By
Sonia Manning
It's probably one of the best times of the year for us - vacation! Of course, the whole family must come! That often includes pets, especially your dog. However, while we can easily cope with the discomfort of traveling by thinking of our destination, dogs don't have this comforting prospect. They are stuck in the here and now, which often means a stuffy car or a noisy plane. So what can you do to make the journey as comfortable as possible for your dog?
If you are going on a summer vacation by car, heat can be not only a source of discomfort, but also a threat to your dog. So during the drive, you should make sure that fresh air or air conditioning can get to your dog. If he's in the back seat of the car, check that you don't have suitcases piled in front of the vents or windows blocking the air from getting to him.
Take regular breaks - not only for your sake, but for his! Many people leave their dog alone in the car while going to a restaurant or to shop, which is downright dangerous, even for short periods of time. Apart from that, your dog will probably be grateful for an opportunity to stretch his legs.
Another important point, especially in hot weather, is to keep your dog hydrated. Water should be offered regularly.
When traveling by car with your dog, it is also essential to ensure his safety - as well as your own. Special travel kennels can be purchased for dogs of all sizes. They ensure that your dog cannot distract you while driving, but also provide safety for your pet in case of an accident. Alternatively, you can buy a special seat belt that can be strapped around your dog's body like a harness.
Plane travel, on the other hand, is an entirely different matter. First of all, before booking your flight, make sure your dog can fly on the airline you're considering. Some airlines do not allow pets at all, while others have restrictions on the pet's size, the size and material of the animal carrier, what paperwork needs to accompany the animal, medications to be attached to the animal's crate, and more. Also, certification of vaccination and proper health are required by many airlines for pets to board.
You can go online to find rules for different airlines; it's even better to call and discuss the matter with the appropriate airline personnel to make sure you have a clear understanding of what they require. You'll need to follow their guidelines to the letter to prevent problems at check-in.
Of course, traveling may also make your dog sick. Altitude or motion sickness can occur. Also, panic attacks can be an issue. When you know you'll be traveling by car, try taking him on short car trips at home before you leave to see how he reacts.
Before you travel, it's a good idea to take your dog to your vet for a check up. This is also a chance to ask for any medication you may need. For example, if your dog is very nervous, you can ask your vet for something to calm him down.
Don't worry, you don't have to knock your dog out with sleeping pills. There are natural remedies like "Happy Traveler" or herbal remedies such as Bach flowers, which have no side effects whatsoever.
You should also ask your vet which vaccinations may be needed. This depends on your destination and if the dog will spend any time in a pet hotel or kennel. All boarding kennels require proof of your dog's vaccinations, which usually includes rabies, DHPP, and/or kennel cough vaccinations. Watch your timing for the vaccines - Bordetella (kennel cough vaccination) should be administered at minimum 5 days prior to traveling.
While you cannot spare your dog the stress of traveling, you can always make the journey a little more comfortable for him. If you take the time to do this, the whole family can have a great time!
It's probably one of the best times of the year for us - vacation! Of course, the whole family must come! That often includes pets, especially your dog. However, while we can easily cope with the discomfort of traveling by thinking of our destination, dogs don't have this comforting prospect. They are stuck in the here and now, which often means a stuffy car or a noisy plane. So what can you do to make the journey as comfortable as possible for your dog?
If you are going on a summer vacation by car, heat can be not only a source of discomfort, but also a threat to your dog. So during the drive, you should make sure that fresh air or air conditioning can get to your dog. If he's in the back seat of the car, check that you don't have suitcases piled in front of the vents or windows blocking the air from getting to him.
Take regular breaks - not only for your sake, but for his! Many people leave their dog alone in the car while going to a restaurant or to shop, which is downright dangerous, even for short periods of time. Apart from that, your dog will probably be grateful for an opportunity to stretch his legs.
Another important point, especially in hot weather, is to keep your dog hydrated. Water should be offered regularly.
When traveling by car with your dog, it is also essential to ensure his safety - as well as your own. Special travel kennels can be purchased for dogs of all sizes. They ensure that your dog cannot distract you while driving, but also provide safety for your pet in case of an accident. Alternatively, you can buy a special seat belt that can be strapped around your dog's body like a harness.
Plane travel, on the other hand, is an entirely different matter. First of all, before booking your flight, make sure your dog can fly on the airline you're considering. Some airlines do not allow pets at all, while others have restrictions on the pet's size, the size and material of the animal carrier, what paperwork needs to accompany the animal, medications to be attached to the animal's crate, and more. Also, certification of vaccination and proper health are required by many airlines for pets to board.
You can go online to find rules for different airlines; it's even better to call and discuss the matter with the appropriate airline personnel to make sure you have a clear understanding of what they require. You'll need to follow their guidelines to the letter to prevent problems at check-in.
Of course, traveling may also make your dog sick. Altitude or motion sickness can occur. Also, panic attacks can be an issue. When you know you'll be traveling by car, try taking him on short car trips at home before you leave to see how he reacts.
Before you travel, it's a good idea to take your dog to your vet for a check up. This is also a chance to ask for any medication you may need. For example, if your dog is very nervous, you can ask your vet for something to calm him down.
Don't worry, you don't have to knock your dog out with sleeping pills. There are natural remedies like "Happy Traveler" or herbal remedies such as Bach flowers, which have no side effects whatsoever.
You should also ask your vet which vaccinations may be needed. This depends on your destination and if the dog will spend any time in a pet hotel or kennel. All boarding kennels require proof of your dog's vaccinations, which usually includes rabies, DHPP, and/or kennel cough vaccinations. Watch your timing for the vaccines - Bordetella (kennel cough vaccination) should be administered at minimum 5 days prior to traveling.
While you cannot spare your dog the stress of traveling, you can always make the journey a little more comfortable for him. If you take the time to do this, the whole family can have a great time!
Sonia Manning provides information and resources about dog health conditions and tips for keeping your dog healthy and happy!
Visit her website to find answers to your questions about your best friend's Dog Health Conditions.
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Visit her website to find answers to your questions about your best friend's Dog Health Conditions.
