8. September 2011
| by
John
You’re planning a great summer vacation and can’t imagine it without Slobber or Juggernaut? Don’t despair; many individuals travel with their pets. More often than not, a family will be traveling with a dog rather than a cat, but the tips included in this article apply to both canines and felines.
Getting There
How will you all get there? A car trip is fine for both cats and dogs, but please make sure they are safely secured in the car. A cat should be in their carrier at all times, and you can purchase a special harness for your dog that acts as a seatbelt. Animals can become anxious in unfamiliar surroundings, so be aware that they may want to jump out of the car at any given pit stop. Keep a leash handy at all times, and be sure to stop frequently to allow your pet to drink fresh water and “go”.
If you’re planning to travel by air, please check with your airline’s pet policy, they can vary by destination. Some airlines require a pet to have up-to-date vaccinations. If you’re travelling by air or internationally, check with your veterinarian to see if there are any special requirements.
Unfortunately, Greyhound and Amtrak services do not allow pets on board. If you are traveling with ViaRail, you may be able to check your pet for an extra fee.
Pet Safety
Make sure to travel with your pet’s documentation and registration papers. Make a list of emergency veterinary services in your travel location. Be sure that his or her vaccinations are up to date. If your pet has special dietary restrictions, plan ahead and make sure to bring enough food for the entire stay. Do not keep your dog or cat in a hot car for even a short period of time. Remember – pets aren’t heat proof, and are susceptible to heat stroke. Make sure they always have fresh water to drink and a cool, shady spot to relax after a long walk or a few hours in the sun. Bring a few of your pet’s favourite toys or bedding to keep them happy and calm. And give out plenty of cuddles!
The Best Vacation Ever
When planning activities during your trip, keep in mind that some public beaches may not allow dogs during “business hours”, but they may be allowed early morning or evening. As far as where to stay, well, you’d be surprised to find how many vacation rental locations are committed to making it a great vacation for the whole family – even the four-legged members. When you’re deciding where to stay, call ahead and ask if they accept pets. There are lots of campgrounds, bed and breakfasts, and cottage rentals Ontario and otherwise, that will happily accommodate your pet.
Once you’ve planned your trip, get ready for your vacation to go from great to amazing with your best friends right there with you. Happy tails!
