dog in suitcase.

Summer is the perfect time to explore pet-friendly travel locations in Mesa, AZ, and beyond with your favorite furry companion. But before piling your pets and family into the minivan, check out our team’s tips for traveling pet parents to help ensure that your adventures are safe and stress-free.

Summer Travel With Pets: What to Know Before You Go

Websites are great for getting an overview of everything a destination has to offer, but when looking for pet-friendly travel locations in Mesa, AZ, and beyond, it’s best to double-check all pet policies with a member of the on-site staff. 

Consider these tips for traveling pet parents:

  • Pet-friendly hotels, resorts, and Airbnbs make traveling with pets easier, but always double-check pet policies, ask about size restrictions on pets, and ask about additional pet fees before booking your stay so there are no surprises later.
  • If you’re traveling by air, make your pet’s reservation as far in advance as possible, and ask about all required documentation for your pet, including health certificates and vaccine records; and find out ahead of time if your pet can travel with you in the cabin.
  • If you’ll be traveling by car, scope out places to stop for frequent potty and exercise breaks.
  • Look for veterinary hospitals near your vacation spot just in case your pet experiences a veterinary emergency.

Keeping Cool and Safe During Summer Travel With Pets

Let’s face it, summers in Arizona are steamy, and our pets can feel the heat, too. Whatever destination is beckoning to you this summer, remember these safety tips for summer travel with pets:

  • Pets should be secured at all times during car rides, whether it’s in a pet carrier or with a seat belt/harness combination.
  • Always have water handy to keep your pet hydrated when stopping for breaks. 
  • Never leave a pet in a parked car. Ever.
  • When spending time outdoors with your pet, watch for signs like excessive drooling and panting or lethargy, as these can be symptoms of heat stroke. Move your pet to a shady area immediately, offer water, and contact the nearest emergency veterinary hospital if necessary. 
  • Pack pet-safe sunscreen and apply it to areas on your pet where the skin is exposed, particularly around the face and ears.

Visit the Vet Before You Travel

Before embarking on any adventure with your pet this summer, schedule a wellness exam to make sure your pet is up to date on parasite preventives and vaccines. Traveling to new places means your pet could be exposed to new animals, insects, and allergens that could impact your pet’s health. We’ll help you make sure your pet is vacation-ready!

Contact Us if You’re Planning Summer Travel With Pets

Our team at Curem Veterinary Care is here to get your pet ready for family fun this summer. Contact us at (480) 787-0544 if it’s time for your pet’s checkup or if you need more tips on summer travel with pets.