On The Road With Your Pet

Going on vacation? Your pet can be a great travel companion. You will need to do some planning ahead to make it a safe journey for you and your furry friend.

Buckle up for safety is the first step for everyone in your car including your animal companion. Smaller dogs and cats are often more comfortable in pet carriers (crates), which can be purchased in various sizes at most pet stores. Carriers provide security and can easily be secured to the seat belt or a specially designed carrier restraint. Also available are a variety of pet restraints used without carriers: harnesses, seat belt attachments, pet car seats, vehicle barriers and truck restraint systems. Choose what fits best with your car design and offers the most protection and comfort for your best friend.

If car travel is new for your companion, take him or her for a few short rides to the park or around town before the vacation. This will help your dog or cat become comfortable with auto travel. These practice runs will help you to determine if you will be traveling with a road warrior or a white-knuckle flyer.

Food, Water and Exercise: If your pet isn’t accustomed to car travel, do not feed him for 6 – 7 hours before the ride. Stick with your regular diet, giving his main meal at the end of the day’s road trip. Dry food is more convenient, if your pet is used to it. Stop every two hours to provide water and exercise. If it is hot, try “Water-icicles” - freeze small bowls of water and let your pet lick on the ice as it thaws.

Certification and Identification: Carry proof your dog or cat is current on all vaccinations, including rabies. If traveling over state lines, you will need a health certificate from your veterinarian issued within 10 days of traveling. Make sure your dog or cat has current ID tags with a telephone number where you can be reached - maybe your cell number - secured to his collar. Also carry a photo of your pet to help others identify the animal if he gets lost.

Other Helpful Hints:

- Pack your pet’s leash (even for cats), food and water bowls, favorite toys, a piece of bedding from home and any medication your furry family member requires.

- Cats will need a litter box in their carrier. Use only a small amount of litter – she just needs to get the scratching sensation.

- NEVER let your pet’s head extend outside the car window. Particles of dirt can penetrate the eyes, ears and nose, causing injury or infections. Excess cold air in the lungs can also cause illness.

- Be sure to always park your car in a shaded area to keep the car cool. NEVER leave your pet alone inside a car, even for a few minutes. Find restaurants with drive-through windows or bring someone with you on the trip to take meal shifts so your furry family member can stay in your air-conditioned car.

Plan ahead where to stop and where to stay. Information on pet-friendly establishments can easily be found in bookstores or online at sites like www.petswelcome.com. Getting your dog or cat ready for travel will be rewarded with many memorable adventures and fun days on the road together.

 
Founded in 1965, Pets In Need receives no federal, state or local government support.

Published in the San Mateo County Times, March 9, 2002