Traveling with a Pet

A lot of people like traveling with their family … so what does that make Fido? If you’re willing to go the extra mile for your four-legged friend, they just might get as much out of the vacation as some boring old human.

The first thing you need to research is the regulations of where you’re going. Many islands — Britain, Japan, Hawaii — have strict rules about outside pets involving quarantines and other unpleasantness. However, a surprisingly large number of countries are welcoming to tourists of any species.

Almost always, you’ll need paperwork from a vet if you’re flying with an animal. These are typically documents stating the animal is up-to-date with their vaccines (a rabies booster is usually required within six months of flying), plus a Certificate of Health that assures the animal is fit to fly, generally issued the same week of the flight.

If you think the seats in coach are cramped, try spending a trans-Atlantic flight in a carriage barely bigger than you are. Flying can be uncomfortable for pets, to say the least, which is why a mild sedative is recommended. These can be picked up at the vet when you’re getting the paperwork, and if you’re lucky they can be found in liquid form. If you’re unlucky and having trouble getting your pet to take a pill, try fitting it inside a small ball of cheese.

Lastly, be courteous to your other travelers. If your cat or dog has an accident, take care of it. That shameful one-minute walk with the carrier to the bathroom is a lot better than shameful hours of sitting in stench and pretending you’re not.