Most National Parks have strict regulations restricting pets. Check with them ahead of time. Your pet may not be able to walk with you but you can still spend some happy time together. Before you bring Fido or Fluffy on your trip make sure that they are physically up to it. Take her to the vet first and be sure that she is in sound health.

Make sure she has all her necessary vaccinations along with a health certificate to bring along with you on your trip. Be sure she has a collar with ID tag that contains your name and phone number. If she gets lost somehow, that could be the only way she gets back home.

A pet that is not well behaved can be a problem and may not be suited to travel. She will be in strange surroundings and you don’t want her to scratch or bite out of fear and confusion. If you must leave your pet home please be sure that she is well cared for. Professional pet sitters, kennels, friends or family are options available to you. Leave explicit instructions for care and the phone number of your vet.

Most airlines will accommodate pet travel but they all have their own rules. Dogs and cats are usually ok but other pets may present a problem.

Your pet can travel either in the passenger cabin or in the cargo hold. Pet travel in the cargo hold can be a little rough and ventilation is not the best. Your vet should be able to help you evaluate if Fido or Fluffy is up to it.

Well behaved pets that are able to travel in an appropriate sized container may be brought with you on the plane. They will be treated as carry on luggage and will have to ride under your seat. Pet travel in your car is a much more straight forward arrangement for all. Some pets can’t handle it though and it is best to make sure she is up to it before your vacation starts.

Take basic safety precautions like not letting the animal run free in the vehicle. She could cause an accident. This means that she should be leashed securely or travel in a pet container. Never leave your precious pet in a hot car with the windows shut. It doesn’t take long for the temperature inside to reach lethal levels. Make sure you provide her with fresh water and food. For dogs, she will greatly appreciate frequent stops to get a quick bit of exercise.

When bringing your pet to a motel or hotel that accommodates pet travel please be sure to follow all their rules. A bad experience will make it more difficult for future pet owners. Keep her leashed and clean up after her. Do not allow her to damage property by chewing or scratching. Be prepared for emergencies and possible problems due to stress. If possible, find out the name and phone number of a local vet or animal hospital near where you will be staying.

With a little effort your vacation can be safe and fun for both people and animals. Remember, Fido or Fluffy can’t look after themselves so it is up to you to be sure that their traveling needs are taken care of.

Here are a few things to consider when traveling with your pet:

• Temperament – Make certain that your four-legged pal enjoys traveling before taking him on a long trip. Take time during the weeks leading up to your vacation to take him on several short trips so that he will be more accustomed to the sights, smells and sensations of riding in a car. If your pet is aggressive, ill-mannered or simply terrified of traveling, you may want to consider a qualified pet sitter or reputable boarding facility.

• Manners – It is only proper and responsible that you to make sure that your pet will be a welcomed guest at your destination. You may be a sight for sore eyes for your favorite aunt, but your dog or cat may not be! Make certain that your pet is well-behaved and if you have a dog, make sure that he understands basic commands before going on you trip. Take along some favorite toys to make sure that your pet doesn’t become bored and find destructive ways to entertain himself with.

• Medical Needs – If you’re going away for a long trip, or if your pet is chronically ill, take it to the vet for a pre-vacation check-up. Make certain that all vaccinations are up to date and take the proper documentation with you. In the unlikely event that your pet gets into a fight or bites someone during your trip, you’ll want documentation that the pet has had its shots. Your vet may prescribe your pet a mild sedative or suggest a safe motion sickness remedy if your pet has suffered in the past. It’s also advisable to obtain the names of a couple of veterinarians at your destination just in case of emergency.

• Accommodations – As more people take to traveling with pets, more and more hotels are catering to pet travelers. By using the search term “pet-friendly” in your query, you will receive a wealth of information about pet-friendly accommodations and destinations, RV parks, dog parks, beaches and campgrounds. Major online travel agencies, like Expedia, Travelocity and Orbitz, allow you to limit your hotel search results to only those who allow pets.

• Safety – When traveling with pets it is important to ensure their safety and not to do anything that could put them in danger. Always have your dog or cat on a leash and never allow a pet to roam freely in the vehicle, as it could get tangled around the driver’s feet or get in the driver’s sight of the road. Always crate your dog or cat in a sturdy, well-ventilated carrier big enough for them to stand up and turn around in comfortably. It’s a good idea to get them used to the crate a few weeks prior to departing. Also be sure to have collars and I.D. tags for your pets in the event that they become separated from you. Investing in a microchip may also be something to consider if your pet has a tendency to get loose.

• Food, Water and Potty Breaks – Pack food and water bowls and avoid chances of stomach upset by packing an adequate supply of your pet’s regular brand of food. Switching pet food under any circumstances can cause abdominal distress and can be extremely unpleasant for all concerned… especially while confined in a car! Stick to their regular feeding routine and give the main meal at the end of the day or when you reach your destination. Traveling with pets can also lead to dehydration so it’s important to stop frequently not only for potty breaks and exercise, but also to let them get a fresh drink of water. Make sure to keep a supply of “doodie” bags handy so you can comply with local ordinances when necessary.