The months of spring and summer are among the most exciting seasons to travel with loved ones, including your dogs. Yet, planning the trip and packing the essentials in advance isn’t an easy task, especially if you’re keen to bring pets along with you. We’ve collected some valuable tips and advice to help you plan your trip with your pet and prepare for any surprises that the fate of fate could give you.
Before packing your possessions and locking your door, ensure you have all essential items for your dog, including collars, leashes, medicines, toys, and even food.
Considerations When Traveling With Your Pet
Going on a trip and spending time with your pet can strengthen your relationship. Plus, you’ll have the chance to visit a new destination. Before you depart, double-check that you’ve packed everything you’ll need to ensure that your pet is secure and comfortable throughout your trip. Keep these pointers in your thoughts if you are traveling with your dog.
1. Handle Food and Treats With Love
Foods for pets are more prone to spoiling when the temperature is hot. Fat-rich foods, especially those supplemented with omega-3 fats, are more likely to be spoiled (because the fats might break down) and make your dog sick. Food and treats for your pet should be kept in a sealed container. You can ask a reputable vet facility like Little Elm vet clinic about it.
Make use of a cooler for keeping your food cool and moist, and instead of leaving the food in the vehicle where it is warm, take it to the hotel room.
2. Give Ample Amount of Water
If dogs aren’t getting sufficient water intake, they may get heatstroke. Use a snap-in dish for water for crates, or have a foldable dog bowl available. Be sure to stop drinking the water every couple of hours. Keep in mind that dogs aren’t the only ones who refuse to drink water that tastes or smells different from the water they drink at home.
If you have a picky pet, take extra water and set up an approach to gradually introduce your dog to the flavor of the water at the destination in case you’ll travel for an extended time. A cat dermatologist is vital before your travel. Making sure that your pet’s skin is healthy is essential, especially when you plan on going to cold places.
3. Give Your Pet’s Special Treats
Even if it’s just a stop for ice cream on the way somewhere, it’s OK to offer your dog a tiny vanilla cone at least once in a while. Although you shouldn’t go overboard with treats like these (they must not comprise more than 10% of your dog’s total daily calorie intake), it may be enjoyable to indulge your dog once in a while.
Before you give treats to your pet, you should make sure that it is safe for its teeth. You can consult a vet dental clinic about it. For more information, visit the nearest vet dentist near you.
4. Avoid Motion Sickness
Your veterinarian can prescribe motion-sickness medicine if your pet becomes car sick when you’re on the road. If your pet is suffering from diarrhea caused by stress, try adding one teaspoon of a fiber-rich supplement to your pet’s food (look for psyllium that is free of added sweeteners or flavorings). Car sickness may occur at any time, so make sure you have many paper towels and cleaning products if you’re worried your pet might get sick.
5. Go for a Walk
After being cooped up in the van, your dog is undoubtedly begging for a walk, which is also suitable for you. You’ll likely stop frequently for human and pet bathroom breaks, so get some exercise. Stop for pit stops along the road where you’re able to walk for a couple of minutes, and even doing a few laps in the parking area counts.
