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Pet Article
DOGS AND TRAVEL
When you should "car ride" does your dogs ears prick up? Does it's tail wag? To some dogs
it means great fun, but maybe not to all dogs.
As Summer approaches pet owners want to hit the road and visit some of their favorite
relaxing summer places, but do all pet owners pets want to go with them? Taking your pet
to the kennels may not be an option, as some animals find this just as upsetting as being
taken on a car ride.
So how do you go for your day out without being racked with guilt? More and more people
find taking road trips a great way to spend quality time with their human counterparts as
well as animal companions. Throughout most states you will find motels, hotels and camping
grounds that will cater for your pets.
Some dogs can be great travelling companions, they don't ask "are we there yet?", they don't
moan about which radio station you are listening to, but pet owners should remember that some
dogs travel better than others. If your dog is prone to being overprotective or aggressive,
taking them on vacation with you may be less than enjoyable. What if they tried to defend
your hotel room if faced with a stranger? Pet owners should consider their pets before
embarking on any type of cross continent tour, maybe start out by taking shorter mini trips to
get your animal used to travelling around in a car. Always plan well ahead, ensure your dog
is in good health, ensure all vaccinations are up to date and don't forget, if your planning
to cross state lines you may need a health certificate.
Next, be sure to verify that the destination allows pets. Several good books
list pet friendly sleeping spots and eating establishments. Check out the
database on the Web at www.petswelcome.com for more of the same.
If you'll want to shop, visit attractions, or eat out, someone will have to stay
behind with your dog. Don't expect to be able to leave a dog tied up at a campsite
where he can be taunted by strangers or alone in hotel room where he may cry and
bark and disturb other guests. Practicing good dog owner courtesy will keep the door open
for future guests who travel with animals.
Always consider the weather, a hot car can be a dangerous place for a dog, dogs left in hot
cars can suffer heat prostration in a very short time. Many animals have died as a result
of being left in a car on a sunny day. Even if it seems cool outside, the temperature in a
car can exceed 100 degrees in a very short period. It also goes without saying, don't leave
your beloved animal in a car alone, there's no quicker way to spoil a vacation than
losing a pet.
Consider the need to restrain your dog in the car. A sudden stop may send a dog
or cat flying if they are sitting on your lap or sunning in the rear window.
Unrestrained pets may also be quick to escape if someone opens the door. Dog
seatbelt harnesses and cat carriers assure safe travel for pets.
Don't forget that you also need to pack for your dog, which means including his food
(try to bring more than you need just in case!), treats, toys, a dish and being prepared
for doggie accidents with plenty of towels. Also include any medications and medical records,
if pertinent. Have leashes or carriers ready in the event of a roadside emergency or accident.
Don't forget his favorite blankets to sleep on and a jug or two of water.
Tweezers to remove ticks and splinters, flea remedy, a brush, and shampoo will
help you keep your dog clean and welcome wherever you go. Some hotels may require
copies of your dog's vaccination records. And stash a picture of your best friend
in your glove compartment, just in case you get separated somehow.
Common sense will go along way in making sure your trip is enjoyable for all.
Make sure your dog wears identification on his collar with a phone number that
calls a remotely accessible voice mail or mobile phone. Try not to exercise your dog in the
hottest part of the day. You may wear shoes to protect your feet, but for a dog, walking on
a hot pavement can cause painful paws. Always have plenty of water available and provide a
shady place for your dog to rest. Use extra care with younger or older animals.
Once you've experienced the joy of adventuring with your dog, you'll never want to leave
her at home again. Nothing is better than driving into a beautiful sunset, one hand
on the steering wheel and the other scratching your dogs ear. Traveling with your best
friend really can't be beat.
Mark Woodcock
1 Flea Control
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