SolveYourProblem.com Article Series: Dog Care
Dog Care Tips
Tips
For Traveling With Your Dog
Many people get nervous when they have to
travel with their pets, but traveling with your dog can be
a very rewarding experience for both of you.
If
you are planning a trip by car, the first thing you need
to do is to get your dog used to riding in the car. The best
way to do this is to take short trips in town to places such
as pet stores, the dog park, or other places that are fun for
your dog. He will learn that car trips mean great fun and you
will experience much less of a hassle when traveling longer
distances.
Another thing you need to do is decide how your dog will travel
in the car. If your dog is crate trained, and your vehicle
is large enough, you may want to consider crating him during
car travel. This will help prevent him from roaming around
the car and offer some protection in case of an accident. Bringing
your dog’s crate with you will also help keep your dog safe
and happy once you arrive at your destination. Many people
choose to use other forms of restraint, such as canine seatbelts.
These products usually hook on to a harness as well as your
car’s seatbelt. You can choose which seat to put your dog in.
He will remain restrained in that seat just as you are in yours.
Canine seatbelts offer excellent protection in the event of
an accident. For those of you who prefer to keep your dog loose
in the car, you may want to consider installing a divider of
some sort. There are metal dividers and mesh dividers available
for all budgets. These devices allow for your dog to have some
roaming space in the back of the vehicle while keeping him
from interfering with your driving. Whichever way you prefer
to travel, it’s best to have a plan well in advance of a trip
to get your dog used to the method of restraint you will be
using.
The
next thing to consider is what supplies you will need to
bring with you. Make sure your dog has plenty of water available
to him at all times. You may not be able to find clean, drinkable
water available at rest stops along the way, so it is very
important to have an ample supply of your own. Some dogs will
drink directly from bottles, but if your dog does not, make
sure you have a bowl available for your dog to drink from.
If your dog will be crated, you can purchase a water bottle
that attaches to his crate, just like those used to water small
animals like gerbils. You will also want to make sure that
you have an ample supply of food. Dogs’ digestive systems get
used to their regular food. You do not want to run the risk
of not being able to find his usual food, otherwise you may
be dealing with loose stool or vomiting.
You will also want to make sure that you bring
favorite toys to help keep your dog occupied on the road and when you arrive
at your destination. It’s always a good idea to bring your
veterinary records with you as well. Some places that you may
stay require up to date records proving vaccination history.
If your dog should happen to get sick, you will also need your
records. Some states require health certificates for interstate
travel so it is very important to check with your veterinarian
if you will need one of these prior to traveling. Having your
dog microchipped prior to travel in case he should lose his
tags is a great way to ensure his safety.
Make sure to take frequent
potty breaks along the way as sometimes
the motion of the car and stress of traveling will make your
dog need to go more often than usual. He will also need to
stretch his legs frequently, just as you will.
If
you will be staying in a hotel during your travels, make
sure in advance that they will allow dogs. There are many resources
on the internet that will help you find dog friendly accommodations.
Some dogs will get stressed out during travel. If this has
been your experience in the past, make sure you talk with your
veterinarian prior to travel. There are medications available
to help calm your dog during events such as long car trips.
By following this advice and the advice of your veterinarian,
you can be assured that your travel experience will be a great
one for both you and your dog. #
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SolveYourProblem.com : 2007
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