January 2nd marks the observance of National Pet Travel Safety Day, a significant day highlighting the importance of pet safety during travel. This holiday, founded by celebrity pet expert Colleen Paige, aims to raise awareness about safe travel with pets in various modes of transportation.

The day encourages pet owners to make New Year’s resolutions for the safety of their pets on the road, in the air, or even during a bike ride.

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Never leave pets alone in a parked car due to temperature risks.

The Evolution of Pet Travel

Traveling with pets has a fascinating history. Until the late 1980s, only the wealthiest could afford to take their pets on trips, as only select hotels accepted them, and travel options were limited, reports National Today reports.

This changed when a flight attendant, Gayle Martz, created the 'Sherpa Bag', a pet carrier for in-cabin airplane travel, revolutionizing pet travel in the air. The emergence of pet passports under the European Union's "PETS scheme" further eased pet travel, making it a common phenomenon today.

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Ensure your pet has a microchip and up-to-date ID tags.

Key Tips for Safe Pet Travel

National Pet Travel Safety Day serves as a reminder to prioritize the well-being of our animal companions during travel. Here's an expanded look at the essential tips for safe pet travel:

10. Secure Your Pets

Pets, like humans, need to be securely fastened in a vehicle. In the event of a sudden stop or an accident, an unrestrained pet can be thrown around inside the vehicle, causing serious injury or even death. Secure them in a crate or with a pet seatbelt to minimize this risk.

9. Comfort with Pheromones

Travel can be stressful for pets, leading to anxiety and behavioral issues, HomeoPet reports. Pheromone products mimic the calming pheromones of a mother animal, providing a sense of safety and comfort to your pet during travel. This can help reduce anxiety-related symptoms like excessive barking or meowing.

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Keep your pet hydrated, especially during long journeys.

8. Backseat Safety

Placing pets in the backseat is safer, especially for larger animals, reports Progressive. Front-seat airbags are designed for adult humans and can be dangerous to pets. In the backseat, pets are less likely to be injured by an airbag deployment in the event of a crash.

7. Microchipping for Safety

Microchipping provides a permanent method of identification. If your pet gets lost during travel, a microchip increases the chances of a safe return. Unlike collars or tags, microchips don't come off, ensuring reliable identification at all times.

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Regularly stop for pet bathroom and exercise breaks on long trips.

6. Pre-travel Vet Check

Consulting with your veterinarian before travel is essential. As VCA Animal Hospitals reports, they can provide specific advice based on your pet’s health, breed, and travel destination. They can also prescribe medications for motion sickness or anxiety if needed.

5. Practice Runs

Acclimating your pet to travel conditions through short practice trips can reduce stress, advises Gulf Coast Veterinary Partners. This familiarizes them with the vehicle, travel crate, and the motion, making longer journeys more manageable.

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Keep your pet’s vaccination records handy during travel.

4. Feeding Precautions

Feeding your pet right before or during travel can cause discomfort or illness. As WebMD recommends, it’s best to feed them a few hours before setting off to prevent motion sickness or choking hazards. As well, always ensure access to water to keep them hydrated.

3. Carry Identification

Ensure your pet wears a collar with up-to-date ID tags and that their microchip information is current, reports Pets Best. In case they get lost, this will greatly aid in their safe return.

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20. Respect other travelers and public spaces while with your pet.

2. Comfort Items

Familiar items like a favorite toy or blanket can significantly reduce stress for your pet. These items carry the scent of home, providing reassurance in unfamiliar environments, reports Animal Care Center.

1. Pet Travel Kit

Prepare a kit with essentials like food, water, bowls, toys, waste bags, and any necessary medication, recommends PAWS Dog Daycare. This ensures you're prepared for any situation and can maintain your pet's routine, reducing their stress.

Adopting these practices not only ensures the safety and comfort of your pets but also contributes to a more enjoyable and stress-free travel experience for everyone involved.

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Keep a recent photo of your pet on hand in case they get lost.

Join the Safe Pet Travel Pledge

As responsible pet owners, it’s our duty to ensure our pets’ safety during travel. This National Pet Travel Safety Day, join the Safe Pet Travel Pledge. Click below and ensure a safer and more comfortable journey for your beloved pets.