Traveling by Automobile with the Family Pet
Tips on traveling by car on your
next business trip or vacation.
You know they want to go along, so why not take them?
Before You Go
Make sure your pet is healthy. Check with your veterinarian
and renew any shots that are due. Also, give your pet a treatment
of flea and tick medication. There may be parasites where you
are headed that are different from where you live. Some parts
of the country, especially wooded areas, may be infested with
fleas and ticks.
Check your pet's supplies. Pack all of the necessary items
in one small bag and keep it where you can get to it.
- leash and collar
- name tag (with your cell phone number on it)
- picture of your pet (in case you should be separated)
- bottled water and a portable water dish
- supply of pet food, dish, and spoon
- dog treats (all good pets deserve a treat now and then)
- brush
- shampoo
- toys (save a special chew bone for the trip)
- medication (including eye and ear drops, ear powder, tweezers
for removing burrs, and any pills or vitamins your pet may
be taking)
- pet restraint device for riding in the car (pets need
to be "buckled up for safety")
- An old sheet or two for covering up hotel furniture that
your pet may jump up on
- plastic bags for picking up after your pet
Grooming your pet including bathing, combing and nail trim before
the trip will make your pet more comfortable and presentable.
Feed your pet several hours before you depart and then take
them for a long walk before you start your trip.
Getting the Car Ready
Create a place where your pet can ride safely and still see
out the window. Locate your pet where you can touch them to
reassure them that you are with them. Having your pet sit in
your lap is not a good idea. They will also need access to their
water.
A favorite blanket or pet bed would be helpful to take so
they feel "at home."
Don't forget the restraint device as you don't want them
flying through the windshield if you have to stop suddenly.
If you cat is traveling with you, make a place for the kitty
litter. Behind the front seat will do well in some cars. First
put down a piece of plastic (a trash bag will do the trick.)
Pack their carrier and/or crate as these will come in handy.
Many hotels will not allow pets in rooms unattended unless
they are crated.
Traveling Down the Highway
Chances are your pet will sleep ninety percent of the time when
they are not looking out the window or getting some attention
from you.
Make sure your air conditioning is working properly and that
you use it while driving. Don't roll down the windows and
let your dog hang its head out of the window, and never have
your pet in the back of a truck.
You need to stop every 2-3 hours to let your pet stretch
his legs. Always keep your pet on a leash while in public
and respect the rights of other travelers. They might not
care for pets as much as you do.
NEVER LEAVE THEM UNATTENDED IN THE CAR!
Modern automobiles are virtually air tight and a pet left alone
in a car is at risk of not getting enough air, or suffering
from heat exposure. Even though the air temperature is only
70 degrees, a car in the sun will get hot very quickly. If you
must leave your pet in the car, roll down the windows enough
for adequate ventilation without allowing the pet to jump out.
Overnight in a Motel
Hopefully you checked the PetTravel website and booked a pet
friendly hotel or motel online. If the hotel or motel charges
a pet fee, pay it. Don't try to hide your pet or smuggle them
into your room.
Most accommodations ask that you do not leave the pet alone
in the room for obvious reasons. You may have to order "take
out" or room service. Ask at the desk if there are any restaurants
with outside dining nearby and check with them to see if pets
are welcome on their patio.
Be courteous to other guests in the hotel and keep your pet
leashed, quiet, and well behaved while you are there. Walk
your pet in designated areas and be sure to clean up after
them.
You Have Arrived at Your Destination
Take your pet around their new home, and show them where you
have placed their food, water, and bedding. Introduce your pet
to the neighbors, and ask if there are parks nearby where your
pet can exercise. Take them for a walk so they can explore the
smells of the neighborhood. Most of all, enjoy your vacation
with your best friend. You both will be glad you took eachother!
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