1. Contact Your Airlines in Advance When Traveling with Pets. Ask for their pet policies and fees. Make reservations for your pets in advance to ensure they will be accepted on the flights. If they have too many pets flying and your pet does not have a reservation, they may not be able to board to plane. Ensure that you do not travel when the weather is above 85 degrees at your arrival destination, some airlines will not accept pet travel in places where the weather is too hot. Arrive at the airport at least three hours before your scheduled flight if traveling with your pet. This will give you enough time to go through airport security and get the pet situated for the flight. Groom your pet before any travel. Include a shower, nail trim and combing. This will ensure the pet is comfortable on the trip.
2. Get Your Pet Immunized for International Pet Travel. Find out the pet policies of each country. The European Union requires all pets have a microchip with veterinary records no older than 30 days.
3. Feed the Pet Several Hours Before Any Trips and Take Them For a Long Walk Prior to Travel. They may not have a lot of time to stretch, eat or get fresh air before their trip. This will also help them to sleep better when traveling. Renew any shots that are due for your pet before traveling.
4. Check in Advance When Staying at a Hotel for Their Hotel Pet Policies. Some require non-refundable pet deposits, others require refundable pet fees and some don't require any deposit for pets. Not following a hotels pet policies may leave you and your pet without a place to stay. Check with the hotel if they have any pet-friendly restaurants on-site or nearby.
5. Bring a Kennel, Food, Treats, Shampoo, Pet Tag, Brush, Toys, Any Needed Medication, Litter for Cats and a Pet Bed When Staying at a Hotel. Some hotels provide a welcome package for pets, others don't. You want to be sure you have all the pet supplies you need to make your pet as comfortable as possible while away from home.
