Let's be honest.
Is your pet "roadworthy"? Is she too young, old, sick, or does
she like to travel? Not all pets do. If you have a "stay at
home", she will be much happier (and so will you!) leaving her
there or with a reliable pet sitter or kennel. (We also have
tips and links about reliable pet sitters and kennels!)
Is you pet people
friendly, or a "barker"?
Always consider
those you will be around at your destination. Remember, you
want the trip to be enjoyable for you as well as your pet. If
he isn't people friendly, it's probably better to leave him
at home.
Has you pet been
on trips before?
If not, you should
take her on a short overnight or weekend trip first, before
venturing out on a long vacation. You both will appreciate it!
Is this the type
of trip to take your pet? Will you have enough time to spend with
your pet, along the way and at your destination? Is the destination
"pet friendly"?
Not all destinations
or types of vacations are appropriate for pets, if you plan
on spending most of you time in public places, such as museums,
lecture halls, or on the slopes, it's probably better to leave
him at home. Or make arrangements with your hotel for pet sitting.
If driving, will
you have time to stop every couple of hours to "air" your pet?
If not , it's
probably better to leave him at home.
Will you want to
leave you pet in the room?
Inquire at your
lodging if they allow pets to stay in the room while you are
"out and about", some don't. You wouldn't want to leave your
pet in the car, especially during the winter or summer.
How about those
relatives?
And of course,
if you are visiting relatives or friends, ask if they don't
mind a pet visitor. Many people are allergic to certain pets
and some people just aren't pet friendly.
Make sure that
all vaccinations are up to date and get current health and rabies
certificates just prior to your departure. Airlines require these
certificates and they are just good to have along whenever you
travel with your pet, "just in case".
Your veterinarian
may also have a referral for another vet at your destination.
Great to have in an emergency!
Ask about proper
medical treatment for your pet if it becomes carsick or restless
during the trip.
When traveling
by car, no matter how far, ALWAYS use a dog "seatbelt" or pet
carrier,
and that they are secured to the back seat with a seatbelt. Did
you know that in a 30-mph. collision, occupants of the vehicle
can exert a force 20 times that of their body weight! (That
includes your pets!)
Also, a loose pet
in a car can jump out if someone opens the door, quicker than
you can grab her!
When traveling
by public transportation, make sure you have an approved pet carrier,
one that your pet can standup, turn around and lie down in comfortably.
Also, try to travel during off-hours, when things are not as hectic
or crowded, so you and the airline will have more time to spend
with your pet so it won't be as nervous.
Make sure your
pet is used to the carrier prior to the trip.
Put your pet's
name and your name, address and phone numbers, for both your home
and destination on the outside of the pet carrier. Legible please!
Also, include your cell number and an 800 number if you have one,
if not put CALL COLLECT so anyone can reach you in an emergency!
Don't put a leash
in the carrier as your pet could get tangled in it.
Also try to avoid
"stop-over" flights where your pet could be put on the wrong flight.
(He gets a vacation in Hawaii, while you get frantic in Florida!)
Identification
Tag with name, address and emergency phone number.
Photograph and
complete description of your pet, just in case you get separated.
Water - At least
a gallon or two, and start mixing it in equal parts at your destination,
so she can get used to it. Distilled water is even better!
Food - If you utilize
a special brand or a brand that is only available through your
veterinarian, bring enough for the entire trip. If you use canned
food, don't forget the can opener and a spoon!
Portable food and
water bowl set.
Extra leash and
collar.
Toys and chew items.
Treats.
Brush and/or comb.
Lint and hair remover.
Baby wipes or moist
towelettes for clean paws.
Tweezers to remove
foreign objects from paws and fur.
Waste removal bags.
Door
Hanger for Hotel/Motel stays.
Old towels, cleaner,
disinfectant and trash bags in case of accidents.
Some of your pet's
bedding so she will feel at home.
Old blankets and
sheets to cover bedding and furniture at your destination.
A flashlight for
night time walks.
Pet coats and rain
gear for inclement weather.
For cats: a litter
pan, extra liners and newspaper to put under the litter pan.
Don't
feed or water your pet just before starting out.
Dokeep fresh
water available for your pet at all times.
Dostop at regular
intervals to give your pet a drink and a short run.
Don'tlet your pet
loose in a strange place.
Do
always use a harness or carrier while the car is moving.
Doalways use
a leash when walking a dog or cat.
Don'tlet your pet
bother other people.
Do
keep a low profile with your pet on public transportation.
Don'tgive your
pet sedatives or tranquilizers unless prescribed by your veterinarian.
Don't
let your
pet hang his head out of the window of a moving car. Don't let
strangers, especially children, near your pet.
Doclean up after
your pet.
Donotify hotel
management when leaving your pet alone in the room. (Check us
out).
Don'tleave your
pet in the car, especially in extreme climates. In moderate climates,
it is still dangerous. If you have to leave your pet in the car
for a short time, leave at least two windows open slightly to
provide fresh air, but it is not recommended!
Remember, it is dangerous to leave your pet in a hot or cold car,
for even a short period of time!
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