SUMMER VACATION PLANS INCLUDE A TRIP WITH YOUR PET? A LITTLE PLANNING CAN MAKE FOR AN ENJOYABLE EXPERIENCE
1. Start your trip with a healthy pet.
Visit your veterinarian at least one week before you begin your trip to be sure your pet is healthy and all vaccinations are current. In addition, your veterinarian can tell you if the part of the country you are planning to visit indicates that there are any particular conditions or diseases like heartworm or Lyme disease for which your pet may require vaccinations or medications.
A health examination following your trip should be considered to determine if any internal parasites (roundworms, hookworms, heartworms) or external parasites (ticks, fleas) were picked up in contaminated exercise or wooded areas.
Also, ask your veterinarian for a referral to a veterinary hospital in your destination location in case of emergency.
2. Be sure to pack the paperwork and identification.
Be sure to have a current health certificate, license and proof of all vaccinations. Bring your veterinarian’s phone number along as well in case there are any non-emergency questions that arise but need to be answered.
Identification tags should include owner and pet’s name, address, and a phone number to be reached while on vacation. A pocket-style ID holder allows you to store temporary phone numbers as well as relevant medical information (such as required medications and a schedule of chronic medical conditions) with your pet. Microchip identification is ideal because it will be there even if your pet slips out of its collar.
3. Make sure your pet is travel-worthy.
Not all pets are good travelers. It's best to get your pet accustomed to riding in a car especially if it’s not a part of your normal activity. Take your pet on short trips (10-15 minutes) to the store or to a park for a game of fetch. Gradually lengthen the drives so your pet is in the car for a few hours. This can help your pet avoid feeling nervous or agitated, and may lessen the effects of motion sickness. If, after a number of practice trips, your pet continues to whine excessively or becomes sick, consult your veterinarian.
4. Stay safe and comfortable while traveling in the car.
Buckling up is an important safety precaution for your pet. Many states now require that pets be restrained while in a moving vehicle, and restraints have several advantages. They help protect pets in case of a collision, and they keep pets from running loose and distracting the driver. They also keep pets from escaping the car through an open window or door. Cats and smaller dogs are often most comfortable in pet carriers.
Always keep a car window open so your pet has fresh air and when you park, try to find a nice patch of shade and don't leave your dog in the car unattended for more than a few minutes. If the weather is warm, use your air conditioning and make sure that air is being circulated frequently. Take breaks at least every three hours to allow your pet to exercise and relieve itself.
5. Plan ahead for all travel and lodging accommodations.
This is especially important during peak travel times when motels, hotels, and campgrounds fill up quickly. Many accommodations do not accept pets and some that do have only a limited number of rooms available to pet owners.
Also, be aware of any unique laws. Some places have restrictions on exotic animals (ferrets are not allowed in some cities), and there are restrictive breed laws in others, such as no pit bulls allowed. Your pet could be affected by these laws, so call ahead to the city or travel information bureau for more information.
6. Make sure your dog is well-trained before taking to the road.
Work with your dog on basic obedience commands before you embark on a trip of any length. This will help keep your pet safe and give you and your family the opportunity to enjoy the vacation. Keep your dog leashed and make sure you clean up after your pet in all public and private locations.
7. Try to create a traveling environment that is as close to "home" as possible.
Plan to feed your pet the same food at the same time you feed her at home. Also, if your pet sleeps on a favorite blanket or pet pillow, bring it along to help create a comfortable and secure environment while away from home.
While packing for your trip, remember to throw in a few of your pet's favorite toys, food/water bowls and leash. You should also carry a first aid kit for your pet, and know basic pet first aid. If your pet takes any regular medications, be sure to have plenty for the trip.
While many pets are happier if allowed to travel with the family, you must always balance the desire with your pet's overall health and safety. Consider whether your pet would be safer and more comfortable in a boarding facility or staying with another family while you travel.
With a little preparation and forethought, traveling with your pet can be a safe and enjoyable experience for the entire family.
