Wet Nose Guide Blog

For most dog-owners, a pet is a friend and constant companion, and thus during a vacation or other extended trip the temptation is strong to bring one’s dog along for the ride. Traveling with dogs is certainly not taboo in the United States, but it is by no means an easy endeavor, so if you plan to bring your pet both the traveling conditions and the mode of transportation must be carefully considered.

Traveling by air is perhaps one of the most convenient ways to get from place to place, but for dogs it is also one of the most dangerous. Most airlines only allow larger dogs to travel in the baggage compartment, which is an uncomfortable living situation to say the least, but since dogs are simply treated as baggage they are subject to all the same potential problems: dropped luggage, incorrect connections, long delays and exposure to heat or cold are all threats to a living creature. Most airlines do not take dogs in the baggage compartment during summer months, due to the risk of heat stroke, and brachycephalic dogs with short noses, such as pugs or bulldogs, should not travel as baggage at all, as they have difficulty breathing at high altitudes and are more susceptible to heat.

Ultimately, the only way for an owner to ensure the safety of a pet is to carry him into the cabin, a practice that is usually allowed for dogs under 20 pounds who can fit under a seat. Note that airlines will charge $50-$300 for each pet brought on board a flight. Pet-specific airlines such as Pet Airways are also an alternative, which allow dogs to travel in the cabin of a pet-only airliner, but such services only cover select cities and, once again, are expensive.

Trains and buses may seem like a cheaper alternative to flying with a pet, but ultimately such modes of transportation are usually off-limits to dogs. The majority of train or bus lines simply do not allow pets on board, with the exception of assistance animals.

The most convenient and flexible means of traveling with a dog is by car, but even when taking your pet on a road trip the proper precautions must be addressed. It is important to make sure that the dog is comfortable with the idea of riding in a car, and taking short drives prior to a longer trip can dramatically reduce anxiety. Anxiety medication can also be requested of a vet if a nervous pet absolutely must come along. Care should also be taken that pets can be accommodated overnight, as many motels do not all dogs in rooms.

When deciding whether or not to travel with a canine companion, the last and most important rule is to think of the dog first. Dog-sitters and pet hotels are legitimate alternatives if a safe and comfortable journey cannot be ensured for a pet. If you do decide to bring a dog along, be sure to equip her with proper identification, and to bring along essential amenities (medication, treats, a leash, water, toys, etc.). Taking these necessary precautions may mean the difference between a miserable trip and a happy vacation, and go a long way to assure the health and happiness of your furry friend.

Tags: dog friendly accommodations, holiday travel, pet travel, traveling with dogs

This entry was posted on Friday, November 6th, 2009 at 10:37 am and is filed under Doggie Advice, Travel. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.