While there’s nothing like packing up the family for a long-anticipated vacation, it’s just not the same if you can’t take your beloved pet along. Here are some tips for taking your furry friend with you, which will help make for a smooth and comfortable trip.
1. Keep your pets safe in a well ventilated crate. Make sure it’s large enough for your pet to stand, sit, lie down, and turn around in.
2. Get your pet accustomed to the car. If taking a long trip, take your pet on a few short drives beforehand so he or she can get used to the car.
3. Make sure to feed your pet a few hours before a long trip to avoid stomach upset and don’t ever feed him or her in a moving vehicle, even if it is a long trip.
4. Never leave your pet in the car alone for a long period of time. Even with the windows open, a car can become extremely hot and cause heat stroke.
5. Make sure your pet is easily identifiable. Put a microchip in your pet, or make sure your pet’s collar includes your cell phone number, destination phone number, and destination address. This will come in handy if your pet goes missing.
6. Don’t allow your pet to ride with his or her head outside the window. Make sure your pet’s crate is in the back seat and is secured tightly. 7. Make sure you have a travel kit for your pet. This could include a leash, a waste scooper, food, water, bowls, medications, grooming supplies, and whatever else you think your dog or cat will need for the journey.
8. Some states require proof of a rabies vaccination so make sure you bring your pet’s paperwork just in case.
9. Bring your own water. Water from unfamiliar places can cause an upset stomach in a lot of pets.
10. If you travel frequently with your pet, you may want to invest in rubberized floor liners and waterproof seat covers, available at auto product retailers.
Source: ASPCA.org
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