DOG TAILS - PETS ON VACATION July 27, 2013 @ 7:02 PM The temperament of your pet as well as the destination and logistics of the trip all require consideration when deciding to take your dog on vacation with you, board the dog in a kennel or hire a dog sitter. If your destination requires air travel, keep in mind that your dog may be required to travel in a cargo hold with no fresh air or ventilation. Some airlines allow pet travel in the cabin but there a restrictions like the time of the year, the size of the dog and the necessity of a proper crate or pet carrier. There is also a cost issue. When vacationing in the car, check ahead for pet friendly lodgings and destination. Stop often for water, exercise and potty breaks. Never allow your dog to ride in the back of an open pick-up truck or unrestrained in the car. Crack the windows for some air but not enough to allow the dog to escape. Use of a crate or pet carrier is a wise decision. Make sure your dog is up to date on vaccinations and carry proof of that. Place ID tags on the collar of your pet or have a micro chip placed in the dog for easier location should your pet run away. If motion sickness is an issue for your dog, practice auto travel by placing the dog in the car and allow him or her to just sit in the car without driving anywhere. Follow this up with backing up and down just in the driveway and gradual short trips down the street or around the block. This procedure will allow thedog to become less sensitive to motion. Do not feed the dog 6 to 8 hours prior to the trip. Ask your veterinarian for possible medications to calm your pet prior to the trip. If you feel your pet should not travel with you, look into kennel boarding or in-home dog sitters. Cost is an issue with either of these choices. Look into the location,activities, cleanliness, availability, vet care on premises and size of the area the dog has to play and sleep in as well as the socialization with other animals when choosing a kennel. In-home dog sitters are available but are fairly costly. This choice will allow your dog to stay in a familiar place with one on one care. It assures sufficient exercise and proper food and is good for a dog that does not get on well with other animals. Be certain to obtain references if this type of care is chosen as the best for your dog. DOG TAIL TIP OF THE DAY: Consider carefully, the proper decision can make or break your vacation.
Posted on: Sat, 27 Jul 2013 23:24:18 +0000
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