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Travel Tips
Travelling By Car
When travelling by car, there are two critical issues to
consider: overheating and injury. Particularly in warmer weather,
special care must be taken so that your pet's body temperature does
not rise to a level that can impair proper functioning. Most animals
disperse heat through their feet and by panting, so pay special
attention to the temperature within the vehicle. Heated upholstery
can be a problem as it prevents your pet's system from cooling down.
Acclimatize your pet to your vehicle. Always keep a car window open
so the pet has plenty of air. Do not leave your pet in a vehicle
alone; if necessary, affix sunshades to the interior of windows and
tailgate surrounding your pet. If the vehicle is air conditioned,
check for functionality before traveling. If your pet has a
favourite pillow that he or she likes to travel with, cover it with
a zipper cover and enclose a plastic covered ice pack inside to keep
cool. If convenient, travel during early morning or early evening
when temperatures are a bit cooler.
To prevent injury, restrain your pet using a pet seat belt or
secured carrier. Loose animals in a moving vehicle present a hazard
both to the driver and to other motorists. You do not want your pet
to be underneath your feet while driving.
Never allow the pet to ride unrestrained in the back of a truck or
to stick its head out the window of a moving vehicle. Particles of
dirt can lodge in eyes, ears and nose causing infection, direct
damage, etc. Never give your pet sedatives or tranquilizers unless
under the direction of a licensed veterinarian This can interfere
with your pet's ability to maintain proper balance, and may prevent
him from protecting itself from unwanted injury or falls. (Air
travel is especially dangerous while under the influence of certain
medications, as exposure to increased altitude can exacerbate or
even initiate respiratory and cardiovascular problems.)
Take frequent breaks but keep your pet leashed whenever possible.
Never allow your pet to wear a leash while in a crate as it could
become dangerously tangled. However, it is a good idea to attach the
leash before you get your pet out of the vehicle, as this is the
best way to prevent runaway pets. Nothing can ruin a vacation like
losing a pet.
Before traveling with your pet ensure that it is well protected
against loss. Put systems in place in case your pet goes missing in
unfamiliar surroundings, and ensure that your pet has a collar with
up-to-date contact information.
Pack a simple first aid kit containing antiseptic cream,
anti-diarrhea medication (speak to your veterinarian for
recommendation on a suitable product), gauze and assorted bandages.
A contact list should also be included with a national poison
control line and standard identification information, as well as a
photo of your pet, up to date immunization records, etc.
Feed your pet a light meal a few hours prior to departure and a
drink of water before embarking on your road trip. Pets should be
provided with an ample supply of water with the water dish securely
fastened down so it does not move around and injure the animal. A
filled water dish, which has been placed in the freezer, is ideal as
the water does not slosh around and stays fresh during the trip.
Maintain your pet's regular feeding schedule and supply the main
meal when you reach your destination or at the end of the day. Dry
food is safest for road trips but if your pet eats only canned food,
dispose any leftovers immediately after the meal, particularly in
warmer weather. Take along at least two gallons of water in case
other water sources do not agree with your pet while travelling.
Give small portions and stop at least every two hours for exercise.
Please ensure your pet has learned basic commands before introducing
it to unfamiliar areas. This is necessary for the safety of your
pet, other pets and the general public.
Avoid leaving animals in a parked car. If absolutely necessary, park
in a shaded area, open windows wide enough to provide cross
ventilation and lock all doors. Again, this is not recommended but
if you have to do it keep the time away from your pet to an absolute
minimum. Be aware of weather conditions and temperatures in both
cold and warm environments. |
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