Webvet Pets & Travel Feed

Webvet Pets & Travel Feed http://www.webvet.com/main/showArticles/page/13 This feed contains articles about Pets & Travel en-us Copyright 2009 Webvet, LLC 2009-11-07T11:20-05:00 advertise@webvet.com advertise@webvet.com Pets & Travel hourly Pet Airways: Only pets allowed http://www.webvet.com/main/article?id=2259 <a href="http://www.webvet.com/main/article?id=2259">Pet Airways: Only pets allowed</a>   When Zach, a nine-year-old, 60-pound <a href="http://webvet.com/breeds/show/id/331" target="_blank" title="Stafforshire Terrier breed information">Staffordshire Terrier</a>, bounded off a Pet Airways plane in Los Angeles last September, he had a chew toy in his mouth and a spring in his step. Zach was being reunited with Eileen Barber, his companion since he was a year old. Barber had been forced to give Zach up when she relocated from Williamsburg, Va., to San Diego and her new landlord -- at first -- would not allow pets. Fortunately for both owner and pet, the landlord eventually relented and Barber looked forward to bringing Zach - who had been living in a shelter -- to her new home. But a 10-day roundtrip journey by car was out of the question, so Teri Parkhouse -- manager of Ring Dog Rescue, the shelter that had been caring for Zach -- looked into the possibility of flying him in the cargo hold of a commercial airline. "Zach had been through a lot," Parkhouse said. We were concerned it would be too stressful for him to fly commercial". After much investigation, Parkhouse discovered <a href="http://www.petairways.com/">Pet Airways</a>, a Florida-based airline that describes itself as "a pet-only airline dedicated to pet-friendly travel." <h4>Pet Airways takes wing </h4> Founded by start-up business consultants Alysa Binder and husband Dan Wiesel, Pet Airways launched July 14 with weekly flights between the Chicago, Denver, Los Angeles, New York City, and Baltimore/Philadelphia/Washington, D.C. areas -- cities with significant numbers of pet passengers. Binder, who now serves as Pet Airways' executive vice president, said she expects that the airline will serve 25 cities in the next couple of years. Binder and Wiesel were inspired to found Pet Airways because of the trauma that their Jack Russell Terrier, Zoe, experienced while flying in the cargo hold of a flight from San Francisco to Del Ray Beach, Fla., when the couple relocated. "Zoe was shook up by the flight across the country," Binder said. "Zoe had been a gregarious little dog, full of energy. But immediately after the flight, she just wasn't," Binder said.  This is when Binder and Wiesel knew they had to come up with an alternative solution for pet travel. Pet Airways employs a fleet of 19 human-passenger, climate-controlled Beech 1900 turbo-prop planes especially refitted to accommodate up to 50 dogs and cats. The airline's "pawsengers" fly in secure carriers in comfortably maintained passenger cabins -- from which the seats and overhead bins have been removed -- rather than in cramped cargo holds. Binder said her research showed that 76 million cats and dogs travel with their owners each year, but relatively few fly on airplanes. Only an estimated two million pets a year fly the nation's airways -- under seats, if they're small enough, or in cargo holds if they're not. "This is not surprising considering the appalling conditions under which most pets must travel," Binder said. "Although many airlines allow small pets to travel with their owners, stowed under the seat, most airlines will accept only one or two pets per flight. Pets that are too big to fit under the seat are relegated to cargo, and unfortunately in many cases, are treated as such." <h4>Why do people choose Pet Airways? </h4> Binder cited five reasons people choose to fly their pets on Pet Airways: 1. Relocation 2. Vacation 3. Visiting relatives 4. Dog and cat shows 5. Pet rescue and adoption She said that Pet Airways aims to be price-competitive with the human airlines. As with human flights, Pet Airways' ticket prices vary according to flight length and destination; in addition, the larger the pet, the higher the fare. For example, according to information on Pet Airways' website, two representative, mid-week round-trip fares were as follows: 1) $449 between New York and LA, for a dog weighing 51-75 lbs. and standing up to 21" in height; 2) $299 between Chicago and Denver for a cat weighing not more than 20 lbs. and standing up to 11" in height. <h4>The flying experience</h4> Pets must be dropped off at Pet Airways' airport lounge no later than two hours before take-off. Owners may, however, drop them off up to 72 hours before flying, in which case they will be boarded at the Airlines' "PAWS Lodge" until flight time. Binder said that Pet Airways' passengers have a different sort of experience on her planes than on commercial airliners. Pets fly in carriers supplied by the airline based on their size. The carriers are carefully secured to ensure the animals' comfort and safety. A "pet attendant"-- a <a href="http://www.webvet.com/main/article/id/1471/med/0" target="_blank" title="Vet technician">veterinary technician</a> -- monitors and checks on the dogs and cats on board every 15 minutes. Pets are given regular "potty breaks" after disembarking. Binder emphasized that pets are never left unattended in a warehouse or on a ramp. Throughout the duration of their pet's journey, pet owners can check on the status of their flight on Pet Airways' website. <h4>Less stress</h4> Binder said that Pet Airways' goal is to make flying pets as stress-free as possible, both for pets and pet parents. If the experience of Zach and his owner are typical, then the new airline is well on its way to accomplishing that goal.           By Howard Wolinsky for WebVet By Howard Wolinsky for WebVet Pets & Travel The journeys of Hope, Winston and Maddie http://www.webvet.com/main/article?id=1970 <a href="http://www.webvet.com/main/article?id=1970">The journeys of Hope, Winston and Maddie</a> Plenty of challenges arise while traveling with pets but a crafty few know how to manage the difficulties of bringing along a dog or cat. Back in 1992, when hotels and motels weren't always so pet friendly, Hope Schultz had a strategy. She checked in at the front desk. Meanwhile, her traveling partner, Lynn, cruised around back with Hope's two beloved sheepdogs, Winston and Maddie."We'd sneak 'em in and sneak 'em out,'' recalls Hope, the owner of WebVet. While they were all in the room, Hope spent plenty of time telling the pups to "shh'' so they wouldn't be caught and sent packing.Among the many trips that Hope has taken with pets, this was one of the grandest. It was a drive along old Route 66, an adventure the old American way. She and Lynn set out from Laguna Beach, Calif., both wearing scarves tied around their heads."We thought we were Thelma and Louise,'' Hope says with a laugh.In a Jeep with the luggage tied to the roof with a bungee cord -- they hadn't stopped to think how much room the sheepdogs would take up inside the car -- the women headed east through rain, sleet and snow. The weather became so daunting that highway authorities demanded that the women put chains on the car tires. But nothing was going to stop this adventure.The dogs (Winston weighed 125 pounds; Maddie, 75) stayed in the far back part of the jeep. Maddie, who Hope fondly recalls as "rather neurotic,'' had been given some "doggie valium'' to help her deal with the separation anxiety she suffered being so far from Hope -- all the way up there in the driver's seat.Winston, for his part, was content to just gaze through the window and watch the world go by.In the motel, Maddie slept in the bed with Hope, naturally. She would settle for being with no one else. Winston, on the other hand, was easier to please. "Winston was happy to be in anybody's bed,'' Hope said.Along the journey, the crew arrived in Nashville. Hope ended up taking a job there in the advertising business. She stayed for 18 months. The two wonderful pups died many years ago. "It makes me cry every time I talk about it,'' Hope said.In 1994, Hope made the long haul from North Carolina to Chicago. On this trip, she was accompanied by her current pets, Max, a mix she describes as "a Disney dog,'' and Pi, a Quaker parrot.With Pi in a traveling case and Max in the back seat, they would pull off at McDonald's for eggs and McMuffins for everyone.In the car, Hope listened to plenty of Norah Jones and Lyle Lovett. Max was fine with anything she wanted to hear. "He's pretty music neutral,'' she said.Their stay at a Westin Hotel in Indianapolis, meanwhile, showed how times have changed when it comes to hospitality for pets."I walked into the lobby with a leash in one hand and a bird cage in the other,'' Hope said, "and the hotel staff absolutely loved it -- they were fascinated.''They asked Hope if she had any special pet needs, and promptly sent up a "Heavenly Dog Bed.'' That night, they ordered room service for three. Max and Pi had scrambled eggs. Hope had a cheeseburger and a glass of wine. Photo: Hope and Max By Dirk Johnson for WebVet By Dirk Johnson for WebVet Pets & Travel "Guaranteed on Board" with American Airlines http://www.webvet.com/main/article?id=2248 <a href="http://www.webvet.com/main/article?id=2248">"Guaranteed on Board" with American Airlines</a>   When Lauren Burniac walked by the Union Square Petco in New York City, the store announced that in five minutes it would draw the winners of a raffle for a promotional, roundtrip, all-expenses paid vacation to Miami for some lucky pet parents and their pet. When she entered and won, she and her five-month-old <a href="http://www.webvet.com/breeds/show/id/300" target="_blank" title="Pug breed information">Pug</a>, Olive, had to scramble to be ready to leave that very day. The trip marked the launch of the first <a href="http://www.flygob.com/">Guaranteed on Board</a> pet travel program with <a href="http://www.webvet.com/main/article?id=2196" target="_blank" title="American Airlines and pet travel">American Airlines</a> (AA), as well as new pet travel carriers. AA has joined a growing number of airlines that participate in the program developed by The Sherpa Pet Group. Fliers who purchase any one of the various sized pet carriers branded by AA are guaranteed to board U.S. domestic AA flights with their pets as long as they fill out the Guaranteed on Board form accurately and comply with the terms. Each participating airline has its own pet carrier requirements.  Anyone denied boarding will be refunded the price of both the customer and pet airline ticket. As the limo whisked Burniac and Olive to the airport, she wondered how her puppy would adjust to <a href="http://www.webvet.com/main/article/id/1989/med/0" target="_blank" title="Air travel with pets">air travel</a>. Burniac had never flown with a dog before. She didn't have to worry. "Olive got used to the Sherpa bag pretty quickly but had to keep popping her head out to see what was going on," said Burniac. Their first stop was the AA dog walking area. "She's a puppy so she doesn't understand the whole ‘holding your bladder thing' ", Burniac said. After an uneventful trip through security, they proceeded to the flight gate. "They let us board early with the kids. The bag fits right under the seat in front of you," said Burniac. After taking her seat, Olive slept through takeoff ... and the rest of the flight. At home, Burniac reports that Olive still enjoys hanging out in her new carrier and traveling the New York subway. "She thinks of it as a safe Olive place." The other lucky winner of the raffle was a more seasoned pet traveler. Real estate broker Christine Traina and her 12-pound <a href="http://www.webvet.com/breeds/show/id/298" target="_blank" title="Poodle breed information">Poodle</a> Shuga Pi won a trip to San Francisco. Shuga Pi traveled the trolley to Fisherman's Wharf on a cable car in the bay, and the ferry to Sausalito in her Sherpa Bag. Pet-friendly restaurants provided gourmet doggie dining. "She had a blast," Traina said. "She doesn't know she's a dog." <h4>Priority - Pet Passenger Comfort and Safety </h4> As more people travel with their dogs and cats, airlines are scrambling to provide safe accommodations. To provide more piece of mind, AA decided to partner with The Sherpa Pet Group, which created the first soft-sided carriers for airline travel nearly 20 years ago. Tim Ford, chief executive officer of Sherpa, reports that anxious pet owners contact the company daily, looking for a guarantee that they will be able to board an airplane with their pet and not encounter problems. "A lot of people will run out and buy a carrier that says ‘airline approved.' If you look closer, there are also a lot of disclosures," Ford said "We knew there was a huge education issue out there about the different rules for each airline." Each airline has its own specifications. The Sherpa bags were designed to exact specifications to fit comfortably under an AA seat and provide maximum comfort to the animal. Ford was surprised to find that 25 percent of flights were booked by cat owners. "The biggest issue with cats is that they don't leave the house. They can claw and fight to get out of the carrier if they haven't gotten used to it," he said. No matter which airline you fly, Ford offers some practical advice: <ul><li>Prepare your pet for the flight. Start with some road trips.</li><li>Put an old T-shirt or something with familiar smells in the carrier.</li><li>Learn how to properly go through security.</li><li>Find out if you need any <a href="http://www.webvet.com/main/article?id=98&med=1" target="_blank" title="Vaccinations for pets">vaccination</a> or health certificates from your vet.</li><li>Carry a complete health history with up-to-date information about your pet's medications, shots, etc.</li><li>BE PATIENT. Allow some extra time. Don't go to the airport at the last minute.</li><li>Think carefully about traveling with older pets.</li><li>If you have any concerns about whether your pet is healthy enough for the trip, check with your veterinarian.</li></ul> Ford's own Poodle, Teddy, is a veteran flier. "We just unzip the bag, turn our backs, and he's in the bag ready to go," he says. As for Olive, her next flight is to Michigan for the Thanksgiving holiday.   Sherpa-branded pet carriers are available in three approved sizes for the Guaranteed on Board program at select PETCO locations and online at <a href="http://www.petco.com/">www.petco.com</a>. For more information about the carrier, Guaranteed On Board program and participating airlines visit <a href="http://www.sherpapetgroup.com/">www.sherpapetgroup.com</a>.   By Marilyn Soltis for WebVet By Marilyn Soltis for WebVet Pets & Travel The adventures of Hayley and Brando http://www.webvet.com/main/article?id=1965 <a href="http://www.webvet.com/main/article?id=1965">The adventures of Hayley and Brando</a> Hayley Sumner had been a world traveler. But she had never really explored the United States. A native New Yorker, she was living in California on that horrible day in September of 2001. As with most who grew up in the City, she lost many friends in the attack on the Twin Towers.The great loss and tragedy ignited a patriotism within Hayley, and she longed to understand what had happened.  In search of solace, she took along her soul mate, Brando, a part rottweiler, Labrador and Newfoundland mix. She traded her sports car for a truck, and the two of them set off on a trip through the rugged American West. With a video camera, they stopped wherever they saw an American flag."I had a very unsettling feeling that was motivating me not only to understand what happened, but also to connect with others and our country,'' Hayley said. "I wanted to see how people were affected by and dealing with the tragedy.''Along the way, Hayley and Brando made new friends - both human and canine. She learned a lot about herself, including some lessons Brando taught her about adventure and trust, and she bonded with new people they met on the road."Here I was, a New York City girl in the wilderness,'' she said. "So much seemed familiar, yet there was so much I didn't know."Before setting off on the trip, Hayley had researched cafes and roadside motels that were dog-friendly. She hung a shirt on the car window to keep the glare out of Brando's eyes and protect him from the heat. When they stopped at a motel, they heard people having a party - and then heard a knock at their door. It was Brando who led the way, as Hayley and her pet joined her fellow Americans sitting around, having a drink and just talking about the things that needed to be talked about.They traveled for a time with Harley motorcycle riders. They experienced the kindness of truckers who alerted them to speed traps and offered advice for a woman traveling alone on the open road. They relaxed in an Old West hotel in Livingston, Mont. It was the landmark Murray Hotel, a place with bullet holes in the ceiling, gorgeous antiques and live country music playing.At the hotel, it was Brando who made the social connections. Sitting in the Montana hotel bar, Hayley heard someone shout, "Is that Brando?'' As it happened, it was a group they knew from the dog parks in Venice, Calif. -- friendly people with a big friendly dog named Ulla. Before long, Brando and Ulla were playfully scampering around together.The trip was full of adventure and lots of activities. At one point, while they were getting into a paddle boat, Brando slipped between the boat and the dock, and plopped into the water -- his first swimming experience. Hayley dropped her camera bags and dove in to save him, hoisting him up from underneath the water while people at the dock grabbed Brando and pulled him safely to shore.Hayley and Brando had another scary moment, when they momentarily found themselves in the path of a herd of mustangs. Hayley put Brando up in a tree while the herd passed. Like Dorothy in Oz, Hayley knew she wasn't in New York or California anymore.Hayley and Brando traveled through most of the Northwest -- Washington, Oregon, Idaho, Montana, Wyoming and Utah. In Oregon, the two of them met up with another of Hayley's old friends from grade school. It was good to reminisce with Rachael and her boys, and it was salve for both their hearts.Hayley took away plenty of wisdom from the trip. She learned that people all over the country are bound by a common love of America. She connected with the mountains, the people, and the patriotism she found everywhere she visited. She also learned something important from Brando about a loving relationship.The moment of truth happened while fly fishing, when Hayley's friend tied Brando to a post to keep him from wandering off. Not happy to be bound, Brando chewed right through the supposedly indestructible rope."The message was clear,'' Hayley said. "If you tie me up, I'll leave. If you respect me, I'll stay with you forever.'' By Dirk Johnson for WebVet By Dirk Johnson for WebVet Pets & Travel Dogs and water safety http://www.webvet.com/main/article?id=1978 <a href="http://www.webvet.com/main/article?id=1978">Dogs and water safety</a> Swimming is a great exercise for dogs, and can also be th perfect relief from summer heat.  Whether you're <a href="http://www.webvet.com/main/article?id=1457" target="_blank" title="boating with your dog">boating with your dog</a> or simply letting it have a dip in the pool, there are many safety precautions pet owners should take while swimming with their dogs. First and foremost, make sure that your dog can swim.  Most <a href="http://www.webvet.com/main/article/id/1968" target="_blank" title="Teach your dog to swim">dogs can be taught to swim,</a> but others are not made for it or are simply too afraid.  Other dangers are less about the dog, and more about the place they're swimming.  For example, In the summer of 2007, at least three dogs in Minnesota died after swimming in lakes that contained blue-green algae. In Michigan, a nine-month old border collie named Vita died shortly after swimming in a pond with the algae."Had I ever heard of the danger of blue-green algae, I never would have allowed my dogs to swim in that or any other pond; I would have bought a pool,'' Vita's owner said in a newspaper interview.Health officials have known about blue-green algae for years, but there is little documentation regarding pets. "There are not many cases written up,'' said Robert Poppenga, DVM, PhD, of the California Animal Health and Food Safety Toxicology Laboratory at the University of California School of Veterinary Medicine, Davis. "They happen. Owners may not see the animal ingest the material, so they may not make the connection. However, now there is more attention about the harmful effects of algae blooms in people, so it's beginning to transfer to dogs.''Though <a href="http://www.webvet.com/main/article?id=1432" target="_blank" title="How to spice up your dog's exercise routine">swimming is great exercise for dogs</a>, he says, each body of water where pets can cavort - ponds and lakes, pools, or ocean - has its own dangers. Pet owners can minimize risk by knowing what they are and how to prevent or avoid them. <h4>Ponds and lakes</h4>Other than the blue-green algae, ponds and lakes can be good places for dogs to swim because they don't have tides or currents, but owners should watch the water carefully, no matter how clean it looks.For example, many parks, golf courses or subdivisions that have lakes or ponds treat them with chemicals to prevent algae. The chemicals can cause skin irritation. "Chemicals,'' Poppenga said, "can cause liver damage, and in some cases, neurologic damage. If you suspect something along these lines, take the animal to a vet immediately.''Also, ponds and lakes in the country may contain materials toxic to dogs such as fertilizers, pesticides or herbicides that are "run-off'' from area farms. Larger lakes where motor-boating is allowed might have higher concentrations of motor oil. If you are on a boat and your dog jumps from it, make sure there is a logical way to get the dog back in. Never let a dog drink from a pond or lake, so take fresh water for drinking as well as for bathing the dog after a swim.  If you fear that your dog has ungested bad water or has swam in water that may be toxic, call for help immediately.<h4>Swimming pool safety</h4>The most important thing about pools, says Paula Patton, professional dog trainer at The Gray Dog Lodge in Lenoir City, Tenn., is that they have steps and dogs should know where they are. "Dogs should never be allowed to swim alone,'' she said. "When pools are not in use, they should be covered. But most importantly, your pet should know how to get out of the pool without struggle.''She also recommends the following:<ul><li>Make sure your pet is wearing a pet flotation device while swimming.</li><li>Monitor your pet to make sure the chlorinated water in the pool is not irritating. Watch especially your pet's eyes for irritation.</li><li>Don't let your pet drink the chlorinated water.</li><li>After a dip in the pool, most pets should be hosed or bathed to remove chlorine that can dry the coat and be ingested when the pet is grooming. </li></ul><h4>Swimming in the ocean</h4><a href="http://www.webvet.com/main/article?id=1608" target="_blank" title="Dog swimming - the best beaches">Dogs that swim in the ocean</a> can be pulled under by strong tides and undercurrents, said Alison White, a pet hydrotherapist who works in Oceanside, Calif. "I have dogs that swim in the ocean and I am very alert,'' she said. "A life jacket is essential. Also, I don't let my dogs go out too far. Sometime dogs are too focused on finding a ball that's been thrown. They become so obsessed with the ball that they get pulled out and then you have to go out after them.''Her other recommendations:<ul><li>Scan the water for jellyfish. Be aware of sea lice that can cause itchy red bumps on dogs.</li><li>Do not let dogs become overly tired in the water. Older dogs lack the endurance they once had.</li><li>Do not allow the dog to drink sea water because the salt can cause sickness. Salt can be irritating to paws and skin, too.</li><li>Rinse salt water and sand from your dog's coat after swimming.</li><li>Always clean and dry ears after a swim. Water that remains in ears, especially from a dirty lake, can result in a bacterial ear infection.</li></ul>An easy way to skirt a lot of the danger of swimming is to purchase a " kiddie pool'' for pets. Sprinklers and kiddie pools are effective and safer for dogs that are older or impaired, or for breeds that don't swim. Water from the hose is sufficient, and chlorine isn't necessary. Wading or splashing is fun for dogs, and has the same cooling effect as a large body of water.   By Chris Smith for WebVet By Chris Smith for WebVet Pets & Travel Traveling with your bird: The basics http://www.webvet.com/main/article?id=2000 <a href="http://www.webvet.com/main/article?id=2000">Traveling with your bird: The basics</a> Traveling with your pet always presents challenges, espcially with pet birds, which require bird cages and other special aviary needs Pet friendly travel accommodations may be not be readily available; unfamiliar surroundings can make many pets anxious; some animals suffer from motion sickness; cats need their litter boxes; dogs need to be walked and exercised. Nevertheless, in spite of these challenges, travel with pets is commonplace. According to statistics compiled by the Travel Industry Association, 14 percent of all U.S. adults say that they have traveled with a pet on a trip of 50 miles or more, one-way, in the past three years. Not surprisingly, dogs are the most common pet travelers (78 percent), followed by cats (15 percent). Birds, however, come in at a distant 2 percent. This should come as no surprise. Traveling with a bird presents special challenges that are not faced by dog and cat owners. Although some bird owners feel that certain species are too "high-strung'' to tolerate travel, at least one prominent bird expert disagrees. Katherine Quesenberry, DVM, a board-certified avian specialist and head of the Avian and Exotic Pet Service of the <a href="http://www.amcny.org/doctor/cv/quesenberry.aspx?tid=392" target="_blank">Animal Medical Center</a> in New York, said, "You can travel with any species as long as you take the necessary precautions.'' <h4>Preparation is the key</h4>Once you've made the decision to take your bird with you, thorough preparation is essential to a successful and low-stress trip. Those preparations fall into three broad categories: lodgings; rules and regulations; equipment and supplies.<h4>Pet-friendly lodgings</h4>Many hotels and motels do not accept pets. Some won't accept cats or dogs but will allow birds. So, make sure to do your research in advance and make reservations at a bird-friendly venue. Remember also that birds are extremely sensitive to cigarette smoke, so it's essential to reserve a non-smoking room and to double-check on this when you arrive. <h4>Rules and regulations</h4>Each state has regulations concerning the importation of animals. Some states specifically exclude certain species of birds. Regardless of species, most states require that if you are transporting a bird into the state it must be accompanied by a health certificate signed by your veterinarian within ten days prior to your departure. The Animal and Plant Inspection Service of the U.S. Dept. of Agriculture <a href="http://www.aphis.usda.gov/import_export/animals/animal_import/animal_imports_states.shtml" target="_blank">Web site</a> has links to the current regulations of each of the states. <h4>Equipment and supplies</h4>There are three essentials to bring with you on every trip with your bird: a birdcage designed for travel; food and water; cleaning supplies.<ul><li>Cage: For car travel, use a cage designed for car travel that can be fastened with a seat belt. Use the largest size cage that does not interfere with the driver's visibility. Never put the cage in the front seat, where an exploding airbag could injure your bird. </li><li>Use food and water dispensers that won't spill from the jostling of the vehicle. You can also put a clean sponge in the bottom of your bird's water dish. This prevents spills while allowing your bird access to water. Introduce the sponge to your bird a few days before the trip. Don't fill the cage with hard objects or swinging toys that might cause injury in a sudden stop. </li><li>Bring an ample supply of your bird's regular food and any special treats. Quesenberry suggests bringing some fresh fruit to keep your bird adequately hydrated. </li><li>To protect against possible loss of your bird when out of the cage, make sure to have its wings clipped before your trip.</li><li>Cleaning supplies should include spare cage liners; paper towels or wipes for cage cleaning; disinfectant (make sure to use a type that is safe for birds); a small scrub brush or toothbrush.</li></ul>Quesenberry reminds bird owners that "car sickness can be a problem with any bird, as it can be with people. This tends to occur more frequently in larger birds. Some birds will get hyperexcited in cars and this may contribute to the problem.'' So, the important thing is to know your bird. Try taking some shorter car trips to see how your bird handles the experience. Ginger root is also recommended to help car-sick birds.<h4>Last, but not least</h4>Aside from the need for a health certificate, for the sake of your bird -- and your peace of mind -- have your bird examined by an avian veterinarian prior to your trip just to make sure it's in good health. And in case there is a medical problem while traveling, it's a good idea to get the name of an avian veterinarian near your final destination, as well as along the way. Some time spent preparing for your trip will make the experience a breeze, both for you and your bird. By Peter Lopatin for WebVet By Peter Lopatin for WebVet Pets & Travel Car safety tips for dogs http://www.webvet.com/main/article?id=2003 <a href="http://www.webvet.com/main/article?id=2003">Car safety tips for dogs</a> <a href="http://www.webvet.com/main/article/id/1584" target="_blank" title="Pet friendly vacations: tips for a safe journey">Traveling with your dog</a>? Don't think for a second that safety belts are merely for people. As canine companions go along for the ride, dogs need to be strapped in, too -- to protect everyone.A car traveling at 30 mph can result in a 60-pound dog  (such as a  medium-sized Boxer or a  smaller Labrador Retriever) crashing into the windshield, seat, or another passenger with an impact of 2,700 pounds, according to <a href="http://www.barkbuckleup.com/" target="_blank" title="Bark Buckle Up">Bark-Buckle UP</a>, a pet safety advocacy group based in San Diego, Calif. The risks, of course, increase at higher travel speeds. Additional dangers posed by unrestrained animals include distracting the driver, or escaping the vehicle and causing a collision on the road. In addition, keep in mind that if the driver is perceived to be in danger after an accident, a protective dog might fend off would-be rescuers.The <a href="http://www.tia.org/index.html" target="_blank" title="Travel Industry Association">Travel Industry Association</a> reports 29.1 million U.S. adults have traveled with a pet for a distance of 50 miles or more, one way, in the past three years, with 67 percent of that <a href="http://www.webvet.com/main/article?id=109&med=1" target="_blank" title="Car travel">travel by car or truck.</a>Even car companies are getting into the act. Volvo offers an optional, factory-installed cage. Subaru has a gate preventing pets from entering the main passenger area, and Saab has a metal cargo guard in some car models. Eager to follow the trend, the auto insurance industry now offers policies for pets.<h4>Buckle up</h4>Many restraints are available for purchase, from harnesses to car seats, safety belts, and fencing. Some carriers are even temperature-controlled for traveling in extreme climates.Bark Buckle UP collects in-depth statistics about pet safety and advocates legislative solutions. The organization also tracks product development, using focus groups to test for quality and awarding a seal of safety. The organization does not sell products, but certain products are featured on its Web site. Top pet safety product awards for 2007 were announced at the New York International Auto Show in March. The big winners:<ul><li><a href="http://www.webvet.com/main/article?id=2107" target="_blank" title="New Toyota Venza">Pet Safe Vehicle</a> of Choice in America: Volvo C90 with its optional rear kennel system. </li><li>Small pet: <a href="http://www.sleepypod.com" target="_blank">Sleepypod</a> is a pet bed that combines a bed and travel carrier. It can be strapped into a car seat or used on airplanes. </li><li>Large dog: <a href="http://www.kurgo.com" target="_blank">Kurgo's</a> safety harness. </li><li>Accessory for SUV: <a href="http://www.petbuckle.com" target="_blank">The Pet Buckle Truck Tether</a> keeps your dog securely restrained while traveling. </li><li>Travel accessory: <a href="http://www.FurryTravelers.com" target="_blank">Furry Travelers</a> "To Go Bowl'' fits into a car cup holder and stores both water and treats. It has a splash guard and lids for water and food.</li><li>Technical product: <a href="http://www.zoombak.com" target="_blank">Zoombak GPS Dog Locator</a>. This lightweight global positioning system lets you know where your dog is at virtually all times. </li></ul>It pays to shop around. Many of these products are offered from various sources, including <a href="http://www.amazon.com/">www.amazon.com</a>. By Marilyn Soltis for WebVet By Marilyn Soltis for WebVet Pets & Travel Airline travel with pets http://www.webvet.com/main/article?id=1989 <a href="http://www.webvet.com/main/article?id=1989">Airline travel with pets</a> If you are planning to <a href="http://www.webvet.com/main/article?id=1584" target="_blank" title="A pet-friendly vacation: tips for a safe journey">travel by air with your pet</a>, make sure to check with the airline well in advance of your trip to learn of any specific travel requirements.  If you are flying on an airplane  going  internationally, also check with your destination country for any pet-related requirements.  Health certificates are often necessary to travel with your dog, cat or other pet, and some countries require a period of quarantine for your pet on its arrival.Before traveling with your pet, make sure to visit your veterinarian for a complete physical and to make sure that your pet is up to date on all <a href="http://www.webvet.com/main/article?id=98&med=1" target="_blank" title="Vaccinations">vaccinations</a>.  You may need to obtain a signed health certificate, which can take additional time.<a href="http://www.webvet.com/main/article?id=2048" target="_blank" title="Everything you need to know about shipping your pet">Whey flying your pet, safety is paramount</a>.  Check with your airline to be sure your pet carrier is an "airline-approved" crate.  Familiarize your pet with the carrier before your travel date to minimize stress.  The carrier should be large enough for your pet to stand up and turn around freely, but not so large that your pet can be tossed about during turbulence.  It must be well-ventilated, with walls that cannot be crushed, and have a sturdy carrying handle.  Follow all instructions for securing and identifying your pet and its crate during travel.Small pets can travel in the cabin with their owners.  Your carrier must be able to fit under the seat, and your pet cannot be allowed to disturb other passengers.  Most airlines charge an additional fee for transporting pets, whether the pet is traveling in the cabin with its owner or in the baggage compartment.You should book direct flights if at all possible!  Doing so will avoid the possibility of a missed baggage connection or your pet being exposed to extreme temperatures.  You should avoid airline travel when your pet may be exposed to (ground) temperatures below 40ºF (4 C) or above 80ºF (21 C).  Consider traveling at non-peak times so that baggage handlers will have the most time to handle your pet carrier.Airline travel may pose a risk for pets that have a medical problem, such as kidney or heart disease. Short-faced breeds of dogs (eg, English bulldogs, Boston terriers, Pekinese, etc) and cats (eg, Himalayans, Persians and Exotic Shorthairs) do not travel well in certain situations.  Discuss these issues with your vet before traveling.Do not feed your pet within 6 hours of a flight to reduce the possibility of vomiting.  However, water should be available to your pet at all times, including inside the carrier.  Do not tranquilize your pet without specific instructions from your vet.  Remember to take your pet's regular food and any needed medications on your trip.Many <a href="http://www.webvet.com/main/article/id/2017/med/0" target="_blank" title="pet-friendly lodging">lodging facilities accommodate pets</a>, but be sure to check pet policies and make arrangements well in advance of your travel date. Susan E. Aiello, DVM, and John A. Bukowski, DVM, MPH, PhD Susan E. Aiello, DVM, and John A. Bukowski, DVM, MPH, PhD Pets & Travel Travel tips for cats and small animals http://www.webvet.com/main/article?id=2018 <a href="http://www.webvet.com/main/article?id=2018">Travel tips for cats and small animals</a> Planning a trip with your cat or small animal? Dogs aren't the only furry travelers. While they comprise most four-legged traveling companions, the Travel Industry Association reports cats go along in 15 percent of cases, and ferrets, rabbits, and fish 2 percent of the time. Read on for tips on traveling with your pet. Cats travel best in crates and carriers, according to the 2007-2008 National Pet Owners Survey. The American Pet Products Manufacturing Association reports that 67 percent of traveling pet owners use a crate when traveling with cats. Despite the growing popularity of stylish soft-sided pet carriers, the association says 59 percent are of the plastic variety.Many cat owners have experienced the travails of coaxing cats into carriers.  Most cats do not acclimate immediately to being crated. Try these tips:<ul><li>Introduce your cat to the carrier slowly and in stages. Tempt your cat with a favorite toy.</li><li>Leave the carrier on the floor so your cat can discover it without your prompting.</li><li>Use the carrier at a young age so the cat will grow accustomed to it. </li><li>Take your cat on short trips. Make the destination a happy place.</li></ul>Eileen Barish, award-winning author of "Vacationing with Your Pet'' offers this helpful suggestion: When traveling, <a href="http://www.webvet.com/main/article/id/2029" target="_blank">take your cat on your walks</a>. She suggests finding a well-made, light-weight harness and leash. Make sure the adjustment is not too tight, which will make cats avoid the leisurely stroll, or too loose, allowing an escape. Allow cats to sniff and become familiar with any new equipment. Let your cat wear the harness and leash without your holding on to it. Practice walking around the house and reinforce the walk with favorite treats and praise. Once you venture out, look out for anything cats might find threatening. Pick up your pet immediately if you sense a threat. Your cat is likely to enjoy the new surroundings, and you are bound to meet people with similar interests, Barish said in her book. Of course, consult your vet before taking kitty on a trip.<h4>Pocket pets</h4>Rabbit ownership has skyrocketed in the past five years, with Americans owning about 6.2 million rabbits as pets. In addition, Americans own 1.1 million ferrets, 1 million guinea pigs, 1.2 million hamsters, and hundreds of thousands of gerbils and other rodents, according to the U.S. Pet Ownership and Demographics Sourcebook, compiled by the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA).A growing number of vets specialize in treating smaller animals; consult one before attempting long-distance travel with a pocket-sized pet.Earlier this year the AVMA approved a new specialty, Exotic Companion Mammal (ECM), for vets who treat rabbits, ferrets, guinea pigs, rodents, and other small exotic mammals. A list of vets with ECM specialization can be found at the Association of Exotic Mammal Veterinarians <a href="http://www.aemv.org" target="_blank">Web site</a>.Because travel can be extremely stressful for many small animals, consider the following precautions:<ul><li>Find a good carrier your pet finds comfortable. Some small animal carriers are made specifically for rabbits. Carriers with front and top openings can make it easier to get the pet inside. </li><li>Use a seatbelt to secure the carrier inside your vehicle.</li><li>Do a number of practice runs before hitting the road for a long trip.</li><li>Find lodging that will accept your small pet. </li><li>Pack extra food and treats.</li><li>Bring cleaning supplies and paper towels.</li><li>Keep your pet out of the sun and avoid excessive heat.  Never leave any pet in a carrier in a closed vehicle in warm weather.</li><li>Don't let your pet escape by neglecting to secure the carrier. </li></ul>A trip with cats or small animals requires careful monitoring to make sure your pet doesn't get sick or become stressed. With proper planning and caring, however, you can have a fun trip with your small animal companion. By Marilyn Soltis for WebVet By Marilyn Soltis for WebVet Pets & Travel