One of the most common questions people ask each summer is: “Can I travel with my pet?”

Family vacations to great outdoor destinations can be enhanced by the company of a four-legged friend. Before you go, think long and hard about your responsibilities and do your homework so you're fully prepared.

Cats, which are solitary by nature, are sensitive to disruptions in their routine, and most do not do well on long trips. Air flight to join the family on holiday is rarely practical for a cat. Carsickness is another common problem. If your cat is one of the rare car-hardy felines, you might be able to bring it along for a weekend trip to the cottage, as long as it stays indoors. Wilderness poses many hazards, from water and predators to irresistible prey, which can lead your cat into trouble or expose it to injury.

In your absence, your beloved cat is more likely to be happy boarding, or at home with a sitter or frequent visitor. Cats are very attached to their space, which means that stability and routine are keys to reducing stress and protecting their health. You can lower some of the pet-sitting requirements with a self-feeder that dispenses food and water on schedule. Ideally, however, someone needs to look in on your feline with some frequency to ensure that all is okay.

Dogs can be more amenable to travel, but preparation is everything, whether you’re hitting the road or taking to the skies.

Certificates of Health: Pay a visit to your vet before leaving for a trip to ensure your dog is healthy. Investigate the customs requirements of your destination. Your dog’s vaccines must be up to date, and you will need to carry vet-signed certificates with you at all times. The last thing any family wants to see is its beloved dog under quarantine at the border.

Crate: Your dog’s crate is its home away from home. The crate needs to be secure and conform to airline standards. Bored or stressed animals can devote an entire trip to escaping, and each year, animals are seriously injured or die in the process. A successful canine escape artist can be lost forever. Choose a durable crate that is put together with secure bolts and has a locking, metal door. Most importantly, acclimatize your pet to many hours in its new “cave.” Always label your dog’s crate and collar with all your vital contact information in the event you become separated.

Air Passengers: Generally speaking, the smaller the dog, the better it travels by air. The majority of airlines will allow pets and their crates, within certain limits of weight and dimensions, to travel in the main compartment. Check the specifics and charges with your airline well in advance. Thousands of animals also travel in cargo holds each year, but success depends largely on the temperament and overall health of your dog. If your air travel involves multiple planes, however, I do not recommend bringing your pet. Scheduling delays or cancellations could leave your dog stuck on the tarmac in the hot sun with tragic consequences.

Sedation: Pet owners often ask about the use of sedatives, and the answer depends on the mode of travel and the length of the journey. If your pet is in the cabin with your supervision then mild, calming sedation may be appropriate. I do not recommend sedation, however, if your pet is in the hold. Sedatives can inhibit an animal’s ability to regulate its body temperature, which can cause health risks especially in old and young dogs.

Car Travel: Most dogs love car trips. Your dog and its pack (that’s you!) take on an adventure full of new smells, places to go and people to see. You have control of your environment and schedule so feeding and walks are easily accommodated. In the car, fresh or cool air, shade and lots of cool water are a must for travelling dogs. While many people allow their dogs to ride free in a car, the safer method for long distances is to place your dog in a crate (strapped in place with a seatbelt) in the rear seat or compartment. In the event of an accident, front and side air bags are obvious hazards for free-roaming dogs. You can also be sure that in the event of a collision, your dog will be disoriented, if not aggressive. A crate reduces your dog's risk of injury, while increasing the ease with which you or someone else can safely rescue it.

Travel Tips
When travelling with your pet:
• Book a veterinary check up to be sure that your pet is healthy and its vaccines up to date
• Ease your pet into prolonged stays in its crate
• Call the consulate of your destination country to find out what documentation you need and to confirm that your province’s standard of care is accepted
• Carry the required certificates with you at all times
• Do not sedate your pet without your vet’s recommendation
• Do not undertake complex, multiple-flight trips with airport transfers