This summer, millions of Americans will be hitting the roads to spend time with friends and family, vacationing in cities and national parks, and many will be bringing their companion animals with them. It turns out that more than 70 percent of us go on vacation or travel with our pets on a regular basis. There are hotels and places you can stay in that are pet-friendly, which make it a bit easier, but you still need to do some basic planning yourself. Should I Bring My Pet? Remember that some pets are not too comfortable with traveling. Before heading out on the road with your four-legged friend, ask yourself the following questions: • Is traveling safe for my pet? This means you have to make the call if your pet is fit enough to travel. • Does my pet like to travel? If your dog runs and hides when you open the car door, consider hiring a pet sitter and leaving him at home. • Will this trip be appropriate for my pet For some destinations, you can tell right away that it's not good for your pets. If, after answering these questions, you feel that the trip is in your pet's best interest, or if it is necessary because you are moving, taking the proper precautions can minimize the risk to your 'best friend'. • Do Your Homework If your dog's only travel experience has been going to the vet, you may want to practice him on the art of traveling in a car, preferable a few weeks before you really take him on long trips. You can start by taking him on short trips first, for example, when you shop for groceries and when you do your errands. When you get home from these short trips, don't forget to give him a treat , then start lengthening the next trips. • Road Safety If you travel with your kids, you always fasten their seatbelts. Do the same for your pets. It's a must for you to restrain your pet as you travel. A variety of restraints are available that offer added mobility and provide an option to the traditional metal travel crate. Think safety harnesses that can attach to any seatbelt, or even safety gates that will allow your pet some mobility in their own space, as you travel. If you do need crates for example, for the smaller animals such as your cats, make sure they are well ventilated. If you roll using one of those big RV's, you do have more freedom and flexibility, but you still need to be aware of the basics. All objects, including food and medicine, should be properly stowed, and all closet and cabinet doors should be securely closed. Use gates to block off space for smaller pets, to minimize injuries as you do sudden stops or turns. Whether you drive an RV or a regular vehicle, make sure you do regular pit stops for your pets. And always remember to put the leash on your pet before you open the vehicle's doors. • Travel Kit Always pack a separate bag for your pet. To avoid an upset stomach, take some of his favorite food, as well as a gallon of water because water characteristics change regionally. Cats can generally travel up to 10 hours without having to use a litterbox, but it never hurts to bring along a disposable litterbox for emergencies or overnight stops. A pet first-aid kit is a must, in case of accidents. And a favorite toy or pillow will give your animal a sense of familiarity. Keep a current health certificate for your pet handy during interstate travel, because many states require one.
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If you plan it right and you bring the basic supplies, you have a good chance of making that trip with your pet a happy experience.
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