It sounds easy: load up Fluffy or Spot in the car and let's go! But if you're going for more than a joy ride, you'll want to do a little planning. And if your pet has a medical condition or takes medication, a little extra planning.
My husband and I have traveled all over the country with our dog for as long as three weeks at a time. Many hotels and even bed and breakfast accommodations now accept dogs and cats, especially if pets are small and/or well-behaved.
Not all dogs and cats travel well. Some pets have a fear of riding in cars or get car sick. Try a few short trips first to get your pet acclimated to riding and to observe how the pet feels and behaves. Ask your vet about medications and alternative remedies that can soothe anxiety without other side effects, or that can help with the nausea caused by motion.
Travel Cautions
We've all had that sensation - on a hot day you open the car door and the blast of heat just about knocks you over. Now imagine your animal companion in there. Despite numerous warnings every spring, I often see overheated pets in cars.
Please be kind to your pets and make sure they don't stay in a car while you "run in for a minute." Those minutes add up quickly on a warm day. On an 80-degree day, the inside of a car can quickly heat up to over 120, the point at which a dog can suffer brain damage and death. Even on a cool day, a car sitting in the sun can heat up to dangerous levels. California has even made it a crime to keep a dog in a parked car.
Another danger to your pets is a sudden stop that can send them flying. Make sure that your pet is properly restrained in a kennel or harness. Since these devices vary so much according to the type and size of your pet, ask your veterinarian for recommendations.
Checklist of Items to Pack
Here is a list to start with for things to take on your trip:
Food: prescription or otherwise, measure out enough to last as long as you're gone
Water and food bowls
Supplements: vitamins, etc.
Treats
Leash and collar (including ID and other tags)
Kennel (if your pet uses one for travel and/or sleeping)
Bed or blanket
Toys
Towels (to wipe muddy or wet paws)
Grooming tools: brush, nail clippers, etc.
Certificate of shots (when going across state or country borders)
It seems like a long list, but most items don't take up much space, and it's worth the trouble to take along your companion. Your pets need to get out of the car for a quick walk and a drink of water, and so do you. Plan to stop for a break every two to three hours.
Pets with Medical Conditions or Medications
Many pets with medical conditions can still travel with you, as long as you plan for their needs. Check in with your Veterinarian to make sure that your pet can tolerate the trip. Make sure that you have the correct food and medications with you at all times. Plan to take enough of everything you'll need, as it can be difficult to find the exact food and prescriptions you need while on the road.
Here is a list of additional items to consider when traveling with a sick pet:
Prescription food (if applicable)
All medications
A list of all medications and dosages - in case you are incapacitated, someone else can administer medications to your pet
Copies of any prescriptions, in case you run out or forget something
Any testing supplies (if applicable)
Other care items (IVs, bandages, etc.)
Now you and your animal companions are ready for some road trip fun! Your planning will pay off with some great adventures.
I write and speak about my passions - including animals, fundraising, business and travel. Please join me at Pet Health Focus (http://www.pethealthfocus.com), an online community for people caring for animals.
My latest book, "Your Diabetic Dog," deals with the day-to-day care of dogs with this chronic illness, and is due out in 2008.
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