This summer season, millions of Americans will be hitting the roads to spend time with friends and relatives, vacationing in cities and national parks, and many will be bringing their companion animals with them. It turns out that more than 70 percent of us go on vacation or travel with our pets on a regular basis. There are hotels and places you can stay in that are pet-friendly, which make it a bit easier, but you still need to do some basic planning yourself.
Should I Bring My Pet?
Remember that some pets are not too comfortable with traveling. Before heading out on the road with your four-legged friend, ask yourself the following questions:
• Is it safe if I bring my pet with me?
Honestly evaluate your animal's health and his ability to travel.
• Is my pet used to traveling?
If your dog runs and hides when you open the car door, consider hiring a pet sitter and leaving him at home.
• Will this trip be appropriate for my pet
Some destinations just are not pet-friendly.
If, after answering these questions, you feel that the trip is in your pet's best interest, or if it is necessary because you are moving, taking the proper precautions can minimize the risk to your 'best friend'.
• Do Your Homework
If your pet's only experience in a car has been a trip to the vet, you will want to acclimate him to riding in the car a few weeks before your trip. You can start by taking him on short trips first, for example, when you shop for groceries and when you do your errands. And always remember to end the trip with a positive reward, such as a special treat or fun activity. Slowly lengthen the trips to 30 minutes or one hour.
• Safety on the Road
We fasten our seatbelts, so why not our pets? For your animal's safety, always restrain him when traveling. You do not need to always go with those metal travel crates, as there are other options nowadays that offer more comfort and mobility . Safety harnesses, which attach to any seatbelt, allow your animal to sit or stand comfortably, while safety gates, made either of metal or mesh, give him mobility in a restricted area. Sturdy, well ventilated crates are a must for smaller animals, such as cats, that normally don't travel as much as dogs.
RV's offer pet-owners more freedom and interaction with their animals, but it's still important to pet-proof these rolling homes. Make sure all items, such as food or medicine, are properly stowed and secured inside your RV. To avoid injury to loose animals during sudden stops and turns, block off small areas with baby gates. No matter what type of vehicle you drive, you will need to stop every few hours for a pet pit stop. And always remember to put the leash on your pet before you open the vehicle's doors.
• Travel Kit
Always pack a separate bag for your pet. To avoid an upset stomach, take some of his favorite food, as well as a gallon of water because water characteristics change regionally. For cats, it's a good idea to bring a disposable litter box. It should come in handy for those emergencies or overnight stops. You will also need to bring a pet first-aid kit and some extra towels, in case of accidents. And a favorite toy or pillow will give your animal a sense of familiarity. Keep a current health certificate for your pet handy during interstate travel, because many states require one.
Author Resource:
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