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Choose the type of vacation your pet would choose for himself.
Camping or a pet-friendly resort with a dog park vs. a whirlwind
tour of European countries. Are walking trails accessible so your
dog can romp freely? Is there a lake nearby where she can cool
off? When making reservations, ask if a “pet” deposit is required
at the lodging. If so, it may not be pet-friendly.
Where will the animal go when the family is at the theme park
for the day? Call ahead to your destination and ask for a recommendation
of a pet sitter. Also, will fireworks be going off while your
dog is in a strange environment by herself?
If flying, talk to the airline about its pet policy before you
make reservations. Make sure you know where to pick your pet up
when you land if he winds up in cargo vs. being carried on (the
latter being preferable). What countries impose quarantine or
other restrictions that could delay your trip? Your airline may
require a clean bill of health from your veterinarian before your
departure date.
On car trips, make sure your vacation vehicle can accommodate
an animal cage or in-car gate. Is the area large enough for your
pet to turn around in? Your pet needs ventilation and air conditioning
as much as the human travelers. While travelling, make frequent
stops to allow for exercise, food and water. Make sure your pet
is on a leash at all times when outside.
Organization is easiest if your pet has his own luggage.
First into Poochie's suitcase goes his paperwork. Bring along
a letter from your vet stating his current state of health and
proof of vaccinations. Having the vet's telephone number with
you can be useful as well. A phone call home is always cheaper
than a visit to an unknown vet.
If Poochie has not been micro-chipped, now would be the ideal
time.
Try to give your dog a "home away from home" feel to
his vacation.
Pack Poochie's security blanket, his rubber duckie, stuffed bear,
his crate (if he uses one) and his favorite bones or cookies.
Along with a supply of his regular food, a can opener, disposable
spoons and bowls, bring a gallon or so of water from home. Dogs
with sensitive stomachs might become ill from different water
additives. When you near the end of your home supply of water,
start mixing it with the water at your vacation spot.
Keep in mind the next dog and his family who want to be welcomed
at the pet-friendly motel after you leave. Include old towels
in Fido's suitcase for wiping muddy feet after a romp in the rain
and before he retires to your rented room. Worn bed sheets from
home add decorative and indispensable touches to motel rooms,
one over the bed, another on the couch.
Once Poochie's suitcase is packed, organize your vehicle so that
your dog is contented and contained.
If Poochie is crate-trained, you're home free. He can travel
in style in his crate in the back seat. Otherwise, if you have
a station wagon or hatchback, consider installing a dog guard
across the back of the car. You can even invest in a padded doggie
seat-belt harness.
The bottom line is you're the driver and Poochie is the passenger.
You don't want him jumping from the back to front seat just as
you pull out on the highway.
Check out web sites for accommodations where you and your canine
companion will be welcomed.
Remember to ask if there's a ground-floor room available that
opens directly outdoors to facilitate late night trips to the
potty, and keep in mind baggies for easy pick up.
If you will be out-of doors with your pet for extended periods,
here are a few more facts to be aware of:
Mosquitos and flies will bite your dog, but not use insect spray
on dogs because the animals can lick it off and ingest it. There
are products made specifically for pets, such as insect repellents
and flea collars, available to help prevent bug bites.
Remember that dogs have padded feet, and the sidewalk can be
too hot for them. It's a good idea to walk them on grass if possible,
and preferably in the early morning or evening.
Pets may require sunscreen on their noses and ear tips. Pets
with light-colored noses or light-colored fur on their ears are
particularly vulnerable to sunburn and skin cancer.
Do not to leave pets waiting in cars, and make sure that if a
pet is left outside during warm weather, it has access to shade
and water.
Enjoy the summer and your companion animal!
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