Five Tips for Holiday Travel with Your Pet

If your holiday celebration plans include traveling to visit family or friends, start preparing your pet now. Five tips help you enjoy your trip and keep your pet safe and healthy.

1. Take a Test Drive

Unless your pet is a seasoned traveler, he may become nervous when placed in a carrier or while riding in the car. During the weeks before your trip, prepare your pet to travel. Place him in the carrier every day and take test car rides to the park, animal hospital or pet store. Additionally, place your pet's favorite blanket in the crate for comfort as you travel.

2. Update Vaccinations

Keeping your pet safe and healthy during holiday travels starts with a trip to the vet. Update vaccinations, apply flea and tick medicine and receive a well-pet checkup to prepare your pet for the trip.

3. Secure Your Pet

In the car, your pet should be buckled into a pet carrier or harness in the back seat. Never allow your pet to hang its head outside the window because it could sustain ear or lung damage. You will also need to remove your pet from the car when you stop to eat so that it does not become too cold.

4. Stop Frequently

Your furry friend will need to use the bathroom, take a drink and exercise regularly. Schedule breaks in your travel schedule to care for your pet. Keep him on a leash and clean up any messes to be courteous to others.

5. Carry I.D.

Accidents can happen while you travel, so include the address and phone number of your destination on your pet's collar. You will also want to carry medical papers for your pet in case he becomes sick and needs to visit an animal hospital for treatment.

Traveling with your pet during the holiday enriches your vacation. Keep your pet safe and healthy this season. What do you do to prepare your pet for holiday travel?