Keep your pet safe and happy, no matter where life takes you.
Planes, Trains, and Automobiles!
Okay, so maybe we don’t have trains on PEI anymore, but there is definitely no shortage of flights these days. Plus, it’s summertime so there are plenty of reasons to hit the road and explore everything our beautiful province has to offer!
You don’t have to leave your pet behind when you go on vacation. With a little planning, you can enjoy getting off the beaten path with them by your side.
Here are some of my tips for travelling with your pet by car and plane. Check it out!
Travelling by Car
Some pets travel well, others…not so much. I’m sure many of us have a story or two about mid-trip accidents…
Here are some tips to help make your road trip with your furry and feathered friends go off without a hitch.
- Keep your pets comfy. Give them a soft bed or blanket to lie on that smells like home.
- Pack a little extra in case of emergency — extra food, fresh water, cleaning supplies, medication (if needed), supplements, etc. Depending where your road trip takes you, you might not be able to get pet essentials everywhere you go.
- Make sure the temperature is right for them, and provide fresh air when needed by opening a window or operating a USB-powered fan. (But never, ever leave your pets in a car unattended.)
- If your road trip is longer than a few hours, make sure you have everything you need for regular bathroom breaks. (If you’re travelling with a cat, a portable litter box is your best bet. For dogs, that means having enough poop bags on hand!)
Travelling by Plane
Travelling by plane with your pet usually requires more planning than a road trip. Here are a few essential tips to ensure smooth sailing!
- Book early and review the airline requirements well in advance of your flight. There are usually fees associated with bringing your pet, and there are also rules around the type of carrier you can have, your pet’s age, as well as summer weather restrictions and special requirements based on breed. Here are the requirements for travelling with pets on airlines that service Prince Edward Island:
a. Air Canada
b. WestJet
c. Flair
d. Swoop - If you’re travelling internationally, your pet must have proper documentation to meet your destination’s entry requirements. Here’s a helpful list of pet entry requirements by country from WestJet to get you started!
- Get insurance for your pet that covers air travel in case of emergencies.
- Like with road trips, pack extra pet essentials. If you’re away for an extended period, plan in advance to make sure you can get the food and supplies your pet requires at your destination.
- Visit your vet before flying with your pet. They may recommend calming solutions like calming chews or supplements.
Home is wherever I’m with you
Going on vacation and leaving your pets at home just doesn’t feel right. After all, home is wherever your pets are — with you!
If you want more tips and advice on travelling with your pets this summer, do what I did and visit Global Pet Foods in Charlottetown or Summerside. Their Pet Care Specialists can provide advice and help you find the right products for travelling with your pet this summer.
Rather explore pet travel solutions online? You can do just that right on their website and have your order delivered right to your door. (Home delivery offered Island-wide!)
Safe travels and happy summer!
– Keenan Costain (@kcost27)
