Gearing up for a weekend getaway? Let your dog tag along on the trip. She’ll jump at the chance to set out on an adventure with her favorite people rather than being stuck at home with a dog sitter or staying at a boarder. Hitting the open road and spending extra quality time together can help strengthen your bond, not to mention he’ll enjoy exploring an exciting new place. Before pulling out of town, make sure you’ve packed the essentials for keeping your pet safe, comfortable, and happy throughout the duration of your trip. Consider these six helpful tips from Dr. Rhonda Phillips of Texas-based Patriot PAWS Service Dogs, an organization committed to training and providing service dogs to American veterans at no cost.
1. Be health conscious.
“Social distancing also applies to pets! Humans may be able to transmit COVID-19 to pets through close direct contact, though most cats and dogs are non-symptomatic and cannot transmit it to humans or other animals. Limit non-family members from getting close to your pet’s face, and instead have them show their love from six feet away. For more information, review the CDC’s guidelines,” says Dr. Phillips.
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2. Keep pets contained.
“When traveling by car, dogs need to be harnessed or leashed while cats need to be in a carrier to provide accident protection and keep them from jumping out,” Dr. Phillips says. “When staying in a pet-friendly hotel, bring a collapsible kennel or carrier to prevent pets from running out the door if a housekeeper walks in. This also ensures the safety of the housekeeping staff when you’re not around,” she says.
3. Scope out pet-friendly stops.
“Do your research before you leave to find pet-friendly pit stops on your route. Pets need regular bathroom breaks and an opportunity to stretch their legs, just like humans. Confirm that any hotels you book are pet-friendly ahead of time to avoid surprises like extra fees,” Dr. Phillips notes.
4. Beat the heat.
“Never leave your pet in the car, even with the windows cracked!” Dr. Phillips advises. “The temperature in your vehicle can rise almost 20 degrees in 10 minutes and can continue to rise the longer you are away, according to the American Veterinary Medical Association. Heat strokes can be fatal to animals within minutes when there is no air movement inside. If heading to the beach, know that sunburns can occur in dogs with light or white-colored fur. Just as it is with humans, these sunburns can lead to cancer, so take special care,” she says.
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5. Don’t pack light.
“Bring your pet’s own food, water (if possible), and toys when traveling, as the familiarity can help ease anxiety. Travel with an assortment of entertainment to keep your pet’s mind busy. Catnip toys for cats, and tug toys, ice cubes or a frozen Kong with peanut butter inside for dogs are good ways to keep them from feeling bored or isolated during your trip. Additionally, make sure to pack a pet emergency kit filled with an adequate supply of any of your furry friend’s medications, light bandage material, roll gauze, medical tape, topical triple antibiotic ointment and eye wash to be safe,” she says.
6. Have a check-in with your vet.
“If your travels takes you and your pet across state lines, talk to your vet before you leave,” Dr. Phillips advises. It’s also a good idea to give them a call if your pet is prone to anxiety or nausea during travel so you can be prepared to offer relief to your four-legged friend when they need it.
