Taking the family pet along on a vacation trip can be a lot of fun.
The kids often enjoy having the dog along to partake in the various vacation activities.
Unfortunately many pet owners begin the trip unprepared for what lies ahead and the dog, the family and the vacation all suffer as a result.
Here are ten things to keep in mind when you are planning a trip with the family dog.
1.
You need to have a crate available on your trip to put the dog in when it can't be roaming about.
Don't make the mistake of using a crate that is too small.
The dog may have to be left in the crate for an extended period of time and should at least be able to get up and move around a little.
2.
A visit to the vet is a good idea before a trip.
If you are planning to travel by plane, some carriers require a certification of good health from a vet.
3.
If the pet is able to travel with you in the cabin of the plane, make arrangements to check I and board the plane as late as possible.
You can often print boarding passes from your computer at home and can ignore the required check in times.
4.
Some people give their pets tranquilizers to keep them calm during travel but this is not a good idea.
The pet is already agitated and these drugs can cause heart and respiratory problems.
Some airlines even require you to affirm that the dog has not been given any drugs before they will allow them to board.
5.
The holidays are the worst time to travel with a pet.
Airports and other places are overcrowded and this adds more unneeded stress to the dog's trip.
6.
Do not risk having your pet stolen by putting his name on their tag.
The response a dog gives when hearing their name could be the proof you need to show ownership of the dog.
7.
If you will be travelling during times of extreme temperatures, consider leaving your pet behind.
Consult your vet if you are unsure whether your pet can handle the trip.
If you must travel with the pet, choose a travel time that minimizes exposure to the extreme temperatures; early or at night to beat the heat and during midday to beat the cold.
8.
If travelling by car with your pet, don't let them stick their head out the window.
At highway speeds, a small piece of debris can easily blind a dog.
Reserve this treat for more leisurely drives around the neighborhood.
9.
Keep in mind that airbags can injure or kill dogs just like children.
If you car is equipped with a passenger side airbag, make the dog ride in the back seat or switch the airbag off.
10.
It's best for your pet to travel on an empty stomach.
Give them only water for a few hours before the trip.
This will help avoid nausea and unwanted bowel movements
The kids often enjoy having the dog along to partake in the various vacation activities.
Unfortunately many pet owners begin the trip unprepared for what lies ahead and the dog, the family and the vacation all suffer as a result.
Here are ten things to keep in mind when you are planning a trip with the family dog.
1.
You need to have a crate available on your trip to put the dog in when it can't be roaming about.
Don't make the mistake of using a crate that is too small.
The dog may have to be left in the crate for an extended period of time and should at least be able to get up and move around a little.
2.
A visit to the vet is a good idea before a trip.
If you are planning to travel by plane, some carriers require a certification of good health from a vet.
3.
If the pet is able to travel with you in the cabin of the plane, make arrangements to check I and board the plane as late as possible.
You can often print boarding passes from your computer at home and can ignore the required check in times.
4.
Some people give their pets tranquilizers to keep them calm during travel but this is not a good idea.
The pet is already agitated and these drugs can cause heart and respiratory problems.
Some airlines even require you to affirm that the dog has not been given any drugs before they will allow them to board.
5.
The holidays are the worst time to travel with a pet.
Airports and other places are overcrowded and this adds more unneeded stress to the dog's trip.
6.
Do not risk having your pet stolen by putting his name on their tag.
The response a dog gives when hearing their name could be the proof you need to show ownership of the dog.
7.
If you will be travelling during times of extreme temperatures, consider leaving your pet behind.
Consult your vet if you are unsure whether your pet can handle the trip.
If you must travel with the pet, choose a travel time that minimizes exposure to the extreme temperatures; early or at night to beat the heat and during midday to beat the cold.
8.
If travelling by car with your pet, don't let them stick their head out the window.
At highway speeds, a small piece of debris can easily blind a dog.
Reserve this treat for more leisurely drives around the neighborhood.
9.
Keep in mind that airbags can injure or kill dogs just like children.
If you car is equipped with a passenger side airbag, make the dog ride in the back seat or switch the airbag off.
10.
It's best for your pet to travel on an empty stomach.
Give them only water for a few hours before the trip.
This will help avoid nausea and unwanted bowel movements
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