Traveling with your pet, whether it is a summer vacation or any weekend get away, requires careful planning.

First of all, it is important to know your pet’s disposition outside of their normal environment. We all assume that pets will be social and well behaved wherever they go, and this may not be the case. Before you travel, take your dog to the dog park and observe their behavior. Are they good with other dogs, both male and female, and those larger and smaller than themselves? Also, does your dog respond to your commands while in the presence of other dogs or humans they don’t know? 

If you plan to travel to an urban area, take your pet to a nearby city and expose them to the rules of waiting at the corner before crossing the street. Keep your pet close to you when you walk so as not to intrude on others. It is hard to understand, but there are many folks who are not “pet friendly.” Have a drink or lunch in an outdoor cafe and train your pet to rest at your feet. It is easier to do this alone with your pet than when the family is with you.

 If you are traveling by car, be sure and get your pet familiar with the car beforehand. Take pleasurable trips with your pet before your vacation so that your pet will associate the car with fun. Be sure and confine your pet in the car in a carrier, crate, or harness. Even at low speeds, a sudden brake can cause the dog to hurt itself or others in the car. And, NEVER leave your pet in the car alone. In the summer, the temperature in a car can heat up to deadly temperatures in a matter of minutes.

If you are traveling by air, you will need an IATA compliant pet crate. This crate meets the specifications set for airline cargo travel. You can find them here: http://www.pettravelstore.com/store-pet-airline-cargo-crates.html. Leave the crate door open in your home in a familiar place to your pet. Put a toy or blanket in the crate and a treat so that your pet will explore and not feel trapped. Over several weeks, you will be surprised at how your pet will enjoy the crate. That way, it is not a strange place when it comes time to fly.

All of these tips should be considered far in advance of traveling with your pet. Being aware and practicing these techniques will help insure that your trip with your pet is fun for both of you.