Sunday, June 5, 2011

Household Hints by Rosemary ~ Cat and Dog Trips

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Vacations are great, the whole family is in on the fun and in many cases so are the family pets. Whether it's a day trip or a week away in the car, when you are travelling with animals just like children you must be prepared. Keep in mind their comfort and needs as well as requirements for overnight stays, border crossings and animal restrictions. If you're doing a beach holiday check on regulations as many will not allow dogs or they are confined to one area. Call ahead to avoid nasty surprises.

Always carry the animal's health records, have all shots up to date, if available their pedigree papers, water and food bowls and stress relieving items such as their blanket or familiar toys. When booking a facility be sure they are animal friendly. Find out if there are insects in the area that may compromise the health of your pet, such as deer ticks, then discuss protection with your veterinarian.

Hopefully your pet is accustomed to car drives, if not prepare them in advance by taking short drives at moderate speeds. Cats should be kept in a carrier secured with a seat belt, as well as small to medium sized dogs unless they are very comfortable in a car and calm during the trip. However a carrier lends protection to the animal in the event of an accident and would be a preferred method of travel.

If the animal does get stressed, or if your dog is barking at other passing vehicles, cover the carrier or the window with a light blanket. Make plenty of stops for watering and exercise.

Although it's fun to watch a dog stick his head out the window and face into the wind this habit can cause harm, such as eye damage. A window should be open for air circulation, but not enough that the dog can get his whole head out, just sufficient that he can sniff the breeze and have fresh air.

If your pet suffers car sickness, then it's best to leave them at a care facility or at home with a pet sitter where they would be more comfortable. But, if you must take them with you, before leaving take them out to exercise, feed them a small meal and keep food and water during the trip to a minimum.

If you pet is not comfortable with strangers, for their own protection as well as other people and animals, leash them and have them under your control at all times. This is particularly important if you are in an area far from home, or with lots of crowds. If you must leash a cat, use a body harness. Someone asked about taking an animal along for a fireworks display and I can't think of anything that would upset an animal more than huge bangs in the sky and the smell of fire; LEAVE THEM HOME or don't attend the event.

Be aware of the temperature and protect the animal appropriately, use shades on windows so that they aren't in direct sun or heat in the summer and maintain a moderate heat in the winter.

In all cases, common sense should be used when travelling, then the vacation will be pleasurable for everyone, including the family pet.


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