How to Travel with Dogs and Cats

In the car never leave them alone and don't let them stick their heads out of the window. By train, remember that you need a specific ticket, like on a ferry. And By plane, each company has its own rules that the customer must respect. Travelling with dogs e cats, and in general with pets it is a choice that makes the owners happy, if they do not have to go through the mountains of Italian bureaucracy, but that must not put your health at risk of our life companions.

Before setting off on a journey, it is a good idea to visit your trusted veterinarian for a check-up. general check-up of the animal. This way, you can ensure that your pet is in the best health for the journey, and you can also ask your doctor about any precautions you need to take at your destination (for example, insecticide if you're going to particularly hot places). It's also a good idea to "test" your pet's endurance on short trips before embarking on a long one. so that they can gradually get used to it. In case our life companions show a state of anxiety and stress during the journey it is necessary to agree with the veterinarian The best therapy to alleviate the symptoms of possible illness. Don't be intimidated by the use of medications. In general, it's best to avoid excessive travel for cats, as they don't easily adapt to new environments and risk getting lost. Finally, always be open to the attention other travelers give your pets, even if they're a bit intrusive. Your little friends always appreciate it.

I dogs It's well known that they jump for joy every time we invite them into the car. So, if your pet is used to traveling even short distances with you in the car, you shouldn't encounter any problems when it's time to leave for vacation. Alternatively, especially if your dog is a puppy, get him used to the car by taking him on short trips, also to determine if he suffers from car sickness. In this case, consult your veterinarian: there are special tablets that can relieve not only car sickness but also seasickness in animals, and they should be administered based on their weight. Also, ask your veterinarian for advice on:supply of the animal before departure: it may be necessary to provide a very light meal to avoid any digestion problems.

I cats However, they generally don't like to leave their home, and they don't like to travel: ask your vet how to ensure the trip is as peaceful as possible and how to calm them down if they become agitated.

Index of topics

How to travel by car with your dog or cat

During the trip, make sure that your dog and cat always have some food.water available: bring appropriate water bottles with you and, if you travel by car, plan to stop at least every two hours.

Remember that dogs suffer from heat stroke: when it is very hot it is a good idea to wet them with water on the head and under the armpits.

Never leave your dog in the car, even if you're away for a short time and leave the windows down: this is extremely dangerous behavior. During the summer, a car's interior can reach temperatures of up to 70 degrees in just a few minutes.

Dogs generally enjoy looking out while the car is moving: but avoid letting him stick his head out of the window as the drafts could cause him earache and otitis.

Remember that seat belts are also mandatory for dogs in cars.

How to travel by train with your dog or cat

If you decide to instead travel by trainBuy a ticket for your four-legged friend as well, and bring a muzzle and leash for your dog. Don't forget all your pet's documents.

As for the rules, they may vary depending on the travel company.

If you travel with Trenitalia:

Small dogs (up to 10 kg): they can travel free of charge if kept in a cage or carrier that complies with the required dimensions (generally no larger than 70x30x55 cm).
Medium and large dogs (over 10 kg): they must be kept on a leash and muzzled. In this case, you must purchase a ticket that costs 50% of the price of a second-class ticket.
Cats and other small animals: they can travel free of charge in a cage or carrier, but it is important that they do not disturb other passengers.

If you travel with Italo

Small pets: can travel for free, provided they are contained in a carrier that does not exceed the dimensions of 70x30x55 cm.
Medium and large sized dogsThey can travel for 50% of the price of a ticket, but must be kept on a leash and muzzled. They must also be seated in a designated area or near their owner so as not to disturb other passengers.
Cats and other animals: as with Trenitalia, they must be placed in a carrier.

How to travel by plane with your dog or cat

As for i travel by plane, consult the website of the chosen company to learn all the rules. There is no single regulation and you will have to comply with the individual provisions.

Some airlines allow you to carry your pet in the cabin, while others require it to be transported in the hold. Always contact the airline before booking to make sure you understand the rules.

Animals in the cabin: Usually, small pets are allowed if they remain in a carrier under the seat.
Animals in the hold: For larger animals, it may be necessary to have them travel in the hold in a special container.

What to do at the end of the journey

Once you arrive at your destination, give your dog and cat time to adjust and avoid letting them go far away for a few days: they could get lost trying to find their way back home.

Remember that cats are creatures of habit, so respect their schedules even in their new home. For your dog, too, make sure meals and walks are at the same time.

If you bring with you at the beach Remember to apply sunscreen to your dog, especially to his belly and ears, to avoid sunburn. Rinse him with fresh water immediately after bathing in the sea: sand and salt water can cause irritation.

Required documents

First of all, at least Go to the vet two weeks before departure so you can check the health of your dog and cat and get all the useful advice to best face the trip.

Always carry your pet's health record with you and make sure all necessary vaccinations have been completed.

Dogs must always be identified with the microchip. For cats, however, microchipping is not mandatory within national borders: however, it could prove essential if the animal were to get lost. To be on the safe side, also remember to make sure your dog and cat wear a tag with your telephone number on it: in case of loss, it will be easier to track you down.

For travel outside Italy, it is essential to European passport.

Traveling with dogs and cats: everything you need to know, from safety to tickets.