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The Do's and Don'ts of Traveling with your Pets
- Do have a folder with you that contains all of your pet's vital medical
information, including vaccination records, medications and vet's phone number.
Make sure all shots are up to date; consider getting a Lyme disease
vaccine.
- Do make sure that your pet has identification securely attached.
Even though many dogs and some cats are now micro-chipped or tattooed, the
fastest way to recover a lost animal is with easily readable tags. List your
phone and cell number on the tag.
- Do call ahead and be prepared with the
necessary supplies and equipment that each campground may require.
- Do
provide a safe place for your pet to travel. Your pet will travel better and
feel more secure in a crate or carrier where they don't get thrown around in the
event of sudden stops and sharp turns. Prepare this place in your vehicle in
advance and introduce your pet to their "travel bed", making them comfortable
well before your trip. Familiar pads or pillows will ease the transition.
Harnesses that attach to seat belts can be purchased at most good pet suppliers
and are a good alternative to crating.
- Do provide ample opportunities for
your pet to get water, food and exercise while traveling. Be especially aware of
fluid intake and don't stress their systems by going that extra hour to the
campsite before allowing them to "stretch their legs".
- Do try to get a
site with some shade for your dog and shielded from other campers, if
possible.
- Do keep your pet as quiet as possible.
- Don't allow your pet
to run unleashed in strange places. Strange encounters, such as car horns, other
animals and unfamiliar territory, can cause any pet to run away from you, even
if it is well trained. This is the single most dangerous event for any pet.
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Don't expect every person to love your pet as much as you do. Some people have a
fear of animals, which will be recognized by your pet and cause them to react
negatively.
- Don't let your pet get overheated. Your dog will sunburn,
particularly light colored dogs and dogs in the South. Use a K-9 sunscreen,
particularly on the ears, nose and back. Also, make sure your pet doesn't get
overheated in the vehicle while you go into a restaurant or are away. Ice cubes
are a good way to let your pet consume fluids between stops.
- Don't forget
to carry a photograph of your pet at all times in case your pet gets lost.
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Don't wait until you get back home to seek medical attention if your pet is ill.
The local animal shelter will usually know and recommend a good vet in the area.
If it is an emergency, go to the first available vet.
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