Things to consider before taking pets on vacation | Entertainment/Life

Memorial Day weekend signals the start of summer and the beginning of travel season. While most families likely leave the pets at home for summer vacations, many people choose to take their pets along for the adventure.

For me, taking the pets on vacation gives me peace of mind that they are safe and sound. However, the downside is that taking the pets means the vacation destinations may be limited and the trip will require extra planning, extra packing and likely more pit stops if the pets are along for the ride.

Before deciding if a vacation should include the four-legged family members, consider the following:

THE TRAVEL ROUTE: Think about how you will get to the destination. Car? Plane? How long of a ride is it? If driving, rest stops and outdoor dining will take the place of stopping to eat in a restaurant when pets are on board.

RULES FOR FLYING: Most airlines will allow a small pet to fly in the cabin for domestic flights if it is in an airline-approved carrier. The pet must have its own ticket, and people are usually limited to one pet carrier per customer. There are age and vaccination requirements to fly a pet. Pets must also be contained in the terminal, gate area and while boarding and exiting the aircraft.

INTERNATIONAL COMPLICATIONS: International flights bring additional challenges. Many countries have strict rules and often require extensive health certifications and vaccinations. Some even require quarantine periods once you arrive. Re-entry into the United States can be a headache, too, as regulations are always changing, especially for dogs. Be ready to get documentation well in advance and be prepared for delays if traveling internationally with a pet.

CONFIRM ACCOMMODATIONS: Make sure the hotel or condo where you’re staying is pet-friendly and that any restrictions on the size, weight and number of pets are met.

KNOW YOUR PET: Not all pets travel equally. If a dog is anti-social and not used to being in new settings or meeting new people, tagging along on vacation may not be the best idea. If a dog is stressed easily or does not do well in unfamiliar situations, then it may be best to leave him in the hotel or condo while the family enjoys vacation activities.

ON THE BEACH: My sister-in-law just returned from Seaside, Florida, and was surprised to see that dogs are not allowed on the beach unless you’re a resident or have a permit. If dogs are allowed, some beaches require pets to be leashed at all times and may restrict areas that are accessible to pets.

CARRY WATER: A dog visiting the beach or hiking in the woods will need access to shade and lots of fresh water (not salt water) to keep him hydrated in the heat. Dogs can become dehydrated easily.

SUNSCREEN: Pet stores carry dog-specific sunscreen, and it should be used on dogs with lighter coats and sensitive spots such as the nose and the tips of the ears.

PROPER IDS: A secure collar with proper identification tags, up-to-date vaccinations and being microchipped are checklist items that are crucial before traveling. In the event that you should become separated, these will be important. I recommend a secure harness with a collar and tags. Accidents can happen, so always be prepared.

Pet packing essentials:

• Medications and first-aid supplies
• Leashes and collars
• Paperwork (vaccine records, etc.)
• Appropriate carrier/kennel
• Bedding
• Food and water
• Life jacket (if water activities are involved)

I always like to identify the nearest vet clinic where we are staying, just in case there is an emergency while we are away.

Bringing the pets on vacation may not be ideal for every person or every pet. The type of travel matters: A short road trip may be tolerable, but a long flight can be stressful for some pets — and owners, for that matter. As you make those summer travel plans, weigh the pros and cons and see if the pets might be more comfortable staying with a trusted family member or sitter.