Source: sfgate.com

Hitting the open road with our pet as co-pilot can really up the adventure ante. A trip with our four-legged friends just requires a little bit of extra planning and preparation to make it a meowing (or barking) success.

A recent article from washingtonpost.com shares some sound advice for pet parents who prefer to go exploring with their furry pals in tow.

Here are the highlights, with some of my own suggestions sprinkled in for good measure:

Comfort is key: Animals are creatures of habit, so be sure to pack your pet's favorite toys and food and something cozy for them to bed down in. If they will be traveling in a crate or carrier, be sure to familiarize them with it ahead of time, and stock up on pee pads just in case your pet has an accident while in route. I consider Rescue Remedy essential when I am taking my dog Lorna Doone to a new place. She is a "nervous nellie" by nature and just a few drops in her water bowl helps to take the edge off. I've also recently begun experimenting with D.A.P. (or "dog appeasing pheromone"), which is supposed to mimic the natural pheromone released by a mother dog to calm her pups.

Update ID: Tags should include your current cell phone number and address. Microchipping is also wise, as is keeping a recent photo of your pet in your wallet or on your phone in the rare case that you are separated.

Be prepared: Carry a small first aid kit that includes simple medical supplies, the phone number of your current vet, the national poison control hotline and a 24-hour pet hospital near your travel destination.

Up the exercise: To keep your pet calm and relaxed before and during the trip and after you reach your destination, be sure they get plenty of physical and mental stimulation.

Buckle up: Although you may be tempted to let your animal roam freely in the car, it is extremely important to make sure they are confined to the back seat or back cargo area — for both your safety and theirs. Many walking harnesses can double as a seat-belt harness.

For a bright future, let them wear shades: Dogs love to stick their heads out the window while driving. But this fun-loving activity can pose the risk of stuff flying into their eyes and causing an infection. Doggles are a brand of sunglasses for dogs to help protect their eyes on such an occassion.

Keep cats panic-free: One glance at the frequently changing scenery through a car window can send skittish kitties into a tizzy. Draping a light sheet around the carrier so the cat doesn't see the world whizzing by can help keep them feeling safe and secure. (For cats and small dogs, check out the smart design of Sleepypod mobile pet beds.)

Stick to a regular routine: If you are driving, take a roadside break every two hours and maintain your pet's normal feeding schedule.

Keep 'em cool: Two windows should remain open for a cross draft, or consider using a solar-powered fan. Never leave your pet in a hot car. Also be sure to bring along plenty of cold water. (I like the portable design of the Collaps-a-Bowl by Kurgo.)

Book wisely: If you and your pet are traveling by plane, try to book nonstop, midweek flights. In colder months, midday flights are preferable, and in warmer months, early morning or evening flights will be most comfortable for your pet. Pet Airways is a new all-pet airline and the Dogtravel Company enables dog parents to charter private flights and trains where their four-legged companion are allowed to sit in the seat next to them.

Get your pet ship shape: Currently, the only cruise line that accepts pets is Cunard's QE2, but many rules apply and available trips are infrequent.