Pets, like humans, can feel the stress of the holidays, whether involved in family travel plans or left at home.
"Pets may not respond well to either visitors in the home or being taken along on long trips," said Dr. Thomas A. Lenarduzzi, associate clinical professor at Mississippi State University's College of Veterinary Medicine. "Be aware of their needs during the hectic holiday season."
For owners choosing to travel without Spot or Tabby, Lenarduzzi says it's essential to leave proper information for caregivers. These include detailed instructions--daily feeding amounts, most importantly--and an out-of-town telephone number where the owners may be reached in an emergency.
For animals joining the family on an automobile trek to Grandma's house, Leanarduzzi recommends short pre-conditioning rides in the days before leaving. If motion-sickness problems are detected, consult a veterinarian for appropriate medication, he adds.
As with animals left at home, adequate food and water supplies are essential during travel. Also, be sure to have a leash and a plan for regular exercise stops along the way. If it's an especially long trip, make certain to ask hotel reservations clerks whether animals are allowed. If staying with family, be sure that your pet is welcome--or that boarding facilities are available locally.
Keep in mind, too, that out-of-state airplane travel requires a veterinarian's certificate verifying the pet's health. "If the animal is small and the carrier fits under the seat, many airlines will let the pet travel with the passenger," Lenarduzzi explains. "Otherwise, the pet is restricted to the cargo area for the flight."
Flights outside the continental United States require an international pet health certificate. This will require the certifying veterinarian to make advance contact with a consulate of the destination country. Additionally, both the consulate and a U.S. Department of Agriculture-designated veterinarian must approve the certificate.
"Certification is a lengthy process, so travelers should plan well ahead," Lenarduzzi says. "Because some countries have long quarantines for animals, it may not be practical to bring the pet along."
For overseas travel, he recommends taking along a favorite brand of food and bottled water. "The destination country may not have the same kind of pet food, particularly if it's a prescription brand," he observes. Local waters also may not agree with the animal.
Finally, families who'll be welcoming Grandma to their homes should be equally sensitive about animal stress issues, Lenarduzzi says. This is especially true for cats, who may hide because they feel threatened.
Whatever the animal, he advises owners to arrange for pets to have a safe area away from house guests. In addition to easily available food and water, the litter box should be situated where it will be free of intrusion by strangers.
And, whether it's house guests or residents, Lenarduzzi warns against the temptation to share holiday fare with animals. "'People' food, especially the highly seasoned food served during the holidays, can be harmful to pets," he says.
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