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Have Pet, Will TravelYou love your pet and you love to travel. Once mutually exclusive, these two pas-sions are now celebrated together as pet owners learn to travel with their pets. With a growing number of travel-related companies catering to the needs of pet owners,

there’s no reason to leave your beloved pet at home when traveling abroad. Instead, pack up your pooch and enjoy the sights together. West Chelsea Veterinary is internationally accredited and is able to prepare your travel paperwork and also assist you in obtaining the

“Many of West Chelsea Veterinary’s patients are seasoned international travelers!” notes Dr. Michael Farber, DVM, West Chelsea Veterinary

relatively easy to travel abroad with your pets, some countries have very strict rules and long processes to comply with before pets can travel. Therefore, it takes careful planning and preparation to ensure your pet is ready to travel safely and comfortably.”

Proper certification ensures international access While most countries accept international pet travelers, owners must do research on their des-tination of choice before booking their vacation. Many countries require simple health records signed by your veterinarian, but others may require specific test results, or even import per-mits. Often these requirements have a time limit (such as within 10 days prior to arrival) so make sure to carefully time your trip preparations.

Aspiring pet travelers should also be clear on pet by-laws of the cities they intend to visit. For example, some areas may ban specific breeds of dogs, such as Pit Bulls or Rottweilers.

Comfortable crates keep pets grounded while up in the airThe thought of being separated from your beloved pet while flying the friendly skies can

be nerve-wracking. However, according to the International Air Transport Association, more than 500,000 animals are shipped via the air every year with little incident. To prepare for air travel, take these steps:

∞ Use a good quality, portable crate that meets USDA and airline requirements;

∞ Ensure your pet is well hydrated and well fed about four hours before departure;

∞ Avoid traveling to destinations with harsh weather conditions; and

∞ Book direct, non-stop flights to avoid unnecessary stress for your pet.

Pet protocol in place at pet-friendly accommodationA growing number of hotels are making it easier to travel with pets. However, whether staying in a budget hotel or posh penthouse, traveling with your pet still requires pet-friendly etiquette. When booking your accommodation, double check that the hotel allows your breed of pet to stay on your desired dates and be clear on any rules in place, such as special fees.

While it can be tempting to step out for a cafe au lait while your pet snoozes, it’s best to avoid leaving your pet alone. Lastly, make sure to pack plenty of your own food, treats, toys, and blankets. This way, both you and your pooch can get a good night’s sleep.

TOP TED PET RIENDLY DESTINATIONS

When planning to travel with your favorite furry friend,

you must first take the overall health of your pet into account.

Not surprisingly, healthier pets are better travelers. While travel can be an exciting time to bond with your pet and enjoy new ex-periences together, it can also be a stressful time for your pet.

If your pet is overweight, aging, -

ed problems such as diabetes,

kidney complications, or cancer, they may not be able to withstand the rigors of travel and an unfamiliar en-vironment. Make sure to check with your West Chelsea veterinarian on whether your pet is a good travel candidate before planning your next pet-friendly getaway.

West Chelsea Veterinary can help with all of your travel needs. If you have any upcoming travel plans, please contact us as early as possible so that we can make sure your pet meets all of the necessary requirements at (212) 645-2767.

While there is no shortage of exciting destinations to

visit with your pet, there are a few international cit-

ies known for their warm welcome to pet travelers:

Rome• Pets are welcome almost anywhere and are

even allowed free of charge on public transit.

Paris • Restaurants, stores, and parks all cater to

dogs - even malls and banks!

Amsterdam • Featuring some of the most liberal pet policies

in the world, it’s easy to bring pets into the Dutch city.

Vancouver • A great place to explore the Great Outdoors

with your pooch, followed by a relaxing stay at one of many posh pet-friendly hotels downtown.

AUGUST 2011

Is your pet healthy enough to travel?

West Chelsea’s

guide to

traveling safely

and successfully

with your

beloved pet

Strutting the catwalk for a good causeWest Chelsea Veterinary is sponsoring this month’s Celebrity Catwalk fundraising event in Manhattan. Featuring a ‘Casino Royale’ theme, the charity event will feature a poker game, silent auction, and James Bond-themed pet costume event on Thursday, Aug. 18. To buy tickets or donate towards the cause, visit celebritycatwalk.com

necessary certification from the United States Department of Agriculture prior to travel.

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