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It’s summer time and many families are ready to hit the road. If you plan to travel with your pet, new products and services are popping up all the time to make things easier.

Pet Friendly Finds

When traveling with pets, the Internet is definitely your friend. Many service sites, like gopetfriendly.com  are now available to help you find pet-friendly hotels, restaurants, campgrounds, beaches, activities and other services while on the road. A simple search and you can find everything you need to know, including related fees and pet policies.

Pet Friendly Finds

When traveling with pets, the Internet is definitely your friend. Many service sites, like gopetfriendly.com are now available to help you find pet friendly hotels, restaurants, campgrounds, beaches, activities and other services while on the road. A simple search and you can find everything you need to know, including related fees and pet policies.

About those fees: be aware that many hotels that allow pets charge an additional fee to have them in your room with you. Fees can range anywhere from $10 per pet per night to $50 or more. That can be hefty increase in the advertised room rate, so be sure you know exactly how much they charge.

Plan Ahead

Traveling with pets, especially during the hot summer months, requires careful planning. The ASPCA recommends that you do several trial runs on shorter trips with your animal before you attempt a long-distance ride.

Never leave your pet in an unattended car. Even with the windows open, the interior of a car can reach dangerously high temperatures in just a matter of minutes in hot weather. If you plan to stop to eat, think about taking a picnic so your pet can take a break with you, or research pet-friendly restaurants along your route.

Be sure your pets vaccinations are up to date. Your pet should always wear his collar and tags with contact information when traveling. Consider a microchip for your animal if you plan to travel often, just in case you get separated along with way.

Before You Leave

Have your pet eat a small meal several hours before you depart to help prevent carsickness. Your animal should have a safe way to ride with you in the car. An unrestrained pet can be hurt in an accident, and can be a distraction and danger to the driver. The ASPCA recommends a well-ventilated crate. There are also a wide variety of car restraints and barrier systems that keep animals in a safe part of the vehicle. Never let your pet ride in the front seat, as an airbag could be fatal.

On the Road

Take plenty of breaks to provide a drink of water, potty stops, and exercise. Bring a favorite toy or chew to keep your pet happy and occupied. Here are few more tips for your traveling safely with your pet. Have fun.