Pack their bags with care.  Pack a travel bag for your pet, just as you do for yourself and your family. Consider items like food bowls, leashes, treats and favorite toys, as well as immunization records and identification tags.

• Put the pedal to the metal. If you have a choice, travel by car. This way you can stop as frequently as necessary for potty stops and feedings.

• Avoid accidents. Regardless of your mode of travel, be cognizant of the duration of your journey. Gauge how much your pet eats and drinks according to the length of the trip. If you’re traveling by train, find out in advance if there are stops when you and your pet can get out and get relief.

At A&M Insurance, we hope you and your pets have a comfortable, safe journey wherever and whenever you travel.