Taking a dog on vacation is fun, but it does require some preparation. Here’s how to avoid some common travel problems when traveling with a dog.
I don’t feel so good
Most of us get motion sickness once in a while. That curvy, hilly road or turbulent flight can make any stomach take a turn for the worse. Dogs, especially inexperienced travelers, can get carsick as well.
You can minimize your dog’s distress on a trip if you expose him to the feeling of motion before hand. Take a few short trips in the car and build up to longer ones. Most dogs with motion sickness eventually grow out of the problem as they get used to riding in the car.
A full tummy can contribute to motion sickness, so don’t give your dog any food for eight hours before a trip or water for two hours before heading out. Also ask your veterinarian about drugs that will prevent your dog from getting sick.
Take along paper towels or moist towelettes in case your dog does get sick. While one of you is on cleanup duty, another family member can take your dog for a short walk to help settle his stomach.
Keep in mind that heat can make your dog feel worse, so make sure he’s getting enough fresh, cool air during the trip. Playing with his favorite dog toys also can help distract him from his upset tummy. And regular bathroom and water breaks will keep you both more comfortable on trips.
With a little care and forethought, your dog will become a world-class traveler in no time!
Where has my little dog gone?
Your dog’s wanderlust could cause him to run off to explore—and get lost. That’s why it’s important for your dog to wear his collar or harness with identification at all times. Your dog’s ID tags should list his name and your name, home address, and phone number. If you’re traveling, buy temporary tags that you can customize with contact information for your trip.
Your dog should also wear a tag that shows he’s current on his rabies vaccinations and lists your veterinarian’s address and phone number—this tag acts like kind of a puppy passport.
Make sure he has a permanent identification, as well, a microchip injected by your veterinarian. That way, if he loses his collar, a vet or shelter will always be able to track you down.
If he does get lost, contact local shelters, animal control agencies, or veterinarians. And bring along a current mug of your mutt so you can show people exactly what he looks like. You also can post pictures around the area where he escaped.
Of course, it’s better to keep your pet from getting lost. One good step: Keep him on a leash when he’s outside. If you’re traveling by car, also consider keeping your dog in a carrier during the trip. This approach keeps him from distracting you while you drive, protects him in case of accidents, and means you don’t need to worry about him bolting the second you open the car door.
Fleas, and ticks, and more—Oh my!
When you travel, don’t forget to protect your pooch against the organisms that love to live off him. The key: Don’t drink the water! You can prevent waterborne parasites like Giardia from invading your dog by bringing along your own drinking water and by keeping him out of lakes, streams, or other bodies of water you encounter.
And just because you’re on vacation doesn’t mean you can take a break in the fight against fleas and ticks. If your dog doesn’t take medications to prevent fleas and ticks, this is a good time to start. Ticks carry all sorts of diseases, including Lyme disease, and fleas can cause irritating skin problems and carry tapeworms.
Heartworm is also a risk in many areas of the country, so make sure your dog is taking a heartworm preventive before you hit the road. If he’s not, check with your veterinarian for a recommendation and prescription. And because you never know what kind of nasties your dog might encounter on a trip, make sure he’s up to date on his vaccinations as well.
It’s an emergency!
If your dog turns green or takes a spill, he will need immediate medical attention. Before you set out, ask your veterinarian to recommend a veterinary clinic in the area you’ll be staying in case of emergencies. Or call the American Animal Hospital Association for a referral at (800) 252-2242.
Before you jet set, do some careful planning. Your dog will thank you!
