More pets are traveling with their owners these days—car travel is up 300 percent over 2005—so it's easier to find pet-friendly locales. Look for destinations that allow pets, and ask about rules (such as weight limits) and fees. Various hotel chains, including Sheraton, Kimpton, Embassy Suites, Motel 6, and Loews, accept furry guests, and some offer free treats. In pet-friendly cities such as Philadelphia; Tucson; and Portland, Oregon, you'll find off-leash dog parks plus outdoor seating at many eateries for you and Rover. Visit dogfriendly.com, petfriendlytravel.com, and pettravelcenter.com for more resources.

Take a Test Run
A big road trip shouldn't be your pet's first journey in the car. Start now with a drive around the neighborhood of no more than 15 minutes, and then—assuming your pet doesn't panic or get sick—go on progressively longer jaunts. Many pets love car travel, but others get queasy. So your vet may recommend antinausea medications such as Cerenia (available by prescription) or Dramamine (sold over the counter) to make for a smoother ride, says Martha Smith, D.V.M., of the Animal Rescue League of Boston.

Play Tag
All pets should wear collars and hanging travel tags, just in case they get separated from you. The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) also supports the use of trackable microchips for pets; you can find free implantation services at some veterinary clinics, while others may charge between $20 and $50 for the procedure, plus a registration fee. Travel tags should display rabies inoculation and identification information along with your cell phone number or other local contact information. It's no good if someone who finds your wandering pooch calls you in Savannah when you're vacationing in Orlando.

Buckle Up
Cats and small dogs should ride in secured carriers when inside your moving vehicle, but larger dogs that do not fit in a carrier need seat belts—just like you. Pet stores sell special restraint systems and can help you with precise fitting. Always be sure to keep your animal securely strapped in the seat—and out of your lap—while the car is in motion. After all, if you suddenly need to hit the brakes, you don't want your pet to become a hazard, get hurt, or worse, says Stephen Zawistowski, ASPCA executive vice president.

Take Paws
On long road trips, stop at least every two hours to let dogs relieve themselves and stretch. And when walking the dog, don't let him lick fluids on the ground—engine coolant, for instance, is toxic. If you're driving more than four hours at a time, house a cat in a carrier big enough for a water dish and a litter pan. It may get a little messy, but your kitty should stay inside the vehicle at all times.

Fly the Furry Skies
For flights, your cat or small dog possibly can ride in a carrier under your seat. But dogs too large for this space must fly as cargo and travel in a USDA-approved kennel, with a veterinary health certificate issued no more than ten days before the trip. The ASPCA doesn't recommend cargo transport—temperatures in exposed loading areas can be extreme, and some dogs may become stressed. If your pooch must travel this way, contact your airline in advance to learn about any requirements (such as additional shipping fees) and make certain you book a nonstop flight (to avoid handling missteps).

Keep a Record
Pack an up-to-date veterinary history, proof of vaccinations, and your vet's contact information. If an emergency should happen away from home, Smith says, you should visit a veterinary clinic accredited by the American Animal Hospital Association: contact a local animal shelter for suggestions or find a local clinic at healthypet.com. And prevent problems by anticipating troublesome situations. For example, if your pet typically freaks out during thunderstorms and requires antianxiety medication, remember to pack the prescription.

Make Your Pet Comfy
Bring familiar bedding, food, and toys, and don't leave your pet alone for hours. If you have a dog, come back for breaks when possible. And if a long tour can't wait, track down a doggy daycare or have your pup walked by a professional pet sitter—you can find one at petsitters.org or petsit.com—so your sweetie can get her own change of scenery.