Whether you are planning to drive your dog to a park or thinking about taking your pet on a holiday with you, there are a few things to consider before setting off with your companion animal.
Motor Vehicle Safety
Vehicle travel presents an inherent risk to animals, as it does to people, and animal caregivers have a responsibility to take reasonable steps to minimize that risk. Discussions around animal transport usually focus on livestock, but companion animals can be at risk of injury, as well.
In most cases, it is safest for animals to travel in the passenger compartment of the vehicle. They should be in the back part of the vehicle, so they won’t distract the driver or be at risk of injury from the dashboard or deploying airbags in the event of a collision. And don’t let a dog ride with its head outside the window—even without a collision, a quick stop could cause head or neck injuries.
Vacationing With Pets
The first thing to think about is whether vacation travel is in the best interest of your pet. If your pet is very young, old, sick or recovering from surgery, staying at home or with another trusted caregiver may be the best bet. Before departing, visit your veterinarian to ensure your pet is fit for the trip and ask about precautions you should take before embarking on your journey.
Before You Leave
Have your animal’s collar, license, ID tags with your name and phone number, microchip, immunization records, veterinary phone numbers, required medications, usual pet food, water, dishes and toys with you.
Travelling By Motor Vehicle
- Make sure your pet is accustomed to vehicle travel before departing on a long road trip.
- Never leave your pet unattended in a hot vehicle. Your companion animal can suffer irreparable brain damage or possibly death if left alone for just a few minutes. (See for more information.)
- Make sure your vehicle is well ventilated.
- Make frequent stops and bring plenty of water.
Travelling By Plane
- Call ahead! Make sure that your pet will be permitted on the flight. Each airline may have different policies and requirements, so be sure to check in with them before you fly.
- For information from Air Canada, visit Air Canada pet transport information
- For information from WestJet, visit WestJet pet travel tips.
- For information from Canadian North, visit Canadian North: Travelling with Animals.
- Make sure the kennel is the proper size for your pet. The animal should be able to stand, sit, turn around and lie down comfortably during the flight.
Camping
- It is important that your dog can reliably sit, stay, heel and come on command. This training is not only for the safety of your dog, but for your safety as well!
- Dogs can frighten as well as harm wildlife, so they should be discouraged from barking and should be kept on a leash at all times.
- Call ahead to campgrounds to ensure that dogs are permitted.
- Your tent is the safest place for your dog to sleep.
Staying In a Hotel
Many hotels and motels accept pets. When making a reservation, check that their policy allows pets. For a list of pet friendly hotels across North America visit Pets Welcome.