Traveling With Your Dog – What To Know

Summer is here and that means it is time for summer vacation!

If you are planning on taking a vacation out of town with your dog, Clear the Air would like to share some helpful tips to ensuring your dog stays safe and happy on his travels.

First and foremost, it is important to see your vet before you take off to ensure the vet gives your dog a clean bill of health.  Traveling isn’t always easy for your pet and you want to make sure your vacation is as enjoyable for him as it is for you.  Make sure to get a health and vaccination certificate from your vet.

About two hours before you leave, give your pet a light meal.  If you are traveling by plan, it is crucial to make sure your pet has a chance to relieve himself before the journey.  Some dogs feel the need to hold their urine while they are in a tight space, sometimes causing a urinary tract infection.  The last thing you want to have to deal with on your vacation is taking your dog to an emergency vet to alleviate an infection.

If your dog is in a carrying container, make sure it is very well ventilated and plenty of room for the animal to move around.  Make sure there is enough food and water for the trip, especially water!  You might want to get a refillable container of water for longer journeys.  Placing a rug or shirt that smells like you can help your pet settle into his container as well.

If you are taking a road trip with your dog, you can purchase a dog harness which can clip into the seat belt of the car.  If you would rather not use a harness, make sure the dog is in a dog crate.  This is important because you don’t want your dog hurting himself if you brake suddenly or have to make an abrupt move.

Although this may seem like common sense, do not lock your dog in a parked car when the weather is hot, even warm!  Make sure your dog is parked in the shade as well.  Many animals have died because they were locked in the car in the heat.  Avoid this from happening and either take your dog with you or leave the car running with the air on.

Just like you have to make pit stops, so does your dog.  Make sure to take him out of the car regularly to relieve himself.

Happy travels!  Your dog will be delighted to have the opportunity to join you on your vacation as long as you make sure to remember his needs as well!