Traveling This Labor Day Weekend? Tips for Taking Your Pet Along

If you’re trying to get in one last blast of summer and you want your beloved pets by your side, there are steps you can take now to prevent howling, yowling, hissing and snarling.

Start with these ideas from veterinarian Dr. Ed Blach of Vet24seven:

1. START WITH SMALL TRIPS

Many pets aren’t used to traveling in the car, and may get anxious about the experience. If your pet is not a frequent rider in your car, start with some small, fun car rides and build up to your longer trip.

2. USE A CRATE

Crates become part of an animal’s comfort zone, like their home, and can make traveling a lot easier and safer, while keeping them stable and secure in the car.

3. GOOD VENTILATION

You may have your air conditioning on up front, but if your animal is in a crate at the rear of your SUV with the sun beaming through the back window, then the temperature there could be a whole lot hotter. Having water in the car is obviously important and many owners choose to bring a collapsible bowl for ease of use.

4. PREPARE FOR MOTION SICKNESS AND STRESS

Just like humans, animals can get motion sickness. There are medications to help with motion sickness and for anxiety, however many owners prefer not to medicate for anxiety. When a pet is sedated while traveling, it can’t moderate its temperature levels and is more susceptible to heat stroke. There are some effective over-the- counter natural and holistic remedies. A dog appeasing pheromone (DAP) can be sprayed on the blanket or collar for calming dogs. There is also one for cats called Feliway.

5. BRING FAMILIARITY

Just like children, animals feel safer and secure with familiar objects, so pack their blanket or favorite toy for familiarity. Also, pack your pet’s usual food. Gastro intestinal problems can arise if they don’t eat their regular food while on a trip.

6. ENSURE MEDICAL RECORDS ARE UP TO DATE

You may be up to date with their shots, but veterinarians can’t issue a health certificate if an animal has fleas. Fleas are considered a contagious disease as the parasite can jump from one animal to another. Plan ahead for flea and tick control.

7. SAFETY FIRST

Having your dog hang out of the window with the wind on his fur or letting it sit on your lap while driving might look cute, but it can be dangerous. Your animal can fall out the window or under the driver’s feet to cause a terrible accident. You should use a crate, harness or seat belts to keep your pet safe.

Great advice. And two more tips from Amica Insurance:

• Never leave pets alone in a parked vehicle.
• Pets should have a microchip for identification, as well as a collar with an imprinted tag that includes your home address, cellphone number and other relevant contact information.

--Image via Amica Insurance