Posted: August 18, 2008, 5 a.m. EDT
Two Yorkshire Terriers, two Maltese, one Belgian Shepherd and one black Labrador Retriever puppy are all part of Mariel Hemingway’s travel plans. And according to the actress and author, smart travelers have happy pets.
In 2007, pet travel soared 33 percent to a record 20 million, according to the American Pet Products Manufacturers Association., and 80 percent of the happy travelers were dogs. In addition, 14 percent – or 29 million Americans – travel with their pets, according to a recent Travel Industry Association study.
“I think it’s important to be smart about traveling so that both you and your pet have an awesome trip,” Hemingway said.
Planning a few basic considerations can help make all the difference. Hemmingway offers the following tips:
- Bring familiar items for your pet, such as a favorite blanket, chews, treats and toys.
- Pack a first-aid kit especially for pets (tweezers, gauze, hydrogen).
- Make sure your cat or dog wears a collar with an ID tag, just in case you’re separated.
- Never leave your cat or dog alone in a parked vehicle.
- Keep your pet on a leash as much as possible when you’re outside your vehicle.
- If you’re driving, bring water from home in plastic containers. This will help prevent stomach upset from different water.
- If you’re flying, book a direct flight.
- If your pet is in the plane’s baggage section, write “live animal” on the crate, mark it with arrows for the upright position, and be sure it is closed, but not locked, so personnel can open it in case of emergency.
- Talk to your veterinarian before you leave home. The vet can tell you about any potential problems and how to avoid them.