NATIONWIDE — Some of our most powerful vacation memories might involve our pets.

Maybe we left them behind, in the care of others. But sometimes we took them with us.

Fido might have loved the smells and sounds of a vacation paradise. The cats might have had a great time.

But getting to that vacation can be a bit complicated. Maybe there wasn’t a choice; there are “unusual” pets. Maybe there wasn’t a pet caregiver to be had. Maybe your pet has medical issues and nobody will take that on.

The internet, in all its wisdom, has suggestions.

First, research. If you’re crossing state lines, your unusual pet may be an illegal pet. Find out what the rules are. Monty Python’s Flying Squirrel, for instance, is considered a wild animal in some places. Monty, who lives for food, television and the cats, would be amused, but hey, it’s a funny world.

Second, carriers. Appropriate carriers or harnesses for all creatures. You do not want animals wandering around in the car and leaping into your lap at a poorly chosen time. Or leaping out of the car. Or biting through a cheap leash, much to your surprise.

Then practice. Take your pet(s) for drives, and do not go near the vet. How did the animals do? Did they get carsick? Anxious? There might be medicine for that. Traveling can be really stressful for cats, but there are ways to cope. Ask your vet.

And in fact the vet is next. What should you watch for? Is special care required, especially for an older pet? Is everyone caught up on shots? Sometimes motels will ask for a rabies certificate.

Then the planning begins.

The drive to your vacation spot should be planned around your pet. Will there be places to stop for dog bathroom breaks? Water breaks? Make sure they have a chance to drink. You can offer the litter box to the cats, although they may not take you up on it until you stop for the night.

More planning: you will never, ever leave your pet unattended in the car. Cars get hot in the summer. Sorry, if you want to see attractions, someone needs to stay in the air-conditioned car with the pets. Of course, some places welcome dogs. You need to find out in advance.

Shades can help keep things cool too.

Still more planning: where to stay. Call in advance and tell them about your furry (or feathery or scaly) companions. Places like petswelcome.com list motels that welcome a certain number of pets per person. Call and make sure that’s still true. Make reservations.

Gopetfriendly.com will even map out a route for you.

Dogs stay on the leash. Learn from our experience: hold onto that leash tightly. Especially when you’re around something that could startle or interest your dog.

According to progressive.com, you can leash-train cats so they too can get out for a walk. Our cats were displeased with the outside world and preferred their carriers. But one never knows!

Pack comforts. Progressive.com also lists comforting things to bring along and remind your pet of home.

Whether you’re traveling with your pet because you love Fido, the cats and ol’ Monty and want them to share your vacation, or because you have no choice, it doesn’t have to be a miserable experience. Talk to your vet, plan ahead, and enjoy the quality time.

If nothing else, you’ll have stories to entertain your friends with when you get home.