Paws, Planes, & Automobiles: The Ultimate Holiday Pet Travel Guide for Edgewater Pet Owners

The holiday season is just around the corner! For many of us in Edgewater, North Bergen, and Port Imperial, this means packing our bags to visit family or taking a well-deserved vacation. But if you are one of the millions of pet owners planning to bring your furry best friend along, you might be feeling a mix of excitement and stress.

At Edgewater Animal Hospital, we know that pets are family. Whether you are driving down the Jersey Turnpike or catching a flight out of Newark, a safe trip requires the right preparation.

Here is your comprehensive guide to holiday pet travel, ensuring your journey is as smooth as possible for you and your four-legged companion.

Hitting the Road: Safety First

Car travel is the most common way pets join the family festivities. However, letting your dog roam free in the back seat can be dangerous for both of you.

• Restrain for Safety: Unrestrained pets can become projectiles in a sudden stop. We highly recommend using a crash-tested crate or a specialized seatbelt harness to keep them secure.

• Combat Car Sickness: Does your dog drool excessively, whine, or vomit during car rides? Motion sickness is very common. If you know your pet struggles with the car, schedule an appointment with us. We can prescribe safe, effective medication to settle their stomach so the ride is enjoyable for everyone.

• Microchip Check: Before you leave Edgewater, make sure your pet’s microchip registration is up to date. If they slip out at a rest stop, that chip is their best ticket home.

Domestic Flights: The "10-Day Rule"

Flying within the United States? Most airlines require a Domestic Health Certificate issued by a licensed veterinarian.

The Catch: Airlines typically require this certificate to be issued within 10 days of your travel date.

If you book your appointment too early, the certificate may expire before you fly. If you wait too long, you risk not getting an appointment. We recommend calling Edgewater Animal Hospital as soon as you book your flight to reserve your spot in that crucial 10-day window.

International Travel: Start Planning Now

Taking your pet abroad is a completely different ballgame. International pet travel involves complex regulations that vary by country.

Countries like the UK, Japan, and Australia have strict "rabies-free" statuses and require specific timelines for vaccinations, blood tests, and deworming. Missing a single step by one day can result in your pet being quarantined or denied entry.

What You Need to Know:

• USDA Health Certificates: Most international destinations require a health certificate endorsed by the USDA.

• Timeline is Key: Some countries require preparations to start months in advance.

• Call Us Immediately: If you are flying internationally, do not wait. Contact us at (201) 941-7880 the moment you know your travel dates so we can map out a vaccination and testing schedule.

Managing Travel Anxiety

Travel is stressful for humans, and it can be terrifying for pets. The changing environments, loud noises of airplanes, and confinement can cause significant anxiety.

If your pet is nervous, let’s talk about it. From natural calming supplements to prescription anti-anxiety medication, we can help take the edge off so your pet arrives at your destination calm and happy.

Ready for Takeoff?

Don’t let paperwork or car sickness ground your holiday plans. Dr. Kim and the team at Edgewater Animal Hospital are here to help our neighbors in Edgewater, West New York, and Port Imperial travel safely.

Schedule Your Pre-Travel Exam Here or call us at (201) 941-7880 to book your appointment.