Pets are increasingly viewed as family members and therefore, leaving them out when planning a vacation is unthinkable for some. Many hotels and resorts are pet friendly, although they may require additional deposits to accommodate furry guests. There are some great web sites that list pet friendly lodging such as Petswelcome and Dogfriendly.
Transporting Pets
When driving, be sure to secure pets in the back seat of the vehicle. Special restraints can be purchased to act as seat belts for animals. It is best to keep cats in a carrier restrained by a seat belt. It is not advised that any pet ride in the front seat, even restrained. In an accident, they could easily be seriously injured or killed.
For long trips, stop every few hours so that the animal can go to the bathroom and stretch a bit. Always keep pets leashed. Cats not leash and halter trained should stay in the car and be let out of the carrier to go to the bathroom. Disposable litter pans on floorboards are perfect for this. Slip the litter pan into a trash bag when not in use to prevent litter from spilling onto the floor of the car. Do not ever leave an animal in a car when temperatures are over 70 degrees outdoors. Brain damage and death can occur quickly! Leaving windows down is not an option!
If traveling by means other than vehicle, call ahead and find out what is allowed and required by an airline, train, bus, or boat service. Some may not allow pets to accompany passengers.
Use the following checklist as a guide for items needed for pets while traveling:
What to Bring for Pets
- Pet food and distilled water
- Sturdy carrier with good ventilation
- Food and water bowls
- Pet First Aid Kit (including pet's medications)
- A leash and an extra collar
- Extra towels or blankets to cover furnishings
- Pet bedding
- Treats and toys
- Brush or comb
- Waste removal bags
- Pet shampoo or wipes
- Stain remover
- Vaccine records and a current photo of your pet
- Your vet's phone number
- For cats: disposable litter pans, litter and a scratching post
- For dogs: pooper scooper
Leaving Pets at Home
If it is not possible to take pets on vacation, be sure to hire a professional pet sitter or make arrangements to board animals in a reputable facility. When using a new facility, visit ahead of time and ask questions about exercise and schedules. Be sure to make facility workers aware of any special needs the pet may have. Pet sitters should meet, visit and get to know the pet a week to a few days before needed. It's not a bad idea to check references and find out if they are bonded. Leave vet contact information in case of emergency and call every few days to see how things are going.
 |
