What to Know Before Bringing Your Pet on Vacation
New York (CBSNewYork) — During the epidemic, the number of pets adopted skyrocketed. According to a January survey by Rover.com, 49% of Americans indicated they purchased a new dog as a result of the outbreak.
Pet parents are wanting to take their pets on vacation now that travel is picking up again. What you need to know is as follows:
1. Become familiar with Fido's flight regulations.
The Department of Transportation altered its rule on flying with service animals last year, no longer recognizing Emotional Support Animals (ESAs) as service animals, allowing airlines to charge for ESAs.
Most US airlines already charge consumers $125 per flight for bringing pets into the cabin.
Dr. Marie Bucko, a veterinarian, advises that you consider whether taking your pet on your next trip is the best option for them.
In an interview with ABC News, Bucko stated, Your pets are part of the family, so it's logical that you would want to bring them on a family trip.It's not always so simple, and there's a lot to consider before taking our pets on vacation with us.
According to Bucko, it's critical to evaluate the length and distance of your flight.
Bucko stated, We certainly don't want any of our fur kids to become sick on a flight.
Whether you think your pet is up for flying, check with your airline to see if they will let them on board.
Check with the airlines since they may have breed and size restrictions, and most airlines also require a certificate of veterinary examination, which is essentially a health certificate,Bucko explained.
If you're taking your pet in the cabin, Bucko recommends getting an appropriate-sized carrier and working on desensitizing your pet to it.
You may look into their dimensions and what their constraints could be at the airport or a local pet store, Bucko said.
2. Allow additional time for your pet to use the restroom at the airport.
Find out where the pet relief spots are after you get at the airport, according to Bucko.
"Make sure you arrive early enough at the airport to exercise your pet and take them to the relieve area," she said.
Bucko advises that once you've cleared security, you should notify the flight crew that you'll be flying with your pet.
"Your best bet is to alert the flight attendants as soon as you board that your dogs are either with you or in the cargo hold," Bucko advised. "Just having an open channel of communication with them as soon as you step onto that flight and saying, 'look, I have my pet with me, is there anything you need from me?' to make this travel smoother for everyone."
3. Some people fly their pets in private planes if they can afford it.
Some pet owners are ready to spend a significant amount of money in order to make their pets more comfortable. Luxury Aircraft Solutions, a jet charter firm, said that over 74% more customers traveled with pets in June than in June 2019.
Customers frequently book charters to relocate their dogs across the country, according to Daniel Hirschhorn, managing director of Jetmembership.com. He claims that flying your pet on a private plane is more expensive than flying commercially.
In general, even with those additional expenses, a private charter is much more expensive, Hirschhorn added. People spend a lot of money on their dogs; they're like family members, and they're prepared to pay to bring them anywhere.
Luxury Aircraft Solutions jets, unlike commercial planes, do not require animals to be crated, according to Hirschhorn.
4. If your pet isn't brave enough to fly, consider taking them on a road trip.
For most individuals, traveling with a pet by automobile is more cost effective. You may work with your pet to get them acquainted to the car in the same way that you can with travel boxes.
If you don't take your dog in the car very often, start with short outings to enjoyable destinations like a dog-friendly park or a play area to truly get your pet used to traveling in a car, Bucko advised.
Bucko advises speaking with your veterinarian before your next road trip if your pet becomes ill while on the road.
My best piece of advice is to speak with your veterinarian about alternative travel options and even drugs to keep them comfortable.
5. When planning your next vacation, think about pet-friendly destinations.
Whatever mode of transportation you choose, ensure sure your location is pet-friendly.
According to Emily Kaufman, a travel expert, hotels and resorts are increasingly developing special offers to allow pet owners to bring their pets on vacation.
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