Traveling with your pet

Pets often make excellent travelling companions.  Travelling with you pet can be quite an adventure!  Following are some tips to make the trip memorable and safe for you and your four-legged friend.

Packing...
You will want to bring along your pet's food and water dishes, as well as any special toys or bedding.  Anything that your pet associates with home and security will make the trip much less stressful for him..and you! 

Safety in the car...
Always secure your pet in the vehicle.  He should be contained in a secure crate or have his movements restricted by a canine seat belt.

Always have at least one bowl of fresh water for your dog and at least two windows cracked for ventilated air. Consider a solar powered fan that fits snugly into the window and is powered by the sun.

NEVER leave your pet in the car - even for just a few minutes.  Keep in mind that pets can suffer from heatstroke when left in the car.  The temperature inside a closed vehicle will climb quickly and cause your pet to suffer.  Leave the windows cracked and always park in the shade if you must leave your pet unattended.

Identification & paperwork...
Always have a copy of your pet's vaccination records and the name/number of your veterinarian on hand.  Your pet should have a current rabies tag as well as a tag with your name and phone number. 

If your pet has been microchipped, make sure that registration informaion is up-to-date with the company who distributed the type of chip use.

Always clean up after your pet...
When making a rest stop, always have a supply of plastic bags to you won't leave behind your pet's "business." 

Pet-friendly lodging...
Many websites carry a list of pet-friendly accommodtions throughout the United States and Canada.  Check ahead that you are staying in a pet-friendly hotel or resort.  Request a room at the end of a hall, away from ice machines and pool activity.  The quieter the room, the less chance of making your pet nervous and causing errant barking.