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'Morgan' and 'Barra'
- O'Crowley
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Traveling with your pet can be a rewarding experience. You don't have to leave your best friend behind, kenneled in strange surroundings, while you
vacation. You'll double your enjoyment and increase your personal safety as
well, by bringing your four-footed friend along. If your pet is a great
companion at home, he can be an even better companion on the road. |
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Naturally, the younger they are on their first road trip, the more quickly they will adapt to traveling with you. Of course, every pet is different. It
might be best to plan a few short trips before setting out on a lengthy
voyage. Some pets are prone to carsickness, and some allow their nervousness to overwhelm them, making their trip a trauma instead of fun. Your
veterinarian can prescribe something to make their travels less stressful
and sometimes a small piece of candy (remember NEVER any chocolate) or a
bit of honey given just before leaving home can soothe their tummies as
well. It's always best to wait a couple hours after your pet's last meal
before starting your trip. |
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How often should you stop to let your dog walk? Unless you're traveling with a very young puppy, your dog shouldn't have to exercise or use the bathroom
any more often than you do. Be sure to always walk your dog on lead. Since
your pet will be in unfamiliar territory, if he runs away, it will be less
likely that he could find his way home, or that you could find him. You will
probably be in high traffic areas too, which are unsafe at all times for
unleashed pets.
Remember to pack enough of his regular food to last through the entire trip,
or make certain that he is used to a food that is readily available at most
pet stores along your route.
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"Walking My
Baby" - Roth
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Pups with frozen water bottle - Land
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It's usually a good idea to take along water
from home, as strange water can easily upset your pet's stomach too. A few
days before your trip, fill a few plastic milk jug or soda bottles with
water and freeze. This will not only help keep the food in your
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cooler or
ice chest cold without the usual mess of melting ice, but as the ice in the
bottles thaw, you have nice cool water for your pet (and you) to drink. In
really hot weather, your pets will appreciate a nice icy bottle to wrap
around as they literally "chill out." |
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Call ahead to make motel or campground reservations at places that will
accept pets. Be responsible while staying at these accommodating vacation spots
to ensure that those who follow you will also be accepted as
readily. Always clean up after your pet's potty walks. If you don't have
room to pack in your regular pooper-scoopers, don't forget to take along a
box of plastic baggies for quick pickup and easy disposal of feces.
Never allow your pet to sleep on the motel's comforter and/or sheets. Bring
a sheet from home to toss over the bed if your pet is used to sleeping with
you.
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"On The
Road" - Cook
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Feed your pet in the bathroom, so spills can be easily cleaned up. Don't leave your pet unattended in the room. Take along his crate and leave
him inside it if you have to leave the room. Always keep your pet on a leash
on motel/campground property.
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"Don't Forget My Favorite Toy!" Owczarzak
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When packing your pet's "luggage" it's always a good idea to take along a
few extra old towels and a roll or two of paper towels for emergencies. You
should also pack his food and water bowls, his favorite bed/blanket, a few
of his favorite toys and his collar/leash. It might also be a good idea to
take along a bottle of flea spray, since your pet will be walking in pet
walks where he may pick up some unwanted pests
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Most importantly, plan on having fun
with your pet. Look at this as an
adventure, a glorious excursion with your best friend, not as a
chore.
Have a safe and happy trip!
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