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Thinking of taking your hamster, guinea pig, mouse, or rat with you on a trip or family vacation? Follow these guidelines from your Aurora veterinarian to keep your pocket pet safe and sound for the duration of your travels.

Method of Travel

Before leaving on your trip, consider how you’re going to get where you’re going. Generally speaking, car travel is the easiest and safest way to travel with a pocket pet. Traveling by airplane or train may be trickier. First of all, not all airlines and train companies allow pets at all. Even if they do, you may be required to keep your pet in a cage in a storage area, instead of with you. Do some research to find out the rules and regulations regarding your travel method of choice.

Pack Your Supplies

Of course, you’ll need to check and double check that you’ve packed all necessary supplies that your pet will need. Make sure your pet is kept in a safe carrier that is properly secured in your car. Pack food and water, dishes, bedding material, toys, chewing items, and any other items your pet may require. Check with your veterinarian to make sure you’re not forgetting anything essential.

Medical Needs

Consider the specific medical needs of your pocket pet before planning your trip. Animals with illness, disease, chronic health problems, or those recovering from a health issue may in fact be better off left at home. The stress of travel might be more trouble than it’s worth for your pocket pet.

If your pet is in good health, pack a small first-aid kit with medical essentials. Your veterinarian can recommend what to put in your kit.

Check Your Destination

It’s important to check the destination you’re traveling to. Many hotels and motels don’t allow pets of any kind. Don’t forget to check with friends or relatives you may be staying with to ensure they’re comfortable with an additional furry houseguest. You don’t want to reach your destination safely only to realize your pet isn’t welcome!

Set up an appointment with your Aurora veterinarian to make sure your pet is healthy enough for traveling, and ask for more tips on safe pocket pet travel.