Issue link: http://digital.canadawide.com/i/162438
savvytraveller 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 Saskatchewan Veterinary Medical Association (SVMA) 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. "Every pet is an individual with its own unique character and tolerance for travel," says Bridget Gray, chair of SVMA's Animal Welfare Committee and a veterinarian with Big Sky Farms in Humboldt. "Many can handle long days in the car provided they get regular water, pee and exercise breaks. Others will definitely be happier and healthier staying behind in a kennel or with a sitter. Responsible owners will know what's right." 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 petaccessible rooms. U.S. and Canadian customs officials will want to see up-to-date rabies vaccination and veterinary certificates, so Dr. Gray says 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 air- 8 westworld p08-09_SavvyTravlr.indd 8 >> fa l l 2 0 1 3 line-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 on their websites. It costs about $100 to fly a small pet in the cabin roundtrip 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. Dr. Gray also recommends never leaving an animal alone in a vehicle, even if you've ensured ventilation and accessible water. "Things happen," she says. "You think you'll be gone for just a few minutes and then get delayed. Temperatures can rise pretty dramatically in a car on a hot day." Dogs in Canada magazine cites 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 lists thousands of petfriendly accommodations across North America, including spots in Saskatchewan, Alberta and Manitoba, plus U.S. getaway favourites such as Billings, Montana, and Rapid City, South Dakota. Indeed, some towns have proudly gone to the dogs, especially here in the friendly West. No less a grand dame of Regina hotels than the Radisson Plaza Hotel Saskatchewan downtown welcomes one cat or dog (less than 23 kilograms) in its historic rooms (though not in its swank restaurants or fitness centre, naturally enough). 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 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 pets alone outside your RV or tent. When out and about, the usual on-leash and poop-and-scoop rules apply. 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 Visit caask.ca/wwonline to learn more about the guide, Travelling with Your Pet. Bellebrute/threeinabox.com 13-08-19 9:35 AM C R P p E • • • FO P ra th w ot ta di cu id h