How To Travel With Your Dog
Remember your very first experience taking a trip when you were young?
Some may recall feelings of uncertainty, fear of the unknown, or even worse, a total disaster. Some may remember the thrill of experiencing a big world and loving all the new sights and sounds. Either way, we need to prepare you and your pets for traveling.
First prepare a written list of all supplies needed- Make sure you include a first aid kit for you and your dog. Consult your veterinarian for some additional supplies they may have available for you to include in your first aid kit. If your dog is on medication, make sure you take extra.
Don't forget to bring a grooming kit- In addition to regular bathing supplies include dry foaming shampoo for touch ups. There may not be time for a full bath so the foaming dry shampoo is a real lifesaver. Bring some old towels to use for this purpose, as well as plenty of paper towels and garbage bags. You will need a rake comb and tick tweezers to remove unwanted pests along the dusty trail. Simple Green is a must for cleaning everything from carpet to crates. Disposable plastic gloves are great for hygiene.
Food and water- Bring plenty of food just in case you stay longer than anticipated./P>
** Remember, bottled water is important for the dogs as they too can get parasites from un-purified water. Bring extra water bowls and food bowls.
Toys are essential- Dogs, like children, can become bored traveling long distances, so bring along chew toys like nylon bones (rawhides can be dangerous), and other favorite toys. Your dog will be much happier if you give them something to do.
Collars and leashes- Take more than one collar and leash in case one should break or get lost. Collars and leashes are easily misplaced, broken or left out of reach when you need one the most.
Know where you are going- Plot out your route on a map and do some advanced research for emergency veterinarians and animal clinics along the route in case you have a real medical emergency. Have their numbers and addresses handy at all times.
Your crate is your best friend- Bring plenty of towels and old blankets that you can align the crate with. Have extra so the crate is always clean.
Check out all motel/hotel or camping sites in advance for pet accommodations- Make sure your dog is allowed to stay on their premises, and have them confirm via fax or email with a copy of their charges and policies.
If you are traveling interstate, a health certificate with your rabies information maybe required so check with your veterinarian or the airline you are traveling with. If you are traveling via the airlines, check to see if you will need a "Letter of Acclimation". If you are going to be traveling for an extended period of time, ask your veterinarian to provide you with an additional health certificate for your return journey. Airlines will only accept a health certificate for ten days from the date is was originally signed by your veterinarian.
When you are traveling for more than 5 hours at a stretch by car, be sure to stop and walk, water, and feed your dog. Rest stops are not the best places to give your dog a break. Other pet owners have already been there with their dogs, so cleanliness is probably not the best. Instead, take them to an area off the main road were animal waste is less likely.
Another word about your crate- Be sure to allow plenty of space for your dog to stand up and completely turn around (USDA and IATA regulations). It is a must to allow the dog plenty of room to stretch. This helps them to be ale to cope with the stress of being boxed in for long periods of time. Don't forget to allow ample height space as well.
Traveling can be great fun with your dog as long as you plan ahead!