Traveling with Pets: Keeping It Safe and Fun

Thanks to Alicia Lawrence for sharing these pet travel tips. Alicia has written for Pawsitively Pets before on how to prepare your pet for a new baby. 

Photo via DrivingtheNortheast

The summer travel season is fast approaching and lots of us like to travel with our pets. With so many pet-friendly hotels out there, there’s no reason not to bring our furry friends on the road with us. Keep in mind, however, that safety should always come first when traveling with pets. Whether it’s for a well-deserved vacation or that dreaded trip to the vet, you should always keep safe pet transportation a priority. Although you might be tempted to give your dog or kitty free roam, the last thing you want is for someone to jump on you while driving or scoot under the brake pedal. They sure can be cute, but also deadly.

Keep these safety tips in mind when hitting the road with your pet, and everyone will have an enjoyable trip:

Pack for Your Pet                      

                                                                    

Designate a bag just for your pet, and load it up with necessities as well as some special treats. Here’s what you’ll need:

•        Health records in case of any biting incidents
•        Any medicine your pet needs. Also, bring first-aid items, such as nail clippers and liquid bandages
•        Your pet’s regular food and treats, so their digestive system stays regular
•        Portable water bowls. Stick with water and not food while driving – you don’t want anyone getting sick in the car!
•        Pooper scooper and bags
•        Litter box and litter
•        Leash and collar with your pet’s name and pertinent information
•        Personal items, like beds, blankets and some favorite toys

Keep Your Pet Safe

To keep your pooch from trying to take the wheel, make sure to put up a pet barrier to keep him contained in the rear of the vehicle. Spread out some mats or liners to keep your vehicle’s carpets clean. Also, consider using a harness or restraint on large dogs to keep them safe in case of a car accident. You can also keep your dog in a crate. Make sure it is cushioned and properly restrained.

Photo via Michael Cornelius

Cats should be kept in a kitty carrier for their safety, as well as yours. Many felines are not fond of riding in cars. The last thing you want is a hissy fit on the road. Plus, your kitty could easily run off whenever a door is opened. Make sure the carrier is placed in the back seat and is fastened securely with a seat belt.

On the Road

While on the road, keep these things in mind for your pet to have an enjoyable journey:

•   Although many dogs like to stick their heads out the window, it’s not such a good idea. Your dog risks a head injury or even a respiratory infection. Even worse, if he gets too excited he may even try to jump out the window.
•   Make sure to stop for breaks every couple of hours. Take your dog and even your cat for a walk to give them a chance to stretch their legs. Just be sure to put the leash on before opening the car door.
•   Be sure to park in the shade when you pull over, as cars can heat up very quickly. If you need to leave for a couple of minutes, make sure windows are cracked for air circulation. Never leave your pet unattended in a car for an extended period of time.
•   Bring a travel litter box for your kitty. Simply fill a small cardboard box with litter. Your kitty can use it during rest stops.
•   Buy your pet a fun new toy to play with. It will keep your pet busy if you’re on the road for a while. If you have a DVD player in your car, consider playing a video cats would like – perhaps some scurrying mice and fluttery birds.

Enjoy your trip with your furry friends. If you follow these tips, you can ensure that getting there really is half

the fun.

About the Author: Alicia is a “Jill of all trades.” She writes about travel, health, and communication on her blog MarCom Land, works as a content coordinator for Inbound Marketing Inc., and dresses up as a Disney princess to visit kid’s birthday parties on weekends.