What You Need to Know About Traveling with Pets

Approximately 68 percent of U.S households own a pet (84.6 million homes) according to the 2017-2018 APPA Pet Owners Survey. And boy, do we love all those pets.

We dress them in Halloween costumes, create their own Instagram accounts and spend over $60 billion a year caring for them. So, it makes sense that we want to bring them along for vacation. After all, they’re family!

Your dog or cat will most likely be thrilled to go on a trip with you, but don’t forget that animals have very specific needs that must be met. Here’s a quick roundup of details to consider when planning your trip with your furry friend:

1. Document the details

Make sure you have all your ducks (possibly literally) in a row when it comes to traveling with your pet. Always keep rabies vaccination records and a current proof of health on hand if you’re crossing any state or country borders. Also, save your vet’s number in your phone and be sure to pack enough medicine for the length of your trip.

2. Plan for safe transport

Most airlines allow cats and dogs, but whether they ride in the cargo hold or under your seat depends on the weight, breed and size restrictions for each individual airline. There will also be an additional fee. You’ll also want to purchase a USDA-approved shipping crate and mark it with clear identifiers, including your name, phone number and destination. Make sure the crate is the correct size (your pet should be able to stand, sit and turn around) and fill it with absorbent materials in case of accidents.

If you’re driving your own vehicle, keep pets safe in a well-ventilated carrier or crate rather than roaming freely. Be sure to secure the container with a seatbelt to prevent sliding or injury during an abrupt stop. Or, you can keep pets buckled up with a harness. Also, never leave your pet alone in a parked vehicle. On hot days, pets can quickly become overheated while in the winter they can suffer from hypothermia in the cold car.

3. Be a smart packer

Pack Kitty or Fido their own traveling kit with all the essentials, including a water bowl, food, leash, waste scoop, medication and first aid equipment. You should also bring along their favorite blanket or toy in case of traveling anxiety. If you’re traveling by car, pack some bottled water to avoid an upset stomach from an unfamiliar water source.

4. Make time for exercise

Animals need to stretch their legs, just like people, if not more so. When traveling, be sure to schedule stops not just to refuel the car, but also to let your animal move and stretch its body. Bring a favorite toy they can play with, to stimulate and energize them during these brief breaks.

5. Book pet-friendly accommodations

Where to stay has never been easier, thanks to a nearly exponential growth of hotels accommodating the many people now choosing to travel with their pets. Gone are the days of hair covered beds and smelly rooms. Pet friendly hotels and accommodations are clean, modern and fit every budget.

Some hotels are so pet friendly, they even offer pet gifts and treats upon check in while others feature gated, off leash areas for dogs to run around. Again, be aware there might be additional fees for having a pet.

Planning a trip to Montana or Idaho with a four-legged companion? Consider staying at a nearby, pet-friendly Town Pump Hotels property.

Town Pump Hotels is home to 13 hotels and an RV Park and Resort equipped with full hook-ups, Wi-Fi, laundry facilities and more. It was even named one of the 10 highest rated TripAdvisor GreenLeaders in the U.S. So whether you’re looking to stay in the city or in the great outdoors, you’ll find comfortable lodging at a Town Pump hotel in Montana or Idaho.

To start planning your next trip, visit TownPumpHotels.com or call 1-800-442-4667.