So it’s summer, and that means it’s vacation time for several people! But what’s a Pommy Mommy to do when traveling with her fur baby?
There’s a lot to consider when trying to decide whether to bring your four-legged bestie along for your adventure, but knowing a few things before you go and doing your homework ahead of time will be a big help.
The first thing you should consider is if your Pommy will get any enjoyment out of the trip or if it would just be a hairy situation for your little furball. Some pets don’t travel well and you wouldn’t want to cause your Pommy any undue stress, so in some cases it might be better to hire a dog sitter or board your pet at a kennel.
For the Pom Moms who decide to travel with their pets, being prepared will go a long way in minimizing stress and simplifying the process. We hope the following tips will help you and your Pommy have safe travels!
Lodging
Make sure you know the hotel’s pet policy before you arrive there. Are pets even allowed? If so, is there a fee? What are the other rules associated with pets? Since the policies usually vary by location, call ahead and ask. Petswelcome.com is also a great resource for finding pet-friendly hotels in any locale.
Road Trip
If you plan to hit the road, make sure your furry friend is familiar with the car well beforehand by taking him or her on a series of short drives, gradually lengthening the amount of time spent in the car.
Your Pommy not only has to be familiar with the car, but the crate they’ll be traveling in once inside the car. Make sure the crate is well ventilated and is big enough for your Pom to sit, stand, lie down and turn around in, then make sure the crate is secure inside the car. As an alternative to a crate, you can get your Pommy a safety harness that attaches to the seat belt buckle. There are also booster seats you can place your pet in.
It’s important to secure your Pommy because a sudden stop or accident could send him or her flying across the car, and a loose pet in a car means there’s a greater chance of him or her escaping if someone opens a door without first grabbing the leash.
Stop frequently for bathroom and exercise breaks for your Pommy. It’s a good idea to give your Pom a light meal a few hours before you get in the car so their tummy has time to settle, but don’t feed your Pom in a moving vehicle, as that could lead to an upset stomach. And of course, never leave your Pommy alone in a parked car on a warm day.
If you’ll be traveling across state lines, take your Pom’s rabies and vaccination records since some states require proof of those vaccinations at certain interstate crossings.
Flying
The first thing you need to do is check with the airline for its rules and regulations regarding pet travel. Several require a health certificate and other things you might not have considered – and some don’t even allow dogs on board.
Airlines differ on their animal travel policies and requirements in terms of bag/crate size limits, number of pets allowed in the cabin, type of breed and more. Before you book a ticket, it’s important to make sure the airline doesn’t have any special restrictions that will prevent your Pom from flying.
It’s a good idea to visit a website like PetTravel.com or BringFido.com to find a complete list of each airline’s rules, but call the airline to make sure that information is up to date.
It’s also important to check with the airline about health regulations, as many require pets to have a health certificate acquired within the past 10 days to fly. This would also be a good time to see if the airline allows pets to be sedated if you are considering that – some do not.
Just because your Pommy is small, lovable and adorable doesn’t mean he or she can fly for free – you have to pay for your Pommy’s ticket, too. Many airlines charge a fee for each way, which can be as much as a couple hundred dollars. Check individual airlines for specific rates.
Reservations are required for pets that will be carry-on passengers as well as those that will travel in the cargo area. Small pets (weight varies by airline) are often allowed as carry-on’s, but are required to remain in their kennels or carrying bags under the seat during the flight. Larger pets have to fly in the cargo area of the plane.
Just like when you’re going on a road trip, if you plan to fly with your Pommy, it’s important that he or she is familiar with their kennel, carrying case or Sherpa bag. Sherpa bags are often used to carry pets during in-flight travel. You want your Pom to feel comfortable in the bag or carrier so they feel safe on the plane. Make sure the crate or bag is up to standard, accepted by the airline and is the right size for your Pom.
When possible, choose nonstop flights to minimize the stress of you and your Pommy having to change planes several times.
Train, Bus and Sea Travel
Amtrak and Greyhound buses don’t allow pets. Most cruise ships, with the exception of a few, aren’t fido-friendly either.
General Tips
*A visit to the vet is important before any trip, especially if you plan to fly.
*It’s a good idea to get your Pom a microchip for identification if he or she doesn’t already have one.
*Make sure your Pommy wears a collar with a tag that has your name and home address, as well as a temporary travel tag with your cell phone number and any other relevant contact information.
*Take a current photo of your Pommy with you on the trip in case you would get separated.
*Pack extra food and water, and your Pom’s favorite toys or blankets. Don’t forget the leash, waste bags, any medication or grooming supplies.
*Locate a vet’s office near where you will be staying so you’ll know where to go in case of an emergency. HealthyPet.com is a good resource for that.
*Exercise your Pommy before and after you get to where you’re going. Letting them burn off excess energy before the trip is especially helpful. If they’re tired, they’ll be more inclined to rest en route.
*Once you reach your destination, try to keep your Pom’s eating and exercise schedule similar to what it would be at home.
*If a vet recommends sedation while traveling for a pet that is anxious or aggressive, do a test-run before you leave so you know how it will affect your pet.
If you decide it’s best not to take your Pommy along on your trip – or can’t – research kennel and doggie day care options. You can also have someone house-sit for you and take care of your Pommy at home, and in that situation it’s even better if your pooch knows the person and is familiar with them. Whatever the case, we hope you and your Pommy are having a fabulous summer!
Peace, Love, & Pomeranians,
Pom Mom Jaime Mowers
Jaime Mowers is the Pommy Mommy of Foxy and Bear-Bear.