Want to go for a ride? Those six little words are often music to a dog's ears. Whether you're bringing them to the local dog park or to visit friends and family, many dogs enjoy a road trip. You probably ensure that you and your family are buckled up before you go, but are you also keeping your pet safe when they are riding in the car with you?

Trips with Pets, the leading authority on pet travel and pet friendly hotels, conducted a poll to find out how many pet owners are securing their furry companions while on the road. 53% of the 765 respondents reported taking proper safety precautions, which is up from just 44% only two years ago. Many states now have pending legislation regarding the use of pet restraints in a vehicle, so if you currently have your dog or cat loose in your car, it's time to consider using one of the following methods: Vehicle Pet Barrier: This was the most popular pet travel restraint in the survey, cited to be used by 41% of pet owner respondents. These barriers are used in the cargo area of the vehicle, keeping your pet safely away from you and your passengers, and more importantly, away from the windshield in the event of an accident.

Pet Travel Crate: 32% of pet owners in the poll reported putting their pet in a travel crate or carrier while inside the car. Make sure it's well-ventilated and large enough for your pet to stand, sit, lie down, and turn around in. There are a variety of wire, mesh, hard plastic and soft-sided carriers available to fit your pet. If you're buddy hasn't been familiarized with a crate environment, it will be important to do so prior to heading out.

Pet Safety Belt: Buckle 'em up like 9% of the people in the survey do. Dog seat belts are made to easily slip onto your existing vehicle seat belt and acts as a harness to keep your pet safely in the seat in case there is a sudden stop or impact. It also keeps pets from distracting drivers.

Pet Car Seat: For smaller pets, pet travel car seats are the perfect answer when you're on the go, and are a good option for 8% of the survey respondents. Reminiscent of a booster seat, your pet is able to look out and see what is going on while your vehicle's own safety belt holds it in place. Your pet is secured in the car seat with a lead which is attached on to their harness.

Roaming Free is Not a Good Option: It's encouraging that owners travelling with their four-legged family members are trying to keep them safe, but 47% of the people who took the survey do not currently secure their pets in the car. Letting your pet have free reign in a vehicle or sit in your lap while driving can have serious consequences. Aside from the obvious implications during a crash, if the scared pet gets free from the car, he could wander out into the road or try to hamper the efforts of rescue workers. And although dogs love to stick their heads out windows, doing so can actually damage their eyes and ears, not to mention put them at risk of falling out. The same also applies to truck beds.

An unrestrained pet can multiply its weight by hundreds or even thousands of pounds during an automobile accident. Some vehicle accident statistics report loose objects, including pets, to be one of the top five reasons for automobile injuries. Don't put your beloved pet in harm's way when you take them for a ride.

There are more pets than people in the U.S. In fact, Americans own more pets than ever before. Approximately 62% of American households now own a pet, which is the highest level in recorded history. Approximately 78% of them are hitting the road and skies each year with their furry friends. This growing market has made itself known and the travel industry has responded as more and more accommodations across the U.S. are rolling out the red carpet for these travelling pets. To better understand the demands and habits of this booming market, an online survey of pet travellers was conducted and the results are in! When it comes to planning pet travel online, over 89% of the 2,012 pet travellers polled indicated that they do indeed go online and browse the websites of pet friendly accommodations. However, only 27% of respondents are comfortable booking their pet friendly accommodations online. Instead, most respondents prefer to call to book their room so that they can alert the lodging that they are travelling with their pet. Even given the growing number of pet friendly accommodations, you may be surprised to find that 34% of respondents have at some point snuck their pet into accommodations during their travels. Aside from the lodging not being pet friendly, other reasons for the sneak-ins include; their pet was too big, the accommodation did not accept their type of pet, cost was too much extra for their pet.

Not all pet friendly accommodations are created equal and pet travellers are well aware of this. A whopping 86% of respondents reported that they actually compare pet amenities offered by accommodations when selecting where to stay. On the top of the list of preferred amenities is pet sitting services. Although most accommodations don't offer these services themselves, they do provide guests with a directory of local pet sitters that will come to the lodging room to watch pet guests while their humans step out. Other preferred pet amenities that are at the top of discriminating pet travellers lists include; clean-up bags (23%) pet recreation listings (11%), in-room feed bowls (7%), and pet walking services (7%). It appears that pet travellers are willing to pay for these special amenities. Over 90% of respondents would pay extra to accommodate their animal companions with most willing to pay up to $50 per night and some actually willing to pay over $50 extra per night for their pets.

It is apparent that people love to vacation with their pets and care a great deal about accommodating them. Eighty-eight percent of respondents have stayed at a pet friendly accommodation at least once in the past 2 years. And pet travellers aren't afraid to venture far from home. Over 66% travel anywhere from 50 to 500 miles from home.

America's love affair with their pets is evident in their habits and preferences when it comes to travelling with their furry and four-legged companions. Their mounting numbers and financial muscle is destined to continue to raise the bar when it comes to pet travel.

If your travel plans include flying with your pet, one of the first and most important things to consider is the pet carrier. Getting the right carrier for your pet is essential and should not be a last minute purchase. Pets need ample time to adapt to their new "temporary" quarters.

When flying with your pet, the first decision to make is whether the carrier should be hard sided or soft sided. Very small dogs can typically fit in a carrier that will slide beneath the seat in front of you on the plane (inside the cabin). This means a soft sided carrier. The size of the carrier which will fit in this space is dependent upon the airline. Medium to large size pets need to travel beneath the cabin which means a hard sided carrier. The size of the pet carrier is very important. The proper sized carrier will allow your pet to stand up in the carrier, turn around and lie down. Many pet parents are tempted to "fit" their pet into a soft-sided carrier so they can bring their pet inside the cabin with them. This is a big mistake. Conversely, getting a carrier that is too big will not give your pet the security that it needs. In addition, be sure that the carrier you select has ample ventilation and is comfortable for your pet.

It's recommended to get a pet carrier for your pet well in advance of your trip so that they can get used to it, particularly if your pet is not used to a crate or carrier. This will minimize his or her stress during travel. To allow your pet to get accustomed to their new pet carrier, place the carrier in your home and put some of your pet's favorite toys or blanket it. Allow your pet to go in and out of the carrier at its leisure. The next step would be to put the carrier in your vehicle and place your pet in the carrier. Go on short drives, and then build up to longer ones. This will help your pet feel comfortable traveling in their new carrier.

Once you have selected the right carrier for your pet and they have acclimated to it, it's important to fit your pet with a collar that can't get caught in the carrier door. Affix two pieces of identification on the collar—a permanent ID with your name and home address and telephone number and a temporary travel ID with the address and telephone number where you or a contact person can be reached.

In addition, attach a travel label to the pet carrier with your name, permanent address and telephone number, final destination, and where you or a contact person can be reached as soon as the flight arrives.

It's also a good idea to make sure that your pet's nails have been clipped to protect against their hooking in the carrier's door, holes, and other crevices.

Following these guidelines will help to ensure that your pet is happy and safe on their flight.

Moving to a new home can be just as stressful on the family pet as it is on you. Here are some tips to keep your pet happy and safe on moving day.

- Maintain normal routine: Pack over a period of time and try to maintain your pet's normal routine. Advance planning will make your move less stressful.

- Keep your pet secure: Place your pet in a safe, quiet place, such as the bathroom or pet carrier on moving day so that he or she cannot escape. If you place your pet in a room, place a large sign on the door that says DO NOT ENTER. Containing your pet in a pet carrier on moving day will keep them safely confined as well. Gradually get them used to the carrier ahead of time by having your pet spend time in it prior to moving day.

- Purchase a new ID tag for your pet: Get a new pet ID tag that includes your new address and telephone number. An up-to-date ID tag is a lost pet's ticket home.

- Safe car travel: Be sure that your pet is safely restrained in the car. Utilizing a pet travel harness or travel carrier are the best ways to keep your pet safe. They not only protect your pet from injury, but they help by keeping them from distracting you with their usual enthusiasm as you drive. Keep their heads inside the windows, make frequent pit stops, and don't leave them alone. Pet barriers also work great!

- Talk to your pet's vet: Talk to your veterinarian about travelling with a pet who doesn't like to travel. They can recommend behaviour modification tactics or medication that might lessen the stress of travel. Depending on your new address, your pet may also need additional vaccinations, medications, and health certificates.

- Find pet friendly lodging in advance.

- Plan ahead for air travel: Check with your veterinarian and the airline if your pet will be flying. Familiarize yourself with the rules specific to the airline you are flying.

- Prepare your new home: Pets love familiar surroundings so be sure to take with you all the familiar and necessary things your pet will need from day one in your new home.

- Pet photo: Have a recent photo of your pet on hand if your pet becomes lost.

These tips can help ensure your pet is welcome, happy and safe in travelling to their new home. 
 

Kim Salerno is the President & Founder of TRIPSwithPETS.com.  She founded the pet travel site in 2003 and is an expert in the field of pet travel. Kim is a veteran of the travel industry - formerly serving as Director of Internet Marketing for Certified Vacations. Her mission is to ensure that pets are welcome, happy,and safe in their travels.  Visit her company website at http://www.tripswithpets.com

Source: http://www.submityourarticle.com

You're all packed and ready to hit the open road with Fido and Fluffy for your next travel adventure. Practicing some common sense rules of the road will help ensure that your precious pet has a happy and safe trip.

No heads out the window: Although many pets find that sticking their head out the window is the best part of the road trip, it's not safe. Your pet can easily be injured by flying debris. This should go without saying, but NEVER travel with a pet in the back of a pickup truck. Some states have laws restricting such transport and it is always dangerous.

Frequent pit stops: Always provide frequent bathroom and exercise breaks. Most travel service areas have designated areas for walking your pet. Be sure to stay in this area particularly when you pet needs a potty break...and of course, bring along a bag to pick up after your pet. When outside your vehicle, make sure that your pet is always on a leash and wearing a collar with a permanent and temporary travel identification tag.

Proper hydration: During your pit stops be sure to provide your pet with some fresh water to wet their whistle. Occasionally traveling can upset your pet's stomach. Take along ice cubes, which are easier on your pet than large amounts of water.

Watch the food intake: It is recommended that you keep feeding to a minimum during travel. Be sure to feed them their regular pet food and resist the temptation to give them some of your fast food burger or fries (that never has a good ending).

Don't leave them alone: Never leave your pet unattended in a parked vehicle. On warm days, the temperature in your vehicle can rise to 120 degrees in minutes, even with the windows slightly open. In addition, an animal left alone in a vehicle is an open invitation to pet thieves.

Practice restraint: Be sure that your pet is safely restrained in your vehicle. Utilizing a pet safety harness or travel kennel are the best ways to keep your pet safe. They not only protect your pet from injury, but they help by keeping them from distracting you as you drive. A safety harness functions like a seatbelt. While most pets will not have a problem adjusting to it, you may want to let them wear the harness by itself a few times before using it in the vehicle. If your pet prefers a travel kennel, be sure it is well ventilated and stabilized. Many pet owners prefer vehicle barriers, particularly for larger pets. Vehicle barriers are best suited for SUVs. No matter what method you choose, back seat travel is always safer for your pet.

Safe and comfortable: Whatever method you choose to properly restrain your pet in your vehicle, be sure to make their comfort a priority. Just as it's important for your "seat" to be comfortable for your long road trip, your pet's seat should be comfortable too. Typically their favourite blanket or travel bed will do the trick. There are also some safe and very cozy pet car seats available that your pet may find quite comfy.

Pet friendly accommodations etiquette: If your journey's itinerary requires an overnight stay along the way at a pet friendly accommodation, there are a number of tips to consider.

• Get a ground floor room to make bathroom runs easier.
• At check-in, inquire about areas to walk your pet.
• Cover any furniture and beds your pet will be allowed on.
• Place litter boxes in the bathroom to make clean up easier
• Avoid leaving your pet alone in the room. Even the best behaved pets can bark and become destructive when in a new environment. If your plans require you to stay for a longer period of time, inquire about local pet sitters or pet day care. If your pet's demeanour is such that you are able to leave them alone for a short period of time, be sure to alert the front desk. It also may help to put the TV or radio on to keep your pet comfortable, and place a note on your door indicating that your precious pet is inside.
• Always keep your pet on a leash and refrain from taking them into the lodging dining areas.
• And of course...always clean up after your pet after bathroom runs

Following some basic rules during road travel will help to make your journey with your little one much more enjoyable and safe!

Kim Salerno is the President & Founder of TRIPSwithPETS.com. She founded the pet travel site in 2003 and is an expert in the field of pet travel. Her popular pet travel site features pet friendly hotels & accommodations across the United States, along with other helpful pet travel resources. Her mission is to ensure that pets are welcome, happy, and safe in their travels.