Life Is A Highway: Travel With A Pet Like A Pro
When summer, holiday, or weekend travel plans are in the works, that includes trying to figure out what to do with our four legged friends during vacation. While there is certainly nothing wrong with lining up a pet sitter or kennel for your pet, sometimes bringing our furry companions along for the ride just makes more sense.
Your pet’s health, safety and comfort are among the most important factors to consider before you hit the road. Fortunately, today’s pet-centric society provides plenty of options for those of us who choose to travel with a pet
Things To Consider Before You Travel With A Pet
Whether you’re taking your pet along on a day trip to Casco Bay or planning a longer trek farther from home, take the following into consideration before you begin your adventure:
- Consider your pet’s personality and temperament; is he or she ready for the crowds and chaos that may accompany a vacation?
- Besides making sure all of your accommodations are pet friendly, take some time to research pet friendly activities in the areas you will be staying. Have a plan in place for what you will do with your pet during those times that he or she won’t be able to be with you.
- Assess your vacation plans, and ask yourself if you and your family will have the time necessary to tend to all of your pet’s needs while on the trip.
- Schedule a wellness exam to ensure your pet is healthy enough to travel and that his or her vaccines and parasite preventives are current.
- If you are planning on traveling internationally, you will need a veterinary health certificate. Give us a call well in advance to get started on the process.
Time To Pack!
By bringing the essentials, as well as some of the comforts of home, you can help your pet to feel more comfortable and secure in a new environment:
- Plenty of food and water, and collapsible bowls
- Collar or harness, leash, and ID tags (make sure your cell phone number is on the tag)
- Crate or carrier
- Bedding
- Favorite toys
- Medications (bring extras, just in case)
- Medical records
- Grooming supplies
- Waste bags
Last But Not Least!
Because accidents can happen, even to the most responsible and loving pet owners, we offer you the following reminders:
- Keep your pet’s collar with current ID tags attached at all times. If you haven’t had your pet microchipped yet, or need to update an existing microchip, make sure to do so before you leave.
- Never leave your pet alone in a parked car, even in the shade, even with the windows cracked, even for just a moment. Temperatures in parked cars can quickly climb to dangerous levels, even if the day seems cool.
If you have any questions or concerns regarding travel with a pet, please don’t hesitate to contact us.