If you go away and want to take your pet or pets with you, you have to know a little something about safe pet transportation. In some cases, you can take your pet on an airplane with you, and other times they must ride in cargo. You can take your pet in your vehicle and into a hotel, but you still want to make sure you have the appropriate items to keep them safe and also keep them contained. You want your pet to be safe, secure and happy no matter where you go or how you choose to get there. Don't worry, it is not that hard to get it right.
Any type of pet transportation means having the appropriate pet carrier. You may see cute purses that can easily transport a small dog, but these are really not great for long term travel or safety. You want to have a sturdy carrier that is approved for air travel. The crate must have a lock and must have proper ventilation. It should also be big enough for your pet to travel comfortably. Your pet should be able to stand up and turn in a circle within the crate comfortably. If so, you have chosen the right size for pet transportation. If they can not turn around easily, get the next size up.
You also want to be sure that your pet is safe in your car if you are traveling. Have a pet loose in any vehicle is not a good idea. You can not control what they are going to do. You should use the same type of carrier for this type of pet transportation. This keeps them in one place. A well meaning but lonely pet could crawl under your legs while you are driving, making it impossible for you to apply the brakes. As you can imagine, that could be disastrous. The same crate you get for air travel works well for this type of pet transportation as well.
You also have to think about the basic needs of your pet when you think about pet transportation. They are going to need fresh water and some food while you are on your way to or from your destination. Make sure any crate you buy also have a way for your pet to get the water and food that they need. If you are traveling by car, make sure you stop for your pet to get out and stretch as well as do their personal business. Any pet riding in a car also needs a steady stream of fresh air, so be sure they are getting it and that the vent holes on the crate you have chosen are not blocked.
Lastly, understand that some pets simply do not travel well. Some do not have the temperament for it, or they simply do not like crowds or loud noises. You may want to take your beloved with you, but it may not be in the best interest of your pet. Find someone to watch them for you or find a kennel nearby that fits your needs. Pet transportation can make your vacation a nightmare if your dog or cat simply can not handle the stimulation or the conditions. They will be better off left at home with a carrying relative than to be traumatized by conditions they simply don't understand or tolerate.