Avoid Pet Travel Disaster, Road Trip Tips and Where to Sit- Stay. Don't Forget the Dog Water.

If you are planning a vacation trip by car you may want to include your dog in your travel plans. Before making that decision, however, consider your dog's age, health and personality. You must also determine whether your dog will be included in your vacation activities. If your dog isn't up to extensive traveling or would only end up spending lonely hours in a hotel room while you go sightseeing, leave your pet at a boarding kennel or with a professional pet sitter.

If you've contemplated the situation carefully and have decided that your dog should travel with you, the following suggestions will help insure that both you and your dog will enjoy your vacation.

Before your departure, take your dog to your veterinarian to get a health certificate and proof of vaccinations. Different states have different regulations, so it is best to take your dog's records with you in case they are required. Let your vet know where you will be traveling in case there are communicable diseases you should be aware of. If you are going to be hiking in wilderness areas, inquire about Lyme disease.

Most dogs love to travel in the car, but if your dog is not accustomed to traveling, take him for mini-trips beforehand. To help your dog overcome motion sickness, feed him lightly before the trip, about one-third the usual amount.

Your vacation route should be planned with your dog's needs in mind. Rest stops should be included every four to six hours so your dog can relieve himself. Water should be offered at each stop. Be sure to carry paper towels to clean up potential car accidents and pickup bags to scoop-up after rest stops.

During your trip, your dog should always wear a collar with rabies and identification tags. Keep an extra ID tag on your dog's collar with a friend's name and address -- since you will not be at home to receive any calls if your dog is lost. Of course, the most permanent form of identification is a tattoo on the inside of your dog's rear leg.

Although you may be tempted to let your dog wander around in the car while driving, he could represent a real hazard if he wanders underneath your feet or gets in between you and the steering wheel. Do not let your dog stick his head out of the window since this can lead to ear or eye injuries. If loose, he could also be hurled against the windshield or escape through a shattered window in the event of an accident. A dog should never be allowed to ride in the back of an open pickup truck. In case of an accident, the dog would be thrown from the vehicle.

As a safety measure, it is a much better idea to keep your dog in a crate while driving. When confined to a crate, your dog won't be able to get in the way of your driving and will be better protected in the case of an accident. A crate will also provide a den for your dog when you reach your destination. Your dog will feel secure in his crate, despite the strange location. You may also want to check into the new doggy car harnesses that are now available. Made from nylon, these harness-like seat belts attach to human belts.

Please remember when traveling with your dog that you must never leave it in a parked car. Even a car parked in direct sun on a cool day, with the windows cracked a few inches, can heat to more than 120 degrees F in less than 10 minutes.

The Air Transport Association of America estimates that over 500,000 cats and dogs fly on commercial airlines every year. The days of pets being banned to the cargo area are gone, and some airlines will allow small pets to travel with their owners in the cabin. This article will provide tips and guidelines for traveling in the cabin with your pet.

In order to qualify for the privilege of cabin travel, your dog or cat must be small enough to fit comfortably inside a carrier that will fit under a passenger seat. The dimensions of such a carrier are usually 8" x 17" x 12", but contact your airline before purchasing a carrier. Every airline has its own particular regulations; some airlines permit soft-sided carriers while others only allow the hard-side style. If your carrier does not meet their requirements, you may not be allowed to use it. Animal carriers are counted as a part of your carry-on luggage, but generally require an additional fee of $30 to $60, depending on the airline.

Your dog will be more comfortable in his carrier if you let him become used to it at home. Leave it open in the house with a comfortable cushion or blanket and a favorite toy inside. You may also want to try taking him for short excursions in the car so he will be familiar to traveling in it.

In most cases airlines restrict animals to one small animal per cabin, so make sure that you have an advanced reservation. When you order your tickets, request an aisle seat with seats in front of you - it will be easier to slide the carrier under the seat.

Most airlines require a health certificate issued not more than 10 days before your date of departure. Rabies and vaccination certificates may also be necessary. It is best to inquire about all paperwork and restrictions before arriving at the airport - if all is not in order, you and your dog will not be allowed to board the plane.

Feed your dog a very light meal at least 4 hours before departure. Try to make sure he has relieved himself before the trip. Arrive at the airport early, especially if you are traveling during a holiday. Hand check your pet through security. Since you may have to remove your dog from his carrier for the security check, keep a collar and leash on him until you have passed through. Keep both your and your dog's ticket handy. Most airlines will allow you to board the plane when they seat "those needing extra time or assistance".

Tranquilizing a dog is sometimes necessary, but there are dogs who actually become more agitated with their use. Follow your veterinarian's recommendation for your dog; he knows him best