Netglobers

The first and most fundamental consideration in hiking with a dog is to remember that there are many types of hikes and immense variations on dog sizes, types and abilities – making it a mistake to lock in on one mindset of what “hiking with a dog” even means. Let’s start off by agreeing that the term “hiking” means different things to different people. There is no wrong way to approach a hike with your dog and the possibilities to approach this are endless.

Consider Breed, Size and Abilities

The type of dog, its breed and size will all have bearing on what the actual dog hike might look like. There is a plethora of questions to consider. Is the dog a candidate to be a pack dog or not? Is the relationship between the owner and pet suitable for the pet to follow commands? Is the dog generally energetic and up for any new physical challenge or is it more of a pooch who is a proverbial lounging couch potato – looking for a spot to take a nice nap? Is this a wolf breed (like a German shepherd) that is genetically geared for what we typically envision as a good hiking dog? Or is it instead a little Dachshund with short legs and long body – making its low undercarriage a difficult hurdle in almost any terrain with clearance issues? All of these considerations will help define what particular “hike” we are speaking of here.

Remember, we certainly don’t have to adhere to some vision of a large long-legged breed bounding over the tops of bushes and sage brush – surging ahead of its owner to reach the summit. A hiking scenario that falls short of that picture should not be discounted. A revised type of hike that meets the specific needs of the pet is more than suitable.

Variations on Hiking

The most important consideration is that the owner and dog get an outing, each get exercise and enjoy a new experience. This can be accommodated in a great many ways. Small dogs, aged dogs or generally inactive dogs can be accommodated by selecting less challenging hiking paths. There are also many tools to help make hikes enjoyable even if they don’t have the stamina to go the entire distance. Many small dogs can enjoy a hike if they have an option to be carried in a dog perch backpack in an outdoor setting or in a stroller where the terrain allows. Brachycephalic breeds overheat more easily so small accommodations can make hiking within limits possible rather than not hiking at all.

Don’t Forget the Usual Pet Accommodations

Whether the type of hike is in a rustic outdoor setting where the owner and pet are sleeping in a tent and careening over challenging terrain – or it consists of a day hike on a groomed trail in a city park…never forget to prepare for the basics. For the pet’s safety and comfort, it warrants thinking ahead and anticipating basic things you’ll need to take along. It’s always a good idea to make a mental journey through the trip to jog your memory on details of needed items you may have forgotten. Regardless of where you hike, the pet will need:

• water (a safe fresh source): bring a water bottle if necessary
• food & Snacks
• collar and leash
• ID Tags and Vaccination/Rabies Tag
• sweater/Rain protection Gear
• pet bed or sleeping pad

Unless a pet weighs 15 lbs. or less, it is not eligible to fly in-cabin with its owner and will need to fly either as checked baggage or cargo. As is true with anything that flies these days, there are arduous rules and limitations. For the most part, rules which regulate flying animal passengers as well as the containers and conditions they are allowed to fly in have been created by the International Air Transport Association (IATA). Overall, the IATA standards are widely respected and adopted by the world’s airlines. However, it is not 100% standardized at this point. To view individual airlines’ requirements, go to www.pettravel.com. This handy resource allows you to individually look at over 160 airlines’ requirements.

Minimum Requirements

Whether the pet will be flying as checked baggage or as cargo, it will be in a temperature controlled and pressurized compartment – safely just beneath the cabin where the humans are. With the exception of Southwest, AirTran, JetBlue, Frontier and Virgin America – most airlines accept lives animals on board as cargo and have specific provisions and conditions for handling them. Cargo animal crates must be IATA compliant and may need to meet additional standards – dependent upon which airline is involved.

Crate Requirements:

• Crates must be large enough for the pet to stand up and re-position itself comfortably in order to be compliant. For snub nosed dogs with a propensity of breathing and respiratory problems – (officially referred to as Brachycephalic breeds), it is required that the size be increased by one additional size.
• There are stipulations of the material used for construction of the crate. It must be made of fiberglass, metal, rigid plastics, weld metal mesh, solid wood or plywood. Please note: not all airlines accept wooden crates. Always verify with individual airlines to be certain.
• The floor of the crate must be solid and leak-proof.
• Handles or space bars must be present of the long side of the crate for handling.
• The crate door must have a spring loaded locking system with pins extending at least 1.6 cm (5/8 in) beyond the horizontal extrusions both above and below the door. In many cases, airlines will additionally require that cable ties be used at each corner to further reinforce (ensuring it remains closed during flight).
• Doors must be constructed of material strong enough so that a pet cannot bend them. The door should be nose and paw proof to ensure the pet is not injured in any way.
• Crate must be of sturdy construction and collapsible crates are not acceptable.

• The crate must have ventilation on a minimum of two sides for domestic flights and 4 sides if international. The total ventilated area must be at least 16% of the total surface of the four sides. Piercing the kennel to create additional holes on the roof or sides is permitted as long as it does not affect the strength of the crate.
• The crate must have “LIVE ANIMAL” stickers on both the tops and sides of the container and must be at least one inch tall. There must also be a sticker on the top of the crate stating when your pet was last watered and fed.
• No Wheels are allowed. They should be removed or taped to ensure crate cannot roll.
• Crate must be identified with the pet’s name as well as the owner’s contact information.
• If the pet’s weight exceeds 132 lbs. (60 kg), forklift spacers must be provided. Remember, these are the base IATA requirements. Consult the specific airline for exact requirements.

When leaving a pet is not an option, traveling with them can be an incredible adventure. Instead of going in blindly on a trip, prepare for it by following some general tips.

1. Before traveling, visit the veterinarian; they can provide safe and alternative ways to keep a pet calm, safe and happy during travel.
2. No pet wants to be in a cage too long, so while in the car, let them out. However, do not forget to buckle them in. It is not safe to let them roam within the car. Try to make your pet’s cage as comfortable as possible.
3. If staying in a hotel, call ahead to make sure they accept pets. Some hotels have a pet weight limit just like apartments. Travelpets and Petswelcome websites offer free lookup services for pet-friendly destinations.
4. The same goes for airplanes as well. If not booking through a travel agent, call ahead to the airlines and find out the fees and weight limits. Pettravel helps with airline policies, passports and other vital information.
5. Always attach pet information: Name, Address, Owner’s name and telephone number, to the pet carrier. Do not forget to make sure that the pet’s ID tag is attached securely to the collar.
6. A USDA approved kennel is important to have to ensure the safety of your pet when traveling. It is important that when traveling, the pet has enough room to stand and lay down. IATA.org has more information on how to calculate the correct dimensions.
7. Lastly, the pet should have a travel kit. Just as humans need emergency supplies, pets need them as well.

First Aid Travel Kit for Dogs

Here are some items to include in the first aid kit:

• Car seat/ seat belt
• Travel bed
• Dog food bowl
• Watering system
• Medicine
• Treats
• Chew toy
• Life Jacket
• Pet walker (leash, backpack)
• Cleaning supplies: brush, sanitary bags and pet sprays
• Sleep aids if necessary

Summary: Traveling with Dogs

Before making a long trip, it is wise to test each pet. Start out slow with a 20-mile journey. During this voyage, take note on how the pet acts. Some questions to ask while observing the animal:

• Is the pet antsy?
• Do they just lay there, scared?
• Are they uncontrollable?

If the answer is yes to any of these questions, it is important to face these issues head on before taking any other trips. For a scared or antsy pet, bring things from home that makes them comfortable. Those pets that are uncontrollable, may have to ride in their carrier to keep them calm enough to make the trip. Don’t forget to take a break in between to give your dog a run.

Once the first test is done and any issues that come up are corrected, try again. On the next test, a longer time should be tested, preferably going for about two hours. Remember, to ask those questions each time, to see how the pet does. If the second go around is successful, traveling with a pet should not be an issue. However, be ready in case things do not go as planned.

For most pet owners, the initial thought of being thrilled that you can take your pet along with you in-cabin on the flight is almost immediately followed by visions of a nightmare scenario – fearing how disastrous that endeavor might actually be. Going through security gates and check in process can hold anxiety if traveling without a pet. Trying to imagine all the usual issues while finagling a pet can be a daunting thought to say the least.

Then there are the worries about getting that pet carrier neatly and snugly under the seat in front of you in a manner that is both comfortable for the pet and not offensive to other passengers. Lastly, there’s that tendency for the pet to be particularly squirmy and anxious when the plane is on the runway taxying for takeoff. The solution can be found by making the carrier as comfortable as possible. Let’s discuss how.

Make the Carrier a Friendly Place

The worst scenario is springing a carrier on the pet for the first time on the day of travel. Since the pet can’t ride on the owner’s lap, the carrier needs to substitute as the next best thing. The noises, movement and experiences on the plane will naturally be a very unsettling experience for the little critter. Every step should be taken to make that all important carrier a familiar and reassuring place to be. To the degree possible, the carrier should have a positive affiliation to the pet as a new travel home.

Making the Carrier Familiar

Using the pet carrier on the day of a scheduled flight should be one among many experiences the dog has already had in his/her carrier. It will make the carrier all that more alluring if it is associated with places that are favorites and experiences that the pet adores – like taking her to a favorite store and getting extra dog treats or an outing to an off-the-leash park. To add positive associations, try tossing favorite treats into the carrier, taking opportunities to give her special loves and tickles while inside the carrier and making certain to include the carrier in game time. Making the carrier a non-threatening and safe place to be will make it a calming factor on the day of travel.

Soft, Comforting Smells, Tastes & Textures

Beyond getting the carrier to be a source of comfort and connection, the items inside the carrier can also increase comfort and lessen anxiety. Any toys or favorite items can serve as a distraction to help curb the canine’s nerves. If the pet is a chewer, be certain to provide a rawhide bone or favorite item to chew. Smells can also be crucial. Since the pet will be on the floor in the seat in front of the owner, a soft garment- even a worn-out t-shirt that smells like the owner can reassure the pet. And in the absence of the owner’s arms, sneaking a few fingers inside the pet carrier to give the critter a few reassuring strokes will go a long way to calm anxious nerves.

Preparations on the Day of Travel

Make certain to give the dog a long walk before you leave for the airport. If you want to give an extra measure for relaxation, consider a spritz of lavender spray. You might also consider other sprays to relax your pet during flight (Comfort Zone with DAP or Rescue Remedy Pet). Quite often, the dog is anxious just before takeoff. Once in flight, most dogs become calm and fall asleep.

When a pet owner travels, it always presents the gut wrenching dilemma of what to do with a loved pet. The proposition of leaving the pet behind in a kennel, asking a friend to “pet sit” or using those upscale doggie hotels that most of us don’t consider affordable – are not attractive options. Perhaps there’s another possibility. Consider taking the dog with you the next time to fly.

Plan Ahead

Being able to take a small dog in-cabin on a plane is a huge relief to many pet owners. Expect to have the best possible outcome if time is allotted to think ahead, make plans and take appropriate action. If a pet is to ride on the plane in-cabin, there are requirements to consider.

Carrier Requirements

The pet must be able to comfortably fit in a pet carrier that will fit beneath the seat in front of you on the plane. Generally, a pet more than 15 lbs. is too large to qualify. An appropriate carrier should be FAA approved and be no larger than 17” x 12” x 8”. Soft-sided carriers are preferable as they can be squished and made to fit into the available space. As long as the pet is comfortable, can re-position itself while enclosed in the case and can breathe properly, the pet carrier will be suitable for the pet as well as satisfactory from the airline’s point of view.

Tickets & Reservations

There will be two distinct steps in making the airline reservations if intending to fly in-cabin with a pet.

1. For the owner and any other human travelers, booking a flight will involve the very same process that travelers are accustomed to. The traditional approach of calling the airline, going online to the airline’s website, using a travel agent or using one of the online based travel services to reserve and book your flight just as you normally would be step 1.
2. Now for Step 2: Buying a ticket for the Four-legged friend. Once a ticket is secured for the pet owner, using the reservation or confirmation number for the owner’s flight will make it possible to secure a companion ticket for the pet. By simply contacting the airline’s toll-free number, you can make additional flight arrangements for your pet. Please note, there are usually limitations on how many pets that will be allowed on any given flight. This limit not only includes pets flying in-cabin, but also service dogs for handicapped flyers.

Keep in mind: To ensure the pet gets in under the maximum number of pets allowed, it’s wise to make flight arrangements as far in advance as possible. A fee will be charged for the pet to travel in-cabin. The fee is waived for service or therapy dogs.

Packing for Pup

To be amply prepared for any outcome, items should be packed both for the flight as well as layover or wait times in the airport. In order to have everything you need for your pet – at the time it’s needed, it’s wise to pack items both in your check in luggage and in your carry-on. Among the general items, you’ll need to pack are:

• at least one to two meals worth of food
• favorite treats, chew toys and snacks
• travel food and water bowls
• leash and collar
• dog tags, license and dated vaccination documents
• portable dog bed
• any medications or supplements
• disposable dog waste sacks
• water bottle (can be filled once you’re through security check in)

Last but certainly not least, once on the plane and settled, a few affectionate strokes might be just what’s needed to seal the deal.

Flying with animals can be tricky; however, airlines and the federal agencies that govern the airways, have set rules and regulations to help streamline the process. Keeping to the laws, can ensure that pets are safely transported through the air.

• Make advanced arrangements with the airline.
• Food and water administered within four hours of the trip.
• Pet carriers must have “LIVE ANIMAL” written on all sides and top.
• Do not give the animal any sleep aids or tranquilizers.

Each airline may set their rules and regulations within reason. Some airlines have even gone as far as setting up frequent pet flyer programs.

Flyer Programs

Jetpaws from JetBlue gives frequent flyers, 300 points per trip that never expire. Virgin Atlantic rewards pets by giving frequent flyers, 1,000 points that help build up to free international flights. Although Continental only gives one point per dollar spent on a pet flying in cargo space, they give customers the ability to track their pet in real time.

Airlines

The best policy when booking a flight is to call the airline. It is inadvisable to go in blindly, because of the fees and certain restrictions each carrier has set. Below are a few examples of how different the charges can be.
AirTran was bought out by Southwest Airlines. However, they still have their rules for flying with pets that differ from Southwest. Animals are not allowed in the cargo area. The carrier for the pet must be able to fit under the seat, and the animal must not be sick. There is a pet and carrier weight restriction of 40 pounds or less and the fee for the animal is $65 for one-way.

• Allegiant: If flying within the mainland of the United States, pets may ride in the cabin with the passenger. Pets are not allowed out of the carrier, and there is a $100 fee for each way.

• American Airlines: Each aircraft has its policy, however if a pet is allowed to ride in the cabin, it must be a small pet. The pet must be at least eight weeks old, be sickness free and in a carrier. A charge of $125 for carry-on pets will apply.

• Delta: Depending upon the location, a pet to carry on, will cost between $75 and $250. Not all countries are permitted to have a pet in the cabin of the flight.

• jetBlue: The pet may ride in the cabin, as long as, the pet carrier and pet does not exceed 20 pounds. There is a $100 one-way fee that is non-refundable.

• Southwest: When traveling within the United States, pets may ride in the cabin, but they must be a small cat or dog. There is a $95 one-way fee for all pets.

Remember, call ahead to make sure pets are allowed, get all of the pertinent details so that planning the family vacation can be done without problems. Do not forget to sign up for frequent flyer miles and use them. Lastly, do not hesitate to ask for special accommodations when it comes to a service animal.

Etiquette is key to everything humans do in life – this includes traveling as well. As a guest at someone’s home, a person would not belch out loud without saying “excuse me” or, at least, showing remorse for the act. The same goes for families with animals. Manners are a must in order to keep civility.

Code of Conduct

Bear in mind, that business do not have to allow pets into their establishment, but some do, be nice to those that allow it. Make sure that the animal is trained, it would be highly rude to allow the animal to run amuck. While all dogs are not service dogs, their code of training is of the highest standard. International Association of Assistance Dog Partners (IAADP) sets standards for allowing trained animals public access. While most pet owners do go to obedience training with their animals, it is a good rule of thumb to follow some of the manner tips:

• Aggressive behavior is not tolerated
• Do not allow others to pet or feed the animal
• The animal should calmly walk on a leash
• A specific command should be given to allow the animal to use the restroom in a public

The IAADP also encourages owners to test their animal. It is important that the animal knows different sites, people and venues before going out for a trip.

General Rules

Having a set schedule for animals can assist in keeping things orderly. One of the things that sets a dog off quickly is not getting fed on time or being allowed to go to the restroom. It is important that a pet and its owner know the routine. An owner should always pick up after the animal has used the bathroom.

Another general rule to follow is, leash and signage laws within the city the family will be visiting. Many states prohibit animals from running around freely. Therefore, before booking a hotel and setting out on the journey, know all the answers. For example, Minnesota is a state that allows any person to impound any unlicensed dog running around without a leash. While Arizona only requires dogs to be restrained by a leash, in a car, cage or enclosure device near a park or public school. For more information, go to Animallaw.

Speaking of calling ahead, make sure the hotel and place of business that will be used, are pet-friendly. Every hotel has pet policies and can be found on their websites. For example, Holiday Inn Express in Kilgore, TX allows service animals only. However, Even Hotels, another Intercontinental Hotel Groups hotel, requires a $75 deposit to allow service animals only.

One last thing, respect other people’s space, the worst thing is to cause someone with an allergy to pet dander, to go into shock. Do not walk in a location without knowing that pets are allows. Individual stores like Old Navy, Bebe, Free People, Gap, Restoration Hardware, Home Depot and LUSH Cosmetics are pet-friendly. An excellent resource for pet-friendly locations in Canada and worldwide is www.care.com.

Traveling can be a rewarding experience, especially with the animals along for the ride. Canada is a vast country with beautiful destinations and wonderful entertainment. Pet-friendly areas can make the journey to Canada special. Although, certain steps and precautions should be handled before going on the trip.

Crossing the Border

Just as a human needs a passport and proper vaccinations, so does the pet. In general, the dog will need to have a rabies vaccination certificate in English or French, identification of what type of animal it is, date of immunization, trade name, the serial number of licensed vaccine and duration of immunity. The pet will also need a medical certification of health, stating the pet is healthy and has no diseases.

Once at the border, be prepared to show proper papers and to go through an inspection. There are two fees associated with the inspection:

• Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CIFA)
• Non-vaccinated pets

Therefore, if bringing in pet food, be sure that it follows regulations. The Health of Animals Regulations has set the following standards:

• Pet food needs to be under 44 pounds
• Dog food made in the United States is permissible.
• The pet must be with owner at the time of entry

Another thing that is wise to know, is the restricted breed list. Ontario and Toronto, Canada does not allow: Pit Bull Terriers, American Staffordshire Terriers and Staffordshire Terriers.

Suggestions of Great Places to Stay in Canada

A family vacation is unique when traveling with a pet. Canada offers many hotels and attractions that are pet-friendly. The country in whole tries to accommodate a family with pets, so that the vacation is enjoyable.

• Nova Scotia: 
  Offers multiple hotels that are pet-friendly and two wonderful pets welcomed attractions. Point Pleasant Park is an “off the leash” park, where the pets get to roam freely, while the family gets to enjoy the views of the ocean. When the family is ready to eat, bring the pet along and eat at The Foggy Goggle. They allow pets on the patio as well as provide chew toys.
• British Columbia:
  Another magnificent destination is Victoria. This city has 47 hotels, 12 attractions and 10 restaurants that are pet-friendly. High End Dog, a bakery, which caters to dogs is one stop not to miss on the family adventures. Take a hike at Admiralty Point, which is an easy hiking trail that takes an hour and a half to finish.
• Alberta:
  Offers many attractions for pets throughout the area. For dogs that like to run freely, The Oxbows Off Leash Dog Park, is one of many parks to scour.

No matter where the family decides to head off to in Canada, there are plenty of adventures waiting. More information for a pet-friendly trip to Canada can be found at PetFriendly.ca. Just remember to take care of the necessary items like rabies certification and pet kits before heading out of town. Lastly, do not forget to test to make sure the pet can handle the long distance trip and take all your necessities like travel dishes along with you.