Traveling with your pet this holidayPlan ahead before you travel with pets this holiday season. season?  You're not alone - a recent survey by AAA found that more than 75% of people would rather travel with their pets than their spouses!

However the holiday season, always a hectic and busy time, can get a bit hairier when there are pets involved.  Here are some tips on how to keep your pet travel running smoothly from Turkey Day to Auld Lang Syne.

Know before you go

Many airports have shortened customs hours or close completely during the holidays. If you are planning on traveling internationally with your pet during the holiday season, make sure you know in advance what days and times your pets can enter. We recently posted Costa Rica's holiday hours at San Juan International Airport, as well as Australia's pet quarantine hours during the holiday season.  How can you be sure you have the necessary airport information prior to your trip?  Well, if you have an iPhone, there's an app for that!  Otherwise, check out IATA, which provides up to date customs and airport information for domestic and international travelers.

Book smart

Try to arrange your flights on off-peak days. Airports tend to get hectic and there are typically more delays on major holiday travel days. While you might be okay with waiting in the airport for six hours, your pet might not be. Flying on days that are calmer can have a reciprocal affect on your pet's stress levels.

ID's are important for pets too

If you are staying out of town with your pet, make sure your pet has temporary ID tags in case he or she gets lost. Make sure your cell phone number is on the tags as well as a local number or address for your out of town stay. This simple step can make all the difference in whether you get a phone call or not.

Have a back up plan

Even best laid plans can change in an instant during the holiday season.  Having a back up plan in case you miss your flight, your pet gets sick in or you get snowed is an important part of any good holiday travel plans.  Research local veterinarians in the area you're traveling to in case you have to make an emergency phone call.  Have a pet sitter on call in case your pet's trip gets delayed or you have to leave your pet at home.

"Keep calm and carry on."

Adopt this popular mantra as your personal pep talk during the holidays, particularly if you have pets.  Animals are very perceptive and can tell when their pack leader (that's you!) is under distress.  This means that your anxieties can become your pet's anxieties.  If you remember to "keep calm and carry on," chances are your pet will too!