Have pet - will travel!

Travelling and wanting to take Fido?  The world of travel varies so of course there are times where taking a pet may be necessary and other times where it's not appropriate. As the traveller you must weigh this decision before proceeding with arrangements.

Once you've decided that Fido are Fluffy are coming with you; what do you need to know? Who do you call? Are there any vaccines needed for your pet to travel? Special requirements? So many questions!
 
Of course, first and foremost, check with your vet. Make sure your animal is physically and mentally fit for travel. This is a great time to also ask your vet if your pet requires any vaccines or medications. There are some countries that do require certain vaccinations and/or a quarantine time upon arrival. Your vet, along with the embassy of the country you're heading to will be able to answer your questions about these requirements.
 
So Fluffy and Fido have been cleared to head out! Of course if you're driving then you will know your animal best and can plan your road trip accordingly.

Travelling by train in Canada is quite limited. However pets are allowed on VIA Rail. To review the stipulations click this link : http://www.viarail.ca/en/useful-info/baggage/travelling-pets
 
What about flying? The simple answer is to call your Travel Agent or the airline directly. Each airline has specific rules and regulations with regard to pets travelling. Pets can travel, however whether in cabin or cargo depends on size and weight. Here are a few of the general guidelines followed by the majority of airlines.

If your pet will be travelling with you in the cabin or in the baggage compartment, you'll need to register your pet in advance and there will be fees charged to confirm your pet's reservation.  Pets that have not been registered in advance are usually not accepted at the airport. It is recommend that you register your pet within 24 hours of completing your booking. If your pet cannot be accommodated on the flight and date you've selected, your ticket can then be changed. Keep in mind not all flights allow pets, and there are restrictions as to how many animals are allowed on each flight.
All pets, either in cabin or cargo, must be contained in an airline approved carrier or they will not be accepted on the flight. Remember: if your cat or small dog is in the cabin with you it must be small enough to fit and stay comfortably in its carrier under the seat in front of you. You will have to provide the airline with some information such as pet's name, breed, weight and the dimensions of the carrier the pet will be transported in.

Airlines are sensitive to the concerns of allergy sufferers, and they understand that some of their customers may not wish to be seated too close to a cat or small dog during their flight. For this reason, if you are an allergy sufferer, you're asked to advise the check-in agent or gate agent prior to your flight's departure to ensure you are not next to a customer travelling with a pet.
 
To book your Fido Friendly Flight, call your Favourite Travel Agent !!

Photo: Contributed

 
PLEASE NOTE: Rules for service animals (such as Seeing Eye Dogs) are different. The airline or Travel Agent will have more information for you.      

This article is written by or on behalf of an outsourced columnist and does not necessarily reflect the views of Castanet.