Results tagged “pet travel” from Valley of the Dogs

I got several emails about various holiday issues in regards to your pets. I'm sure you've read it all before but it doesn't hurt to be reminded of things like this. Here's something about what to do when traveling with Fido or Fluffy during this season.

TIS THE SEASON TO TRAVEL WITH PETS

Easy Pet Travel Tips
(New York - November 17, 2008) -- Whether you are traveling to a neighboring town or over the river and through the woods, it's important to always put your pet's safety first, which can easily be overlooked with the holiday hustle and bustle.

According to Jane Manfredi, DVM, being prepared is the best thing pet owners
can do to ensure a safe and easy trip with a pet this holiday season. Below
are a few tips to ensure a merry ride for you and your pet:

Always Use an ID tag: Just like you always tag your luggage, be sure to tag your pet. Pet owners are discovering a new generation of web-based pet identification services that can easily help you find your pet. CLICK HERE for previous posts on such services. A reader commented on another web-based pet ID service called Return Moi Pets! Click the link and check it out. It's got the same idea.

Do Your Homework: If you and your pet are, please review the current Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regulations about traveling with pets. Make sure your pet has proper ventilation and spacing in its cargo. If your pet is flying as a passenger, confirm that your carrier meets FAA size regulations.

Document It: Before hitting the road, be sure to pack a copy of your pet's vaccination records, including rabies. More and more public places like dog parks,
hotels and pet playgroups are requesting this documentation.

Create a Home Away from Home: Help create a sense of security for your pet by familiarizing them with their travel crate weeks prior to your trip. Be sure to include cozy reminders from home, such as your pet's favorite blanket or toy.

Feed a light meal to your pet three to four hours before traveling. Pets should never fly on an empty stomach or be fed while in transport.

Don't forget to tell visiting family and friends your pet's dietary guidelines. It's often tempting to feed a cute furry friend table scraps that may disagree with your pet's sensitive system.

Check and Groom Before You Go: To ease the stress of travel on a pet, it's best to take your pet for a check up at your veterinarian's office and a grooming appointment at least a week in advance of travel. Get some anxiety medications from your vet prior to traveling. And make sure your pet as ample supplies of other medicines he or she needs.

Don't forget having your dogs nails trimmed can make traveling more enjoyable for both dog and owner. Finally, just remember the winter season is upon us and the weather outside can be frightful... pets should never be left unattended in a parked car for any
period of time especially during the chilly winter months (or hot summer months if you're traveling south of the equator).