How to Travel With a Pomeranian

Pomeranians are a small breed of dog that some will stick into an oversize bag and take with them everywhere. Traveling longer distances with a Pomeranian by car or airplane, however, requires planning to provide the dog with everything it needs for the trip. Before taking your Pomeranian on the next family vacation, consider the dog's age, health and general mental state before deciding whether it should come along, or remain at home.

Instructions

Traveling by Airplane

1

Call the airline company at least two weeks before your travel date. Inquire about its pet policies, as some airlines will allow you to bring the dog on board, while others require it be placed in the cargo hold. Take into consideration the dog's health if it must travel in the cargo, as this area is not temperature-regulated and will cause undue stress.

2

Prepare the dog's crate for the airplane. Check with the airline for any restrictions on the crate's size and construction. Cover the bottom of the crate with newspaper and provide the dog with some comforts from home including a blanket or favorite toy. Choose a crate that is sturdy with a leak-proof bottom and has a handle and ventilation holes on the sides to ensure the dog does not become overheated.

3

Create a care package for the dog, especially if you are traveling a great distance. Bring along dog food, two dog bowls, bottled water, the Pomeranian's medications, bandages and a flea collar. Keep these items inside a small suitcase or backpack along with the animal's vaccination certificate, which is required by most airlines.

4

Feed your dog two to three hours before the flight. This will ensure your dog is satisfied and will cut down on the chances of motion sickness. Allow the dog to relieve itself right before the flight as well.

5

Follow the airline's protocol concerning checking the dog in for the flight. Bring the dog on to the airplane and place it in the designated area, which is generally under the seat.

6

Feed and provide the Pomeranian with water based upon the flight's length. If the flight is shorter than eight hours, only provide the Pomeranian with water, especially if it was fed hours before take-off. Otherwise, provide the dog with both food and water if the flight is longer.

7

Pet the dog and talk to it during the flight if it becomes nervous. Providing the dog with comfort will help make the flight less stressful for it, and you.

8

Remove the dog immediately from the crate after you have landed and picked up your luggage. Allow the dog to relieve itself if necessary and wash any excrement or urine from the Pomeranian's fur as soon as possible.

Traveling by Car

9

Prepare your Pomeranian for the car ride by taking it on short trips around the neighborhood, according to the American Kennel Club. This will familiarize the dog with car rides, easing its anxiety during a longer trip.

10

Pack a bag filled with the dog's food, bowls, toys, blankets and anything else it will require on the trip. If the dog is riding in a crate, cover the bottom with newspaper and set a blanket inside to keep the dog comfortable.

11

Avoid feeding the dog before the trip, if possible. Otherwise, feed it three to four hours beforehand to prevent motion sickness. Before the trip, allow the dog to relieve itself as well.

12

Provide a seat belt restraint or dog car seat for the Pomeranian, which are available at pet stores. The restraints prevent the smaller breed from falling during the car ride. During the ride, give the dog a toy to keep it occupied and pet the dog to keep it calm if it becomes anxious.

13

Allow your dog to void and run every two to three hours of the trip. Find a wayside or other pet-friendly area and be courteous to the other travelers by cleaning up after your dog.