Vacationing with your Pets
It’s time for fun in the sun, and
with some careful planning your pet can enjoy the summer as much
as you do.
Traveling by Car or RV
If you’re vacationing by car or RV, it’s important to
have with you some basic essentials.
For all pets, food and water
(obviously!) are important. There are collapsible food and
water containers and bowls available from most pet stores and
outdoor supply stores. Bring along some drinking water so Fido
won’t be as tempted to drink from puddles at the rest stops
(who knows what’s in the water).
Never let your pet off leash in
an unfamiliar area, and have supplies with you to clean
up after your pet.
Traveling by Plane
If traveling by plane, check with the airline
concerning any regulations they might have. Most airlines
require a health certificate to be filled out by a
veterinarian, following a physical examination typically given
within 10 days of travel.
Choose a direct flight if at
all possible, or one with the shortest layover, and don’t
travel when the temperatures are extreme.
Make sure to have the clip-on
water bowls hooked to the carrier door, so airline workers
can give water when needed.
However you get to your
destination, be sure Fido and Fluffy have ID tags, and consider
having a microchip placed as further protection. The
ID tag should have your cell phone number, or the number of a
dependable contact back home. Your home phone number won’t
help much if you’re not there to answer it.
It’s also a good idea to have
proof of current vaccinations, even if you don’t need a
health certificate.
Consider
the kind of environments you may be traveling in. For
example you may not need flea protection for your pet while
living at home, but it would be wise to start flea and tick
prevention before traveling and exposing your pet to parasites
that they may encounter in new locations. Keep in mind your dog
is not the only one who has been at the rest stop lately, or
staying in that hotel room, and the last dog may not be as well
cared for as yours.
Also, carry a clear picture of
your pet to have printed on flyers if the unthinkable
happens and he gets lost.
Last, but not least, check ahead
to be sure pets are welcome where you’re going.
Mostly, HAVE FUN!
Vacationing with your pet can be rewarding and entertaining for
both of you. It’s like taking a little bit of home (the best
part, actually) with you.
Adapted by Dr. Kathy Kallay
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