Be sure to do your homework well in advance of buying a ticket.

When planning a trip within the United States check that your airline allows pets, and understand what services they offer. Each airline has different rules and service offerings, so it’s important that your airline fits the needs of your pet.

For detailed information about flying with your pet in the United States please visit Pettravel.com.

Hotels that accept pets as guests can be found at Officialpethotels.com or pick up a copy of Traveling With Your Pet: The AAA PetBook – With the latest scoop on safe and enjoyable travel with pets. The annually updated book lists more than 13,000 pet-friendly AAA Approved lodgings and campgrounds, pet-friendly attractions and national public lands, dog parks, and animal clinics. Pick one up at your local bookstore or order one at Amazon.com.

If you decide to drive, careful preparations are key to an enjoyable trip with your pet. Make sure to bring medications, food, water, a leash, and bedding. Plan on making stops about every 3 to 4 hours to give your pet water and to take a walk to stretch his or her legs.

Remember to never leave your pet in a car unattended. On hot days closed cars reach lethal temperatures in minutes. On cold days hypothermia is a risk. Make sure you have made the proper plans for your trip so that both you and your pet can enjoy the ride.

Traveling internationally with your pet is feasible, but it is important to know that there are different requirements and lead times depending on the country in which you are traveling. This can be a time-consuming process and require advance preparation prior to travel. Call the consulate of your destination at least 6 months before your trip to obtain all the necessary health exams, vaccines, and certifications that are required for travel.

Our veterinarians are USDA accredited and will be able to assist you in the required health examination of your pet and the preparation of the required paperwork.

Regulations and health certificate forms and information for many countries can be found at: http://www.aphis.usda.gov/regulations/vs/iregs/animals/

If you have additional questions please call our office and ask to speak with one of our doctors regarding your pet's travel.