No matter how beautiful my vacation destination is, it won't be paradise without my beloved dachshund Shadow by my side. If you're planning to take your dog on vacation with you, do as I do and make your preparations for the trip way in advance. This is to ensure that your vacation is happy and safe for both you and your dog.
At least two weeks before your departure date, make sure all of your dog's vaccinations are up to date. If you're planning to go hiking or camping in a place where Lyme Disease is common, make sure your dog gets vaccinated for it, too. Don't forget to apply tick and flea prevention on your dog, as well.
If you're planning to travel by car, make sure to keep your dog in a sturdy pet carrier for safety. While there are special seatbelts and restraints specifically made for dogs, they haven't been proven to be as safe as carriers during a crash. If you're travelling by plane, make sure that your pet carrier is airplane-approved. You can line it with a blanket or newspapers to make it more comfortable. Whether you're traveling by car or by plane, you should get your dog used to the carrier well in advance of your trip.
At least two weeks before your departure date, make sure all of your dog's vaccinations are up to date. If you're planning to go hiking or camping in a place where Lyme Disease is common, make sure your dog gets vaccinated for it, too. Don't forget to apply tick and flea prevention on your dog, as well.
If you're planning to travel by car, make sure to keep your dog in a sturdy pet carrier for safety. While there are special seatbelts and restraints specifically made for dogs, they haven't been proven to be as safe as carriers during a crash. If you're travelling by plane, make sure that your pet carrier is airplane-approved. You can line it with a blanket or newspapers to make it more comfortable. Whether you're traveling by car or by plane, you should get your dog used to the carrier well in advance of your trip.
If your pet isn't microchipped, make sure it has a sturdy collar with identification tags with your name and contact information on it in case it gets lost.
Packing list
If your dog is prone to motion sickness, ask your veterinarian if he or she can recommend an over-the-counter anti-nausea medication.
Packing list
- These are the basic things you must bring on an extended trip with your dog.
- Pet passport/immunization record
- Health certificate, if taking your dog across state or international borders
- A current photograph of your dog
- Heartworm medication and other preventatives
- Vitamins and supplements
- Dog food
- Food and water dishes
- Baby wipes
- Waste bags
- Petroleum jelly for soothing painful paws after hiking
- Dog toys and treats
- Insect repellent
- Sun cream
- An extra collar and leash
If your dog is prone to motion sickness, ask your veterinarian if he or she can recommend an over-the-counter anti-nausea medication.
Finally, make sure that you have your veterinarian's phone number in case of emergencies, and phone numbers to reputable veterinary clinics in your destination in case you need medical assistance for your dog during your stay.
Hello there, I'm Scott Jay Abraham. For more posts on dogs and travel, please subscribe to my blog.
Hello there, I'm Scott Jay Abraham. For more posts on dogs and travel, please subscribe to my blog.