Traveling with pets during the holidays can be fun if you are prepared or beastly if you aren’t.

Since a large number of pet owners will travel with their furry friends this season, groups such as the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, the American Automobile Association (AAA Auto Club) and the state of North Carolina decided to designate November as Pet Safe Travel Awareness Month.

Dogs lead the pack when it comes to travel but other species such as cats, birds and horses often join the festivities too. If you aren’t sure whether or not you should take your pets, consider the following.

• Do your pets enjoy leaving the security of the home or would they be more secure under the care of a pet sitting professional?
• Are your furry family members well behaved in other environments or strange settings?
• Will your critters get along with the animals in the household you intend to visit?
• Have you confirmed that your furry friends will be welcomed by your hosts?

Once you determine if holiday travel is something your pet will enjoy, it is time to consider safety. Since the majority of people travel with pets by car, it is important to prepare before hitting the road.

Pet Travel Safety Checklist

• Keep pet identification tags current. Also attach a temporary tag with host or hotel contact information.
• Include a picture of pets in your wallet and in your cell phone.
• Construct a good pet travel kit case so you don’t forget anything.
• Pack medication and a pet first aid kit.
• Use vehicle safe gear.
• Carry both a short leash and long line.
• Take clean up solutions and a towel.

Pet Vehicle Travel Safety

Pet dogs and cats should be secured in a crate or specially designed harness or seat belt behind the front seats. Proper restraint avoids any interference with the driver and prevents distractions.

In addition, secured animals won’t be thrown from the vehicle during an incident. These safety devices also help prevent the pet from running off after a collision.

In case of an accident, loose pets face danger of injury when air bags deploy or face traffic risks if they escape, get thrown out of the car, or collide with the windshield. So, taking a little time to prepare could save the life of your pets.

Finally, since the holidays are hectic for everyone, schedule some sanity time to do things that both you and your pet will enjoy.

Don’t forget, if you have some holiday hints for pet lovers, take a moment to share them in the comments…and Happy Holidays!

Photo Credit: Taro