Traveling with Your Pet

Any sort of travel with your pet can be fun but also stressful, not only for you but for your pet.  Here are some tips to make preparations and travel time easier for all involved.
First of all, it is recommended to have your pet get a full check-up with their veterinarian prior to travel to make sure they are healthy enough for travel and to address any concerns you may have.  If you will be traveling with them by plane, you will need to get a signed health certificate from your vet within 10 days of travel.  If you are staying in hotels or camping, make sure they are pet-friendly.
Once your pet gets a clean bill of health, make sure that your pet is comfortable with the crate they may be traveling in.  If they have never been in a carrier before, let them get acquainted with the crate at home first.  Leave the carrier out in an open spot in the house and allow them to go in and out of it at their leisure so they can explore it.  Consider putting a few treats inside the carrier as well to help coax them.  Once they have explored it a bit, then try closing them inside of the carrier for just a few minutes at a time.
If you are traveling with your pet by car, make sure your pet will be properly restrained to prevent injury.  Pets should never travel with their heads out the window or in the driver’s lap.  Your pet should never ride in the back of a truck.  Cats should always be in carriers. Make frequent stops along your journey to allow them to relieve themselves and get some exercise.
Make sure your pet’s ID tags are up-to-date and if they have a microchip implanted, make sure all of your contact information is up-to-date associated with their microchip number.  It is always a good idea to bring a copy of your pet’s medical records with you as well.  Don’t forget all of the following for your pet’s needs while away from home:  Collar, leash, harness, crate, bed or blankets, toys, food and water, and dishes as well as any prescription medications your pet may be taking.
Cinema Veterinary Centre is located at 23460 Cinema Drive, suite L in Valencia.  For more information, please call 661-253-9300.