When you adopt a pet, they become a member of the family. That means they may need to join you for certain travels and excursions.
Traveling with your pet can be a stressful experience without the right preparation and understanding of relevant rules and requirements. If you are planning a trip to or across New York State, you should understand the requirements for traveling with pets on public transportation, on airplanes, and in other vehicles.
New York veterinarians share more about requirements for traveling with pets and tips to help them stay safe and comfortable.
Traveling With Your Pet on Public Transportation
If you are planning a trip through New York City or another major city with public transportation, take the time to learn where your pet is and is not allowed. These are the rules for a few public transportation systems:
- Long Island Rail Road (LIRR): Dogs who are properly confined for shipment are permitted on the LIRR.
- Metro-North: Contained dogs are permitted on Metro-North trains.
- New Jersey Transit: Dogs are allowed on New Jersey Transit trains as long as they are confined to cages or crates.
- PATH: Dogs on PATH trains must also be “confined for shipment.”
These guidelines can change, so it is always best to check the website for your transportation method to learn about any updated policies.
Taking Your Pet on a Plane
If you are traveling to New York from another state, you may consider taking your pet on a plane instead of driving. While it is generally less stressful for pets to travel via car than plane, in some cases, you may not have other options.
Different airlines have different policies for traveling with a pet. If you want to keep your pet with you during the flight, you will generally need to ensure that they can fit near your feet. Cats and small dogs usually must be in ventilated carriers, while larger dogs may not be permitted in the cabin.
When you book your flight, you will need to indicate that you want to bring a pet and often pay an extra fee. There is typically a limit on the number of pets who can join each flight, so booking early may be a good idea.
During security, you will remove your pet from their carrier and follow the TSA agent’s instructions.
Dogs and cats are the most common travel companions on flights, but certain airlines allow rabbits, guinea pigs, small birds, hamsters, and other pets. Review airline pet policies for specific regulations.
Renting a Car With a Pet
If you need to rent a car during your trip, you should understand the requirements for traveling with pets in rental vehicles. Each rental car company sets its own pet travel regulations, so be sure to check the policy for the company you are using.
Here are some details about pet travel policies for popular rental car companies:
- Avis allows pets in rental cars in most locations as long as you confirm with your pickup location prior to your arrival. You must return the vehicle in clean condition, free of pet hair and smells, or face a cleaning fee of up to $450.
- Hertz allows clients to add pets to their rentals for no additional fee. You will only need to pay extra if the rental requires special cleaning after you return the vehicle.
- Budget permits housebroken pets to travel in the rental vehicle and only charges an extra fee if the animal causes damage or the vehicle requires special cleaning due to accidents or shedding
Can You Travel With Pets in a Rideshare Vehicle?
Perhaps you are planning to take rideshares while traveling instead of renting a vehicle. Uber and Lyft both have options for riding with a pet. You will need to request a “pet ride” in both cases when booking.
For Uber Pet, you can bring one small animal, such as a cat or dog, per ride. The Lyft Pet Ride option fits up to four people and one “well-behaved animal.”
Some taxi companies allow pets to travel with riders. This may be up to each driver’s discretion in some cases.
Tips for Traveling With Your Pet
Along with considering the policies and requirements for traveling with pets, following these tips can help you have a smoother experience and ensure your pet’s safety while traveling.
- Get your furry friend vaccinated: Some airlines and public transportation companies require pets to be up to date on certain vaccines before traveling. Review each company’s policy and ensure that your pet has the necessary vaccines. You may also need to present vaccination documentation and a health certificate to the transportation company as proof that your pet is up to date.
- Know your pet’s temperament: Some pets are more comfortable travelers than others. Consider how your pet behaves on short car rides, in busy environments, and in new places. This can help you predict how they will respond to the stressors of your travels so you can prepare accommodations for them in advance.
- Find a veterinary hospital at your destination just in case: Research veterinary services for cats or dogs before your trip and take note of which options are near your destination. If your pet needs medical attention, you will know where to take them.
- Consider leaving your pet with a trusted pet sitter: Even when using pet-friendly transportation and taking steps to ensure travel safety for pets, traveling can be very stressful for animals. If possible, consider leaving your pet at home with a pet sitter or asking a trusted friend or family member to care of them while you are gone.
Schedule a Check-Up With Hudson Animal Hospital
Are you planning a trip with your cat or dog? Hudson Animal Hospital in Hudson, NY, is here to provide veterinary services, whether you are planning a dog road trip to the area or reside in Hudson and are preparing to travel elsewhere. We can provide more guidance on requirements for traveling with pets and ensure your pet is in good physical condition to travel.
Schedule an appointment today by calling 212-706-4088.