Yes Dear, You Can Take Fido with You

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     This summer season, millions of Americans will be hitting the roads to spend time with friends and family, vacationing in cities and national parks, and many will be bringing their companion animals with them. It turns out that more than 70 percent of us go on vacation or travel with our pets on a regular basis. There are hotels and places you can stay in that are pet-friendly, which make it a bit easier, but you still need to do some basic planning yourself.

Should I Bring My Pet?
Remember that some pets are not too comfortable with traveling. Before heading out on the road with your four-legged friend, ask yourself the following questions:

?Is it safe if I bring my pet with me?
Honestly evaluate your animal's health and his ability to travel.

?Is my pet used to traveling?
If your dog runs and hides when you open the car door, consider hiring a pet sitter and leaving him at home.

?Is this trip 'pet-appropriate'?
Some destinations just are not pet-friendly.

If, after answering these questions, you feel that the trip is in your pet's best interest, or if it is necessary because you are moving, taking the proper precautions can minimize the risk to your 'best friend'.

?Preparation
If your pet's only experience in a car has been a trip to the vet, you will want to acclimate him to riding in the car a few weeks before your trip. Start with short trips, such as 5 or 10 minute drives. And always remember to end the trip with a positive reward, such as a special treat or fun activity. Slowly lengthen the trips to 30 minutes or one hour.

?Road Safety
If you travel with your kids, you always fasten their seatbelts. Do the same for your pets. It's a must for you to restrain your pet as you travel. A variety of restraints are available that offer added mobility and provide an option to the traditional metal travel crate. Think safety harnesses that can attach to any seatbelt, or even safety gates that will allow your pet some mobility in their own space, as you travel. If you do need crates for example, for the smaller animals such as your cats, make sure they are well ventilated.

If you roll using one of those big RV's, you do have more freedom and flexibility, but you still need to be aware of the basics. Make sure all items, such as food or medicine, are properly stowed and secured inside your RV. To avoid injury to loose animals during sudden stops and turns, block off small areas with baby gates. No matter what type of vehicle you drive, you will need to stop every few hours for a pet pit stop. Also make sure your pets have their leash as you open your vehicle's doors when you go for these pit stops.

?Travel Kit
Don't forget to pack a separate bag for your animal. Make sure you bring his favorite food to avoid upset stomachs, and to bring some water too since the water in other places may not suit him at all . Cats can generally travel up to 10 hours without having to use a litterbox, but it never hurts to bring along a disposable litterbox for emergencies or overnight stops. A pet first-aid kit is a must, in case of accidents. Also bring a favorite toy or object that you feel will make your pet more relaxed as he travels to new surroundings. And last but not least, bring your pet's health certificate especially if you are traveling across state lines, as most states might sometimes ask for it.