Pros and Cons of Sedation

Once you have your travel plans laid out and welcoming accommodations for you and your pet, you need to decide whether or not to use a sedative during your pet's travel. If you were stuck in the dark cargo area of a plane with the engines roaring in the background or kept in a car for a 10-hour road trip, you may prefer a sedative. But is this really a safe choice for your pet?

PETFIRST TIP Unless your veterinarian
recommends it in severe
cases, try to travel without the
use of sedatives.

Sedatives can reduce nervousness and fear, calm overactive pets, and help avoid separation anxiety. There are, however, risks to consider.

Sedatives can affect your pet's blood pressure and cause respiratory issues which can be worsened by air pressure changes during flight. This is even more risky considering your pet will be alone in the cargo area if a problem develops.

Most dogs and cats are able to adjust to their surroundings and relax in their carriers while on long trips.