Four invaluable pet travel websites

Not that any of us with pets really need an excuse to hit the open road with our four-legged friends, but I’ll give you one anyway. Next week (May 6 through 12) is National Pet Week, meaning it’s the perfect time to show your devoted pup or cat a little love by taking them on an adventure.

To prepare for your trip, you’re going to need to do a bit of research. Here are a few of my favorite websites to use when planning an outing with my pup.

• Pet Travel Center is one of the best places to find information on almost everything you need to know before you go, including general travel tips and articles, and airline regulations. There’s also a community of fellow travelers and a travel gear store. The vet directory is particularly useful for cautious pet owners.
• You can book hotels, find state leash regulations, research airline policies, buy a car seat, or ask Pepper, the travel dog, for advice at TripswithPets.com.
• If you’re going to fly with your furry friend, Petflight provides invaluable information about airline regulations, pet incidents, and flight travel tips.
• Most pet-friendly accommodations are chain hotels, but BnBfinder.com offers more than 500 B&Bs and inns that accept your four-legged pal. Check with the individual establishment for policies before booking.

Whether you celebrate at home or on the road, I wish you and yours a very happy National Pet Week.