Holiday Pet Travel Tips | Essentials PetCare

The holidays are fast approaching, and that means it is time to make travel plans. Whether you are heading home for the holidays or planning a winter vacation, you can get some peace of mind that your pets are safe when you use these travel tips:

Traveling with Pets

If you plan to travel with your pet, make sure to confirm in advance that your stay includes pet friendly areas. Many hotel chains are now offering pet friendly rooms, but some will have additional charges or restrictions on pet breed or weight. You can also visit http://www.bringfido.com/ to look for pet friendly accommodations and attractions. If you plan to stay with relatives, make sure to ask if your pet is welcome in advance. Aunt Ethel may follow your dog’s Instagram page, but she may not want him sitting on her new couch.

Pet Sitters

Pet sitters make it easy for you to leave your pets at home while you travel. Sitters are especially great for multiple-cat households or if you have a nervous pet. Make sure to interview your potential pet sitter in advance and confirm references. Reputable pet sitters should be licensed and insured. Your pet sitter should have your contact information while you are away and also copy of your itinerary. You should also have details in writing of what to do in case of emergency.

Pet Sitters International maintains an online directory of pet sitters and the site also has a list of questions to ask a potential sitter.

Boarding Pets

Boarding facilities are a good choice for pet owners with dogs−especially those with high energy levels that need more exercise. Online reviews and recommendations from your friends may be helpful in determining which facility is best for your pet.

Veterinary experts recommend that dogs visiting boarding kennels have complete vaccination series, including bordetella and dog flu vaccines. These need to be given at least 2 weeks in advance to provide full protection, and your pet may need boosters to be fully vaccinated as well, so plan accordingly.

At Essentials PetCare, our best value vaccine packages offer the essential vaccines most boarding facilities require, and you can obtain them 7 days a week, without an appointment. If your pet is current on vaccines, you can obtain your records 24/7 on our pet-parent portal.

For more pet travel tips, click here.