Holiday Travel with Pets

PAWSITIVELY HELPFUL PET TIPS

WITH DR. DEB

"HOLIDAY TRAVEL WITH PETS"

+BE SURE YOUR PET IS WELCOME AT YOUR DESTINATION, whether it's a hotel or a friend/ family member's home.  It is also a good idea to bring a kennel for your pet if you need to leave him unattended for any period of time.

+MANAGE MOTION SICKNESS.  If your pet is prone to motion sickness, i.e. salivating or vomiting when riding in a car, plan ahead.  Talk to your veterinarian before you hit the road to talk about medication to keep these queasy feelings under control.

+VISIT WITH YOUR VETERINARIAN.  If your pet is a seasoned traveler, it is a good idea to check with your veterinarian if you're traveling out of state.  There may be  additional vaccinations or parasite control your pet need to be safe in these new areas.  Also a health certificate may be needed to travel to some locations.  It is always a good idea to carry documentation of your pet's vaccinations, especially his rabies certificate.

+UPDATE YOU PET'S IDENTIFICATION.  Make sure your pet's ID tag is legible and has your cell number on it.  MICROCHIP your pet and register your contact information before leaving.  If your pet already has a microchip, have your veterinary office scan the chip to be sure it is properly in place.  Also, verify that your contact information is correct with the microchip company.  Keep a current picture of your pet on your cell phone so it can be shared in the event your pet gets lost.

+THINK SAFETY FIRST! Make sure you've got an appropriately sized carrier or safety harness for your pet.  If your pet is traveling in a carrier, make sure it's level in the back seat, and secured if there's a quick stop.  Covering a kitty's carrier with a breathable piece of fabric may conceal sights and sounds from surrounding traffic.  Always have your dog on a leash when you stop, even if he(she) typically stays close in familiar neighborhoods.  A new sight or sound may frighten him(her) and he(she) could bolt.  It is always risky  to let your cat out of his(her) carrier while on the road.  Also, a cat loose in a car may be difficult to retrieve if could be injured or may not be found again.  It's best to wait until you're safely at your destination to let your cat out.

+PREPARE FOR PIT STOPS. Make frequent stops to allow your dog to stretch his(her) legs and relieve him(herself).  Use caution when at rest stops--the designated pet relief areas may not be very clean, making them a prime target for unwelcome parasites and disease.  Consider a less common stop such as a fresh patch of grass near a school or church--PLEASE PICK UP AFTER YOUR PET!!