5 Dos and Don'ts for Traveling with Pets

From the beach to Grandma’s house, summer vacations are always more fun with our four-legged friends can come with us. However, a long road trip or plane flight can be stressful and taxing for pets. Below, our Troutdale veterinarian shares five key dos and don’ts for making summer pet travel as easy as possible.

Summer Pet Wellness Tips for Happy Travel Times

DO update your pet’s vaccinations.
Airlines, pet-friendly hotels, and boarding facilities will require a pet wellness certificate from your Troutdale veterinarian. This certificate confirms that your pet is up to date on all critical vaccinations, including rabies, parvo, and bordetella.

DON’T leave pets unattended in a parked car.
Even on a comfortable summer day, the temperature inside a parked car can skyrocket in just minutes. It may be 85 degrees outside, but temperatures inside the car can easily reach over 100 – putting your pet at risk for heat stroke and possible death.

DO microchip your pet.
Tags are not just for luggage! A microchip is a permanent ID implanted in your pet. Should your pet become lost or separated while traveling, a veterinary hospital or animal shelter will scan for your pet’s microchip; it’s the best way to reunite lost pets with their owners. If your pet is not microchipped, talk to our Troutdale veterinarian about microchipping your pet prior to your trip.

DON’T let your pet keep his head out the window.
Your dog may love riding with his head out the window, but on highways and even local roads, this can be a dangerous habit. Flying debris can easily harm your dog. 

DO use restraint.
Just as humans need seatbelts, pets need a restraint system to stay safe on long road trips. Choose a pet carrier with enough room for your pet to stand, turn around and lie down comfortably. As an alternative to carriers, our veterinary hospital also recommends a canine restraining harness that snaps into the seatbelt. Dogs can still sit and lie down, but they will be secure in the event of an accident.

Will you be traveling with your pet this summer?