Pets traveling by vehicle
If you plan on transporting your pets by
car, you will make decisions about arrangements
based on the duration of the trip. Don’t
feed or water your pet for three hours before
departure to reduce the risk of motion sickness.
If your pet will travel in a crate or cage
for the trip, be sure that the carrier is
large enough for your animal to be comfortable.
Your dog or cat should be able to stand and
turn around easily, and the container should
also be well ventilated. Put a favorite toy
in the crate, as well as some familiar bedding
or blanket.
When making stops along the way, keep your
pet on a leash. During this time of confusion,
your animal may become excited and try to
run off. Additionally, you should never leave
your pet unattended in a very hot or very
cold car, as they can become sick very quickly
under these conditions.
If your pet is unaccustomed to car travel,
start making trips together for short distances.
Cats often panic in cars, and may or may
not eventually calm down. If your pet is
a nervous traveler, check with your veterinarian
to see about tranquilizers or sedatives for
the car trip. If these are prescribed, follow
the veterinarian’s instructions for
timing the doses.
If your trip requires an overnight stay,
be sure to make reservations at a hotel that
allows pets. Also pack sufficient food and
medications for your pet during this period
of travel.