|
As summer comes, most Americans embark on their annual travel routine to visit friends and family, and a lot of them will be bringing not just the kids but also their pets. It turns out that more than 70 percent of us go on vacation or travel with our pets on a regular basis. And while pet-friendly hotels and a wide range of supplies make traveling with pets easier, it still requires planning.
Is it a Good Idea to Bring My Pet?
Remember that some pets are not too comfortable with traveling. So before you bring your 'best friend' with you, go through the following checklist first:
• Is it safe if I bring my pet with me?
Honestly evaluate your animal's health and his ability to travel.
• Does my pet like to travel?
If your pet just runs away when you open that car door, it might be best to just have him stay with a pet sitter instead of bringing him with you.
• 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'.
• Preparation
If your dog's only travel experience has been going to the vet, you may want to practice him on the art of traveling in a car, preferable a few weeks before you really take him on long trips. Start with short trips, such as 5 or 10 minute drives. When you get home from these short trips, don't forget to give him a treat , then start lengthening the next trips.
• Road Safety
If you travel with your kids, you always fasten their seatbelts. Do the same for your pets. It's a must for you to restrain your pet as you travel. You do not need to always go with those metal travel crates, as there are other options nowadays that offer more comfort and mobility . Think safety harnesses that can attach to any seatbelt, or even safety gates that will allow your pet some mobility in their own space, as you travel. 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. All objects, including food and medicine, should be properly stowed, and all closet and cabinet doors should be securely closed. Use gates to block off space for smaller pets, to minimize injuries as you do sudden stops or turns. Whether you drive an RV or a regular vehicle, make sure you do regular pit stops for your pets. Also make sure your pets have their leash as you open your vehicle's doors when you go for these pit stops.
• 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. And last but not least, bring your pet's health certificate especially if you are traveling across state lines, as most states might sometimes ask for it.
Daxx is a retired school teacher who is now relieving the boredom of retirement by promoting a varied collection of sites such as this one for weber gas grills and a site for finding the best samsung color wheel for your dlp set.
|
|
SIGN
UP FOR FREE
