Traveling With Your Dog This Summer

Traveling with your dog can be fun and exciting in case you are both prepared. Consider the method that you plan to travel well ahead of time. Plane, train, boat, or vehicle, or perhaps a combination of transportation methods. Many dogs experience high anxiety and stress when traveling. Here are a few methods to plan and make an effort to minimize stress on the dog and yourself. The key is organization. Give yourself time to get organized, so you don't need to rush around at the last minute creating additional stress on your own that will be used in your dog. This is a checklist to truly get you started:

Have you any idea your exact travel path?

How long can you intend on traveling at the same time?

It is strongly recommended that you break every 4-5 hours to let your pet out of the car, for instance. For a pee break and some exploring. However, in other ways of transportation this may not be as feasible.

How will your dog be traveling, crate, carry bag, or freely?

If crate or carry bag, do you have one yet?

How does your pet respond to it? Condition your pet, by letting the dog sit and lay in the crate or carry bag and make it a pleasant, positive experience. Let the dog spend some time with his or her favourite chew toy while in the crate or bag. Do not completely lock the door or zip the bag shut at first, leave it open, so the dog can chose when ahead and go from the crate or bag. This is just practice and you also want the dog to discover that it is his / her space. If you will be separated from your own dog during travel, such as in an airplane, consider leaving a piece of your clothing in the crate for your dog to possess your scent, and hopefully minimize stress during the separation. See below for travel accessories and crate options.

What to pack for your dog?

Water! Ensure that you bring enough water for the traveling time and provide it to your pet frequently. But bringing water also means you need an effective way to provide it to your dog. Some companies have a particular water bottle with a lid that converts to a portable dog drinking cup. Or perhaps a water bottle that functions such as a bigger version of the water dispenser on a hamster cage. There are also foldable bowls available made for traveling. Or whatever way you intend to manage. See below for excellent portable - travel bowl ideas!

Consider bringing food!

Make sure you have sufficient to last to duration of one's trip. Determine how many regular meals your dog will need supplemented through the adventure. I usually suggested bringing an extra 1-2 meals in case things take longer than expected or you ration slightly larger portions at meal time. You don't want to run out. You don't have the freedom of an endless supply just like the comforts of home. It could not be convenient to stop for a few dog food either, because you may not know the area and where in fact the pet store is.

Consider bringing just a few toys

Three at the most. Also, pick items that your dog will in actuality play with. Long-lasting chew toys or balls to chase, are better options than the dog's cute teddy bear that he or she cuddles with. Chewing and running are how dogs alleviate their stress. Providing toys that provide your pet an outlet during the travelling is probably the best and most important things that can be done. Also remember that your dog may not enjoy his / her chew toy the same as at home. Your dog may be guarded and uncomfortable in unfamiliar surroundings. Do not offer reassurance to your pet, you could be reinforcing the fear and anxiety. As your dog gets more comfortable, this will pass. And when you return home, things ought to be normal again.

Does your dog take any regular medication?

The dog's health is most significant. It is also worth seeking out veterinary hospitals on the way (by Google-ing before you go!) and take the contact information with you. Know which vets are open 24 hours and which ones will undoubtedly be closest to you at any moment. Not only for dogs with medical conditions. But also in a random emergency, its not necessary the excess stress of unfamiliar surrounding. Also, some dogs are so high anxiety that they may possible need medications to help with the ease of travelling. Should you be concerned about your dogs stress levels when traveling please contact your vet. If your dog gets car-sick, and you also plan to travel this way, consult your vet first. Generally, you need to bring a copy of one's dog's most recent vet check. Stating his or her current health status, health background and recent vaccinations.

If you plan to stay in hotels on the way, make sure they are dog friendly

Plan it out before you arrive at the door. Be prepared to possibly pay an extra fee for the fuzzy guest, but most dog friendly places leave a delicacy behind after house keeping as a nice incentive.

Enjoy your trip!

TO VISIT Right - Travel Light!

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