Issue link: http://digital.canadawide.com/i/157485
travel smarts Jet-set pets: How to bring Rover along for the ride H ave pet, will definitely, unapologetically, travel. Rather than a mundane walk around the local block, jet-setting pets are increasingly finding themselves chasing sticks in parks far from home. The hospitality industry has also done an about-face in recent years and is now giving our furry companions the (stain-resistant) red-carpet treatment, with blankets, treats and perhaps even the services of pet concierges. Taking a beloved companion – dogs in eight out of 10 cases, cats occasionally and, in rare instances, birds, ferrets, rabbits and goldfish too according to one traveller survey – on holiday requires careful forethought and planning. The Manitoba Veterinary Medical Association suggests owners pack up-to-date health and vaccination certificates and reserves of medication, while also warning that travel can be stressful for anxious, diabetic or older animals. Microchips and ID tags are a must. "Everyday travel experiences and little jaunts around town with your pet will typically tell you if they're ready for a longer roadtrip or a flight," says Dr. Jay Thrush of the Brandon Hills Veterinary Clinic in Brandon. "We frown on sedatives since you can never tell how your pet will react, so overly excited or nervous animals should stay behind." He adds that if your animal has not been to their vet in awhile, it's a good idea to drop in for a quick check-up before departure. Other pre-trip business to consider: Will the friends and family you plan to visit be excited or daunted to see your extra passenger? Are you able to pre-book pet-friendly stays? Advance planning is essential, as most hotels have a limited stock of pet-accessible rooms. U.S. and Canadian customs officials will want to see up-to-date rabies vaccination and veterinary certificates, so a visit to the vet prior to a cross-border outing is crucial. On overseas trips, check with the consulate of the destination country about requirements and quarantine regulations. Flying to your destination? Pets were once shipped exclusively via the cargo hold. Now cats and lap dogs can travel in the passenger cabin on some major airlines, in 8 GOING PL ACES p08-09_TravelSmarts.indd 8 >> fa l l 2 0 1 3 airline-approved soft-sided carriers that slip under the seat in front of you. Larger breeds ship as cargo in approved kennels (bring your own or rent one from the airline). Air Canada and WestJet detail their pet policies and procedures on their websites. It costs about $100 to fly a small pet in the cabin round-trip within North America, and double that for Air Canada's international flights. Pets travelling as baggage cost $100 and up, depending on the distance and the carrier. When travelling by car, keep animal passengers in a carrier strapped in with a safety belt, or hitch them to the back seat with a stylish, newfangled harness. A loose pooch or kitty can get up to all kinds of mischief, notes Dr. Thrush, activating electronic windows, jumping into laps and even getting under the driver's feet. He also recommends never leaving an animal alone in a vehicle, even if you've ensured ventilation and accessible water. Dogs in Canada magazine recently cited Montreal, Vancouver, New York and Houston among the dog-friendliest cities on the continent based on green space, amenities and civic attitudes. The AAA's annually updated guide Travelling with Your Pet (available at CAA Manitoba locations) lists thousands of pet-friendly accommodations across North America, including spots in Manitoba plus U.S. getaway favourites such as Minneapolis and the Wisconsin Dells. Indeed, some towns have proudly gone to the dogs, especially here in the friendly West. Many Winnipeg hotels welcome pets, including the luxurious Fairmont Winnipeg (which charges an extra $25 per day for the privilege). At pet-friendly hotels, expect to be asked not to leave your pet untended in the room. Nothing disturbs other guests like the croon of the lonely dog blues. Also, keep your dog on a short leash when you're walking in and out of the hotel, so you don't disturb other guests, and ask the concierge if there is a preferred entrance for dogs. And remember: there may be charges for damage caused by pets. If you're camping, investigate pet rules before you book. Many campsites levy a daily charge for pets, and others prohibit leaving your pet alone outside your RV or tent. When out and about, the usual on-leash and poop-and-scoop rules apply as much to visiting pets as the resident four-legged population. Yet no matter where or how one travels with a pet, one thing is certain: the trip is sure to produce as many fond memories as smudged nose prints on the rear window. –Jeff Bateman Bellebrute/threeinabox.com 13-08-14 1:26 PM C R P p E • • •