Summer Travel Tips for a Happy Pet

It is summer time, the kids are out of school so now is the time for that much needed vacation. Some family vacations may also include bringing the family pet as well, others require our pets stay behind. Here are some tips to remember in either situation.
1. Make sure your pet is up to date on their vaccines. When traveling with your pet always bring along your pets vaccine records, especially their rabies certificate.
2. If your pet will be boarding, they also need to be up to date on their vaccines. One important point to remember is that most vaccines take two weeks to build up immunity, so if vaccines are given the day before you leave, your pet may not be protected. Always plan ahead and give yourself at least two weeks between the time vaccines were given and the time your pet will be boarding.
3. If your pet will be flying within the USA a Health Certificate will be necessary. A health certificate involves a veterinarian certifying that your pet is healthy and safe for travel. Some airlines ask for the certificate to be dated anywhere between 2-4 weeks before travel, so always ask in order to avoid any last minute complications at the airport.
4. Airlines may also ask for an Acclimation Certificate. This is for larger dogs flying but traveling in the airplane cargo area. This certificate describes the temperature ranges that are safe for pets while they are in cargo. It is important to ask if the temperatures in cargo are regulated or not.
5. International travel is more complicated and may sometimes require up to 6 months of proper paperwork depending on where you will be traveling to. A microchip may be required when traveling internationally. We recommend setting up an appointment with us so we can give you proper guidance.
6. Lastly, whether your pet is boarding, flying or traveling by car, unless they are professional travelers some anxiety relief may be needed. At Happy Pets we carry a variety of products from over the counter natural herb products to prescription strength medications. Plus we can also offer advice and traveling tips during your appointment.
Call now to schedule your travel appointment so that we can help make sure you and your pet’s “vacation” is hassle free.
For more information, reach out to us at Happy Pets Veterinary Center at 661-295-9972, via the web at www.happypetsveterinary.com, or through our Facebook page: www.facebook.com/happypetsvet.