Many treat their pets as an integral part of their family. But a plan for their holiday invariably makes them look for pet-care centers.

Airlines cater for pets to travel in their cargo or cabin with their owners. For cabin travel, the pet should fit in to a carrier comfortably. This can be pushed beneath the seat. One should check and make reservations for the pet at the same time as the passenger, lest one may end up leaving the pet behind or rescheduling their own flight. ‘Petairways’ has made pet travel more affordable. The pet can travel comfortably in the cabin as compared to the travel in a cargo.

Check if the destination suits the pet, and if the accommodation caters for the pet. Most holiday destinations and accommodations therein which are listed in websites make a mention regarding their policies concerning pets.

Check the animal quarantine policies of the destination country and have the pet vaccinated if necessary. A medical certification from an authorized veterinary doctor will have to be carried on person to certify good health and record of vaccination of the pet. This should not be dated more than 10 days prior journey. The option of sedating the pet should be done after consulting the vet for the suitable medicine and dosage.

Lastly, one must make sure to feed and give water to the pet within 4 hours of commencement of journey. This is a government rule. Be sure not to over-feed them. Ensure that the carrier of the pet is tagged with a pouch containing food to cater for any delays in the journey.