Traveling with your pet can be fun and enjoyable. A little preparation goes a long way, however, toward making the trip easier for both of you, and ensuring that your furry friend is safe and happy.
A Healthy Pet Is a Happy Pet
Schedule a visit to the vet prior to your road trip to make sure your pet is up to date on his or her shots and is healthy enough for a road trip. You can also get copies of your pet’s shot records and medical history at this time. In case your pet needs medical care during the trip, you’ll have all your documents on hand. You may also want to download some assistance, such as the Red Cross Pet First Aid app, to help you in case of an emergency.
Take a Test Drive
If your pet hasn’t been in the car for a road trip before, take a few long drives before the actual trip, to make sure he or she is prepared. You can watch for issues such as agitation or motion sickness. If these are concerns, the vet may be able to provide sedatives or motion sickness medication.
Secure Your Pet
While your dog may love to explore your vehicle or your cat may not love being inside a carrier, it’s important to make sure pets are safe and either in a secured carrier or a pet harness designed for proper fit.
Make Your Pet Comfortable
Be aware of the temperature and make sure your pet isn’t too hot or cold. Bring a pet bed or comfortable blanket or cloth for your pet to lay on. You may want to bring an extra one to cover your pet with if the temperature is chilly, too.
Take Frequent Breaks
Stopping frequently not only helps break up the monotony of a road trip, but gives your pet a chance to stretch his or her legs, go to the bathroom, and eat and drink. Make sure your pet gets plenty of water so he or she doesn’t get dehydrated.
Planning and Packing
When you make your list of essential items for your trip, make a separate list of items to pack for your pet. In addition to necessities such as food, water, and a leash, don’t forget things such as toys to keep your pet busy, waste bags, treats or snacks, grooming items, and any medications. Make sure your pet wears a collar with identification tags at all times during travel.
Safety on the Road
Don’t let your pet hang his or he head out of the window; doing so can result in injury from flying debris. If you must leave your pet alone in your vehicle, do so only for short periods, and make sure that there is plenty of ventilation, that he or she will not be too hot or cold, and that there are no potential hazardous materials to ingest.
You can have a blast on a road trip with your four-legged friend. By being prepared, however, your road trip will be fun and easy as well as safe for you and your pet.
https://www.flickr.com/photos/drivingthenortheast/7071053033/sizes/l
Image via Flickr by DrivingtheNortheast
Connect with us
