As many families are packing their bags this summer for vacation, they face the difficult decision to either board their pets during the trip or bring them along to join the fun.
With many hotels and vacation rentals now being ‘pet friendly’, hundreds of people tote their pets along on their trips.
If you have decided to bring your pet on your vacation this summer there are a few tips and guidelines to follow to ensure the pet’s safety and health during your travels –
1~ Train for Travel. If you are unsure if your pet is comfortable riding for long periods in the car, spend some time preparing them for the trip in the weeks before you leave. Purchase a crate, to ensure vehicle safety, that is large enough for your dog or cat to move around in and take them for short drives daily – getting them used to traveling.
2~ Make Sure You’re Prepared. Always make sure that your pet’s vaccinations are fully up to date and that they have tags on their collar with your contact information, or a microchip. It is also a good time to check to ensure that their leash, harness or collar is the correct size so that they are comfortable for the trip.
3~ Be Vet Ready. Before departure, take the time to look up the contact information for the local veterinarians office at your vacation destination – in case of emergency. Also remember to pack a copy of your pet’s health records. Take screen shots of the pet records with your cell phone, for quick access, if needed.
4~ Stop for Breaks. Although you may be in a mad rush to reach your destination, remember to stop frequently to allow your pet the time for a little exercise and to eliminate. Always keep them on a leash with their proper ID tags attached when stopping.
5~ Never Leave Them in the Car. On warm days the temperature in a vehicle can quickly rise above 100 degrees in a matter of minutes, even with the windows cracked. Never leave your pet alone in the car while on the road.
6~ Check with Airlines. If traveling by air be sure to contact your airline to make sure that their pet cargo area is air conditioned. You can also visit the HSUS Website to ensure the safety measures for pets at each airline. It’s also a good idea to talk to your vet about possibly medicating your pet before the flight for better relaxation.
7~ Never Leave Your Pet Alone for Long Periods. If you decide to leave your pet in the hotel room alone, always make sure they have adequate food and water and keep them in a crate for safety. Place the ‘do not disturb’ sign on the door so that they are not bothered or startled by staff while you are out.
8~ Bring Them Along. If you plan on hiking or sightseeing during the trip, always bring along a supply of water for both you and your pet to avoid dehydration. Make sure to stop for breaks with them and keep a sharp eye out for unknown plants, animals or other hazards that can cause harm and unexpected vet visits.
With a little preparation and planning, there is no reason that your pet can’t enjoy a fun summer vacation with the family – making it a memorable trip for everyone.
