Trips for Summer Travel With Your Pooch

Steinbeck may have had his Travels With Charley, but traveling by car or camper is not always so easy. Here are some guidelines to review before hitting the road in search of America, or even the next rest stop.

Before you leave

In the planning stages, think about what your whole family will enjoy. Who will be responsible for your pet ? Is there enough room in your vehicle? Will they be welcome in your final destination or be locked in a basement? Do you have time to do a dry run and get your pet accustomed to riding in the car or being crated? 

Logistics and contingency plans

Have a back-up plan for lodging. This is a great site for getting all the details www.1clickpethotels.com. Microchips or tattoos are a good idea for identification, but are not fail-safe. Make sure your dog or cat has a comfortable travel harness with your cell number in two different places. Dogs should also wear their collars with proof of inoculations and registration.

Packing

Bring the kind of water your pet usually drinks along with a way to drink both at rest stops and in the car (a rag makes a good addition here). This is not a time to change foods, either. It is a good idea to keep a little bag of their regular food to use as treats. Toys and chews are a good distraction, but stay away from loud squeakers and chews that are easily consumed. Be aware that due to close quarters, dogs might get unusually possessive. Your veterinarian’s phone number and a copy of their shots is good to have on file also.

En route

For the trip, consider how your pet will travel. Inside the car will they be crated or have free range? If they will be loose, then a seat belt-compatible restraint is available at many pet stores. No matter how tempting, don’t let your dog hang their head out the window. A stinging bee in the eye, at even 10 mph, is reason to visit a veterinarian. Car sickness is a common malady with people and animals. Check with your veterinarian for dosages, but Dramamine is an option. There are also homeopathic alternatives, including ginger.

Rest stops

Never, ever leave a living creature in the car during the summer. This includes a shady spot or cracking the windows. No one is immune; a K-9 police dog recently died while waiting for his handler. Temperatures easily reach 100 degrees in minutes. If you want to stop, look for restaurants with patios. Although not policy, Chipotle lets dogs sit outside the patio area if the owners are on the other side of the fence. Applebee’s, Chili’s and Quaker Steak and Lube also often have outdoor dining. Dogs are not allowed in restrooms, so be ready to take turns. If you have to make a pit stop, so does your dog. Using the designated dog walking/relief area is just one of the many reasons your dog should be up to date on vaccinations. Even if maintained to look clean, contagious diseases can linger and be easily transmitted. While on your walks, be aware of new surroundings; a loud truck can make a dog yank unexpectedly, scorpions or snakes not found in this area can bite, or harmless-looking grass can deposit painful burrs.

Traveling with your pet is a chance to bond and discover new things, or it can be a nightmare. Start slowly and take a day trip. When you are ready, do your research or call a travel agent specializing in traveling with pets.