The Wirecutter Show: Traveling With Pets

Release Date: October 30, 2024
Hosts: Christine Cyr Clissette, Kyra Blackwell, Rosie Guerin
Guest: Mel Plout, Wirecutter Staff Pet Gear Writer

Introduction

In this episode titled "Traveling With Pets," hosts Christine Cyr Clissette, Kyra Blackwell, and Rosie Guerin delve into the challenges and best practices of traveling with pets. They are joined by Mel Plout, an expert in pet gear and an experienced traveler with pets, who shares invaluable insights from their extensive testing and personal adventures.

Personal Experiences and Realizations

Kyra Blackwell opens the discussion by candidly sharing her experiences traveling with her nearly decade-old black cat. She admits, “Maybe I should have known that [traveling with a pet in a backpack] was bad. Am I a bad pet parent?” ([01:28]). This admission sets the stage for a deeper exploration into proper pet travel practices.

Christine and Rosie commend Kyra’s efforts, with Christine humorously noting, “I am impressed that you can even travel with your cat. My cat freaks out if we even open the door of our apartment” ([00:32]).

Expert Insights: Mel Plout’s Pet Carrier Testing

Mel Plout joins the conversation, bringing a wealth of knowledge from Wirecutter’s rigorous testing processes. Mel explains their comprehensive approach to testing pet carriers, which includes:

• Durability Testing: Using simulated pet behaviors to test carrier resilience. For example, Mel describes rubbing a “vomit concoction” inside carriers to assess cleanliness and resistance ([06:18], [06:33]).

• Comfort and Safety Assessments: Mel carried a 15-pound bag of rice in each carrier to evaluate human comfort and structural integrity during simulated long hours of travel ([07:33]).

• Ventilation Measurements: Adhering to International Air Transport Association guidelines, Mel meticulously measured ventilation areas to ensure carriers meet or exceed safety standards ([08:34], [09:31]).

Mel also shares amusing anecdotes from testing, such as nearly adopting 20 new cats at a rescue organization after observing their interactions with different carriers ([09:44]).

Notable Quote:
“We have to hold them snugly so they don’t become projectiles in case of sudden stops or crashes” — Mel Plout ([13:11]).

Traveling by Car with Pets

The hosts transition to the specifics of car travel. Mel emphasizes the importance of restraining pets to prevent distractions and ensure safety:

• Carrier Size and Fit: Mel advises measuring pets based on manufacturer guidelines, ensuring they can sit, stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably within the carrier ([11:55], [12:57]).

• Securing the Carrier: Utilizing tie-down hooks or seatbelt attachments is crucial to prevent the carrier from moving during transit ([19:38]).

• Risks of Unrestrained Travel: Kyra admits to previously allowing her cat to roam the car, only to learn it poses significant safety risks, such as becoming a projectile or causing driver distraction ([13:11]).

Notable Quote:
“Some form of restraint is better than none. No pet should be roaming around” — Mel Plout ([11:01]).

Flying with Pets

The conversation shifts to the complexities of air travel with pets. Mel outlines the key considerations and challenges:

• Airline Policies: Each airline has unique regulations regarding pet carriers, including size restrictions and the number of pets allowed in the cabin. It’s essential to verify these details in advance ([25:11], [26:34]).

• Carrier Requirements: Choosing a carrier that closely matches airline specifications while ensuring pet comfort is paramount. Mel highlights the difficulty in standardizing carriers due to varying airline rules ([27:39], [27:41]).

• Handling Accidents: Preparing for potential pet accidents on the plane involves bringing wet wipes, pee pads, and plastic bags. Mel stresses the importance of being conscientious toward fellow passengers and managing clean-up discreetly ([28:14], [28:27]).

Notable Quote:
“Each airline likely has its own size requirements for a carrier for in-cabin travel” — Mel Plout ([25:50]).

International Travel with Pets

Traveling internationally introduces additional layers of complexity:

• Health Certifications: Most countries require a vet-issued health certificate within a specific timeframe before travel. Mel recounts the meticulous process of obtaining these documents, including microchipping and vaccinations ([35:08], [35:13]).

• Country-Specific Regulations: Each destination may have unique requirements. Thorough research and advance planning are critical to ensure compliance and the pet’s safety ([35:31]).

Notable Quote:
“For international travel, most countries will require your animal to have a microchip” — Mel Plout ([35:08]).

Controversial Topic: Misuse of Service Dog Certifications

A particularly sensitive segment addresses the inappropriate use of service dog certifications to bypass pet travel regulations:

• Abuse of System: Mel strongly criticizes individuals falsely using service dog status to bring large pets on flights, highlighting how it undermines genuine accessibility needs ([37:03], [38:45]).

• Impact on Genuine Service Animals: Misuse leads to stricter regulations and increased difficulties for individuals who truly rely on service dogs for assistance ([38:51]).

Notable Quote:
“No, it's not okay. It ruins it for the people who genuinely have to travel with actual trained service dogs” — Mel Plout ([37:03]).

Final Takeaways and Recommendations

As the episode nears its conclusion, the hosts and Mel summarize actionable advice for listeners:

• Securing Pets in Vehicles: Ensure carriers are appropriately sized and securely fastened to prevent movement during travel ([41:02]).

• Preparing for Air Travel: Equip carriers with necessary hygiene supplies and consider behavioral strategies for anxious pets. Mel recommends using pheromone sprays and consulting with a vet for anxiety management ([41:21], [41:45]).

• Booking Pet-Friendly Accommodations: Advance reservations are crucial, as availability can be limited and fees may vary ([33:24]).

• Microchipping and Identification: Regardless of travel plans, microchipping pets enhances their safety and increases the likelihood of recovery if they become lost ([34:32]).

Notable Quote:
“Any medication that's new, do it at home when you're within spitting distance of your vet” — Mel Plout ([33:07]).

Conclusion

The episode wraps up with personal reflections from Rosie and Kyra, emphasizing the importance of responsible pet travel and the sacrifices involved in being a dedicated pet parent. They underscore the necessity of preparation, understanding regulations, and prioritizing pet safety to ensure enjoyable and stress-free journeys.

Final Thought from Kyra:
“For me, it's definitely restrain my cat when I'm driving upstate next time. And I also think I need to get a new carrier” ([41:02]).

For more detailed recommendations and product links mentioned in this episode, visit nytimes.com/wirecutter.

This summary captures the essence of "Traveling With Pets" from The Wirecutter Show, providing listeners with comprehensive insights and practical advice for pet-friendly travel.