Top 10 Tuesday: Travel Tips!

It’s that time of year again: summer holiday! Whether it’s a trip to the beach or to the country side, why not enjoy the holiday with the whole family? Check out our top 10 tips for traveling with your animal companion:

1.      Schedule a vet visit.
Before the big trip, make sure that Princess or Rover is in top form by paying a visit to the local veterinarian.

2.   Say ‘No!’ to kennels!
If you can’t take your furry friends with you, consider leaving your animals at home in the care of a responsible friend or sitter instead of boarding them in a kennel. Letting your animal companions stay at home will make them feel safer and let them stay near familiar things in your absence.

3.   Tag ’em up.
Plan for emergencies, and make sure that your animal companion is wearing a sturdy collar with a tag featuring his or her name and address and your contact information.

4.   Be safe and secure.
Cats can turn into escape artists on the road, so confine them to sturdy, well-ventilated carriers big enough for them to stand up and turn around in comfortably.

5.   Regular exercise is important.
Stopping regularly at rest stops will ensure that your furry friend isn’t restless on the road. Once you reach your destination, be sure to keep to Fido’s regular walking schedule.

6.   Keep ’em closed.
If your cat or dog is unrestrained, never open a car window or door. Countless dogs and cats have been lost at tollbooths and rest stops this way!

7.   Dogs die in hot cars!
Never leave an animal unattended in a parked car. Dogs can only perspire through their foot pads and cool themselves by panting, so in hot weather, even with the windows cracked, a dog can quickly suffer brain damage or death.

8.   Beat those carsick woes.
Don’t feed dogs and cats within an hour of departure, but carry water for rest stops. No‑spill travel bowls are available in many animal supply stores and catalogs.

9.   Obey the law.
Respect all leash laws when walking in public places, and be sure to clean up your animal companion’s mess.

10. Plan accordingly.
Be sure to plan ahead and make sure that your companion animal won’t be left out in the cold—check to see if your hotel or lodging will accept your furry friend!

Make the most of your holiday and have fun! Got a funny story to share about you and your furry friend on the road? Leave a comment below!

Posted by Rochelle Regodon