Many people avoid pet travel under the assumption that animals are not allowed. In some cases this is true, but for the most part many pets are able to travel with their owner as long as certain requirements are met with consideration to breed, size, and weight. Family vacations are no longer permitted for the two-legged only. Today, many hotels, campsites, and airlines are welcoming to owners traveling with their cats and dogs.

Before you hit the road or skies with your four-legged furry friend, here are some pet-traveling tips to consider:

1. Requirements
During plane travel, dogs can sit with their owner, but can cost as much as a plane ticket (in addition to the owner’s) and be a certain weight. This can be a problem for dogs with medical issues or owners with a budget, which is why proper research beforehand is critical. If your pet is needed for your emotional or physical health, (i.e. sight, epilepsy, anxiety, etc.), you should definitely check the rules of support animals for your transportation or lodging. If your animal qualifies as a support animal, a lot of the regulations and fees can be waived or at least more lenient. However, a veterinary or doctor’s note may be needed so you will want to give yourself ample time to provide such.

2. Medical history
Anytime you are traveling with a pet, it is crucial to bring all their medical records. The most important should be vaccine information, but also dates of check-ups, procedures, allergies, etc. Pets need to always be kept up to date on their health needs. One, most modes of travel and hotels legally require them. Secondly, it can serve as a protection against liability for yourself and your pet. Even if you have the sweetest tempered kitten, you never know how she might act under the stress and fatigue travel brings. Inversely, if an animal were to ever attack your pet, there is proof that your animal is healthy and safe.

3. Pet friendly hotels
Given the circumstances of traveling, pets are less negotiable in transportation versus lodging. People have no option than to bring their pet such as when moving. Many hotels, motels, inns, and other lodging have more of a decision in whether they want to allow animals. If stated in their guidelines, these places have the right to deny shelter to guests not abiding to their guidelines (sometimes without refund) especially in relation to pets. It is important to read over all guidelines pertaining to animals and ensure they meet your expectations. Some places may claim to be pet friendly hotels but only allow certain types of animals, certain weight classes, specific temperament, or require animals to be in a common “daycare” area during your stay. These are the kinds of things you will want to review beforehand to make sure it meets your expectations. If you have any doubt about your pet, the best thing to do is to contact the lodging facility to ask. Even if your pet does not meet their guidelines, they are more likely to work with you if discussed prior to arrival.

4. Do your research
Traveling with pets does not have to be as difficult as some may believe. Being aware of what is needed and taking necessary precautions is key. The biggest tool is having the time to perform research on rules and contacting facilities. Bringing your pet can ensure they are in good hands and make for an even more fun trip!