Traveling with Dogs

by Luella May

In today’s world, dogs are considered part of the family and more and more families are including their dogs when travelling. People who travel with dogs should realize that their pets can be very sensitive to change. It is important to make efforts to minimize stress and confusion as well as take safety precautions to make the trip a smooth, happy and safe one.

The most comfortable way to travel with a dog is by motor vehicle. This form of transportation gives the best opportunity to effectively tend to their needs and give them needed attention. However, not all dogs enjoy riding in vehicles. While some dogs jump at the chance to go for a car ride, others detest it. Sometimes car travel is not possible and air travel becomes the only alternative. If we know what to expect and prepare correctly, traveling with a dog can be a calm and enjoyable experience. It is important to do the homework necessary to insure the comfort and security of the cherished companion.

It may be necessary to prepare the dog for the upcoming trip. Here are some suggestions which may help:

*Introduce the dog to the carrier in ample time before the trip. Make it as comfortable as possible, including any favorite and comforting toys. Depending on the dog, the door can either be left open to provide convenient access at the dog’s discretion, or the dog can be placed in the carrier for short periods of time, gradually increasing it to larger intervals. Keep in mind, the carrier should be well ventilated and large enough for the dog to sit, stand, and lie down comfortably.

*If the dog is not accustomed to riding in a car, go for short rides, making sure to secure the carrier with a seatbelt.

*When the departure date arrives, feed your dog at least three hours before time to leave. Keep in mind that a dog should not be fed while a vehicle is moving.

*Whether traveling by car or airline, always make sure that your dog has the proper identification. Attach a tag to your dog’s collar that includes the name, home address, home phone, and cell phone.

*If traveling by air, the first step is to check flight restrictions. It is important to find out which airlines accept dogs and select the ones that will have the most comfortable and secure environment. If it becomes necessary for the dog to travel in the cargo area, it is important to make sure that the area in which the dog will be placed is temperature controlled and that the dog will receive adequate food and water.

*Dogs pick up on their owners’ emotional states. If you are anxious, most likely, your dog will be anxious as well. It is important to plan all aspects of your trip in a way that will insure your own peace of mind.

Homeopathic and herbal remedies can go a long way in calming a pet during stressful times. Passiflora incarnata, a passion flower extract, is an excellent choice for anxious pets. This herbal remedy is effective in soothing frightened dogs without making them drowsy.

Other remedies with calming properties include flower essences, lavender oil, and melatonin.

Accupressure is another effective way of calming a dog. For more information as to how to correctly apply it, please see:

The Many Benefits of Acupressure for Dogs and Other Pets

As a final note, dog owners should also realize that unrestrained dogs present danger to themselves and other passengers. For more information on properly restraining dogs and other travel safety trips, see:

Unrestrained Dogs in Cars Pose Risks to Themselves and Others

Sources:

http://www.essortment.com/all/dogstravelairl_rjea.htm
http://newsblogs.chicagotribune.com/the-problem-solver/2010/06/tips-for-traveling-with-pets-this-summer.html
http://www.independenttraveler.com/resources/article.cfm?AID=87&category=21
http://www.tbyil.com/Dog_Car_Safety.htm