Whether it's a college football weekend, a camping get-away, or a leaf-peeping tour, autumn is the season for weekend getaways - often by car. Many travelers want to bring the family pet, but wonder whether they can enjoy a road trip with Buddy or Fluffy in the back seat.

Pet experts say that knowing your pet and taking the time to prepare for your trip are essential to successful car travel with a dog or cat.

• Know Your Pet. Before making arrangements, consider your pet's personality and flexibility. Many dogs enjoy a car ride around town, but some pets simply do not do well on long car trips. If your pet gets carsick on the way to the vet or groomer, don't subject him or her to a weekend-long drive.
• Think about Health. If you are traveling to a different area of the country, especially in the woods or countryside, you may expose your pets to new diseases because of parasites that are not common to your home region. Check with your veterinarian for advice if you aren't sure about risks to your pet.
• Consider your Destination. It's best to leave your pet behind if you plan to visit sites that are not pet-friendly. It's not fair to keep your pet cooped up alone in a strange hotel room, and you should NEVER leave a pet in the car.

If you decide that your pet is a good traveler and that your destination is safe and pet-friendly, it's time to start planning. Steps for successful travel with a pet include:

• Book Lodging Early. While more hotels and motels are opening rooms to travelers with pets, those accommodations can fill up quickly. Call early and ask about any restrictions, especially if you have a large or very active dog. If your hotel won't accept pets, check for nearby boarding kennels where your pet can spend the night. Best Friends offers quality boarding at more than three dozen locations around the U.S. Check Our Centers for the location nearest you.
• Prepare Identification Tags. Be sure your pet is wearing two sets of identification - one for your destination, and one for home. If he gets lost or separated from you during the trip, you want someone who finds him to be able to contact you right away - not after you arrive home. Bring along an extra set - just in case.
• Bring an Extra Leash. It's a smart idea to bring along an extra leash and collar - as well as extra identification - so you can keep track of your pet whenever you leave the car. Be sure to include a leash in your travel kit so your pet won't get separated from you in unfamiliar territory. You don't want your pet to disappear into the woods when you stop at a rest area on the highway.
• Pack the Familiar. Bring along a few of your pet's toys and some bedding from home. Dogs, in particular, are creatures of habit; familiar items will add a bit of comfort in a strange place.

Once you get underway, enjoy the road, but don't forget your pet's special needs:

• Stop for Stretch Breaks. You should make a stop about every two hours to give your pet a chance to get out and stretch.
• Offer Plenty of Water. Always carry fresh water and offer it to your pet frequently so he won't become dehydrated. A collapsible water bowl is easy to pack and carry.
• Don't Leave Pets in the Car. Never leave your pet alone in a parked car for more than a few minutes at a time. Even in autumn, temperatures can change suddenly, putting your pet at risk for heat stroke or hypothermia.

If you decide your pet would be happier staying behind or if you plan to use a boarding kennel on the road, be sure to make your reservations early. Good boarding kennels fill up quickly during the peak fall travel season weekends.