Make Traveling With Pets Easier With Samantha Brown's Top Tips
By NANCY CHANDLER
Samantha Brown, the beloved travel expert who has hosted a variety of television programs over the years, offers her favorite tips on how to travel successfully with a pet.
Brown says it's a good idea to do a trial run before a big trip. If your pet handles the short trip well, you can prepare for a longer journey.
Update your pet's vaccinations before leaving, and bring plenty of identification. Brown suggests using microchips and attaching a tag with the address of where you're staying.
If you're staying in a hotel, call ahead to ask questions about extra fees, weight or breed restrictions, and the policy for leaving a pet alone in the room.
When traveling by air, Brown cautions that each airline has different rules regarding pets on a flight and discourages placing a pet in the cargo hold, which can be uncomfortable.
When driving, always put your pet in the back of the car. Place your cat in a carrier and your dog in a seat belt to make them feel secure and keep the
driver safe.
Brown suggests stopping "every two hours for a bathroom break and a run." Be sure to bring water, treats, and toys to keep your pet healthy and entertained.