Traveling With Rover

 Are you planning a family vacation? Does that mean that your dog will be traveling with you?
Does your dog need training to stop bad behavior problems before your trip?
Many of us simply will not travel if we can't take our dogs along, too. There are a few things that you need to consider if you are planning on taking an extensive trip.These tips can also apply to traveling with cats.

 Visit The Vet

 You will need to get your traveling companion a checkup, just to make sure that there are no issues affecting yout travel plans. You will certainly want a copy of  your pets medical history, just in case you have an emergency while on your vacation. Your vet will be happy to provide copies for you. This will make it so much easier in case you have to visit a vet in a different city or state. And, of course, if you are planning overseas travel, you will need up to date vaccination records to provide the airlines, at least a month before your departure.

Feeding

  Don’t feed your pet and then immediately go out the door and hit the road. Some pets may have a problem with motion sickness, so give them time to let their food digest. Otherwise, you may see it again! Also, the excitement of packing and going may be upsetting to their stomachs.

Packing

  Be sure to pack the basics for your Furbaby. Items that have their scent on them, that they are familiar with, like their bedding and toys.  Always have a leash.  Also, pack water bottles with water from home. Sometimes, foreign water may cause digestive upsets for your pets.

Make Pit Stops Often

  Stopping for a rest every hour or two is good for the driver, as well as your pet. Your dog  will enjoy a chance to get out of the car to stretch his legs. Always offer a bowl of water. If the weather is hot, keep the air conditioning on, but NEVER leave your pet in a car unattended, even with the air conditioning on. Remember, your pet is wearing a fur coat. Fur in the summer can be mighty warm! Your dog might enjoy licking on ice cubes in hot weather.

Safety  

  Cats should always be transported in a carrier for their safety. You can get a pet safety harness, that works like a seat belt for your dog. But, if you choose to let your dog sit wherever he chooses and not be restrained, make sure that you do not let him poke his head out the car window. This is harmful to their eyes. And NEVER, EVER let your dog ride in the back of a pickup truck. You see this alot, but it’s very dangerous for the dog and other drivers.

I.D. Tags  

  Please be sure to have the proper I.D. tags on your pets collar. Just in case you and your pet become separated. Proper I.D. could prevent a nightmare experience for you. You may also consider having your pet micro chipped. But, the best thing to do of all, is keep close watch over your pets.

Overnight Stays

  Make sure that if you have overnight accomodations at a motel or hotel, that they allow pets. Don’t assume and do not try to sneek your pet in. Some lodges charge extra for pets and many have specific rooms set aside for travelers with pets. You can easily do a search for listings of dog friendly hotels, motels or campgrounds that meet your needs. There are many and this is the easiest way to plan a trip.

 Traveling with your pets can be fun, especially if you don’t want to kennel them. Think of all the cute pictures you can take. Your vacation can be fun for everyone involved if you just use a little common sense. You can all come home from a great trip, with great memories, for you and your Furbabies, too!