Every year millions of families go on vacation, and that often means taking the family pet along.
Traveling with a pet has its own set of challenges and obstacles, but proper planning can alleviate most of the headaches and make the trip enjoyable for everyone, including Fido or Fifi.
There are 7 rules I always follow when I take my buddy Max, a 2 year old Australian Shepherd, on trips with me.
He does very well traveling and I think he enjoys it as much as we humans do.
Rule #1 - Make sure you have a collar and leash on your pet at all times.
Animals can become excited or nervous in new situations or environments and can react unexpectedly.
Even the most calm and well behaved pet can suddenly decide to dart across a busy road or jump on the kindly old man at the next gas pump.
Constant control of your pet will ensure safety for them and everyone else.
Rule #2 - Always carry water, a dish and waste baggies no matter if you are driving or flying.
Make sure to offer water to your animal frequently and make sure they have the opportunity to relieve themselves as well.
If you're driving, most rest stops have special areas for your pet.
Oh, and make sure to pick up after them when they are done.
Rule #3 - Never leave your pet in the car in extreme temperatures! I cannot stress this one enough.
This is challenging when traveling in the summer especially.
Heat can rise rapidly in an enclosed vehicle and pets can suffer heat related illness from being in a closed car for as little as 30 minutes.
If you must stop somewhere and leave your pet in the car, follow a few simple guidelines.
Make sure to park in the shade, leave all windows open at least 6 inches to allow circulation and use shade visors on windows to block sunlight.
Never leave your pet in the car longer than 30 minutes, even with the above precautions.
When you return, make sure to give your pet water and allow him cool off under a tree or in some shade.
Rule #4 - Take chew bones or toys.
If your dog is used to his chew bones or toys, make sure to take them with you.
He might decide your shoe looks pretty good if he doesn't have his own bones to chew on.
Rule #5 - Don't forget exercise! This is so important, especially for high energy dogs.
They need to have an outlet for their energy after being in a car for a long time, so you need to make sure they have an opportunity to burn off steam and play.
Take a long rope to tie on their collar to allow them to run in a controlled manner at rest stops or at your destination.
Rule #6 - Treats and rewards for good behavior.
When traveling, it's a great time to remind your pet how to behave correctly around strangers and in different environments.
Take treats along and work with him on his leash.
You'll be pleased at how well he behaves when he gets treats! Rule #7 - Take a kennel for flying and overnight stays.
If you are flying it will be required, but you'll also want one in case you need to leave your pet in a hotel room or at a friends' house.
The most well behaved animal can suddenly decide to do costly damage if left alone in a strange place.
They don't understand that you plan to come back, so they may try to escape or just be destructive.
This could cost you in damages and them in injuries.
Make sure they have a safe place that they are familiar with to reassure them and protect them.
If you can't, or don't want to board your pet when you travel, following these few simple rules will help you and your pet have an enjoyable trip.