For many people, the holiday season is a time to visit friends and family around the world. And in many cases, that means crowded airports, delayed flights, lost luggage and other travel-related challenges.
As the holiday season nears, airports are gearing up for a surge in travelers, including a noticeable number of furry companions at Transportation Security Administration (TSA) checkpoints.
It's worth noting some recent incidents that underscore the importance of adhering to the correct protocol. In two separate events, pets — a cat and a dog — were mistakenly placed for X-ray scans. Thankfully, both animals were unharmed, but these situations highlight the need to be fully aware of the dos and don’ts of traveling with pets.
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What Pet Owners Need To Know At TSA Checkpoints
- Always bring pets in a hand-held travel carrier. Before the screening begins, remove your pet.
- The travel carrier must be X-rayed, but never place your pet inside the X-ray tunnel.
- During screening, hold your pet or let them walk alongside you on a leash. Never let them wander unattended.
- Post-screening, TSA officers will use an explosive trace detection swab on the pet owner's hands to rule out any security threats.
- After security clearance, safely place your pet back in the carrier at the designated recomposure area.
Tips For A Hassle-Free Journey With Your Pet
- Preparation is key: Get your pet accustomed to the travel carrier days in advance to ease their anxiety during the actual journey.
- Respect working canines: While at the airport, steer clear of service dogs and their handlers. If you come across one, opt for an alternate checkpoint.
- Know your pet: Gauge your pet’s temperament and ensure you can manage them in bustling environments like airports.
- Pet relief areas: Make sure to familiarize yourself with the various pet relief zones available at the airport.
Take To The Road In An RV
Depending on the length of your trip, it can be intimidating to jump behind the wheel and hit the road. But you can put many of your anxieties to rest by leaving your vehicle behind in exchange for an RV.
Traveling in an RV gives you unparalleled flexibility, letting you set your own pace and change destinations as you wish. It's also more comfortable and convenient for your furry friend.
An RV journey also offers a personalized experience, helping you foster closer connections with your travel companions — including your pets — and the environment around you.
It's easy to shoot down this idea on the grounds that you don't own an RV. But that's no longer a problem.
Wallabing — a peer-to-peer rental marketplace — connects owners, renters and travelers. You can rent an RV for your holiday needs, enjoy your trip and return it to the owner when the time comes.
Remember this: 44% of people who go RVing do not own an RV. So, if you want to avoid the stress of flying with a pet this holiday season, you may have found the solution.
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© 2024 Benzinga.com. Benzinga does not provide investment advice. All rights reserved.
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