The bags are packed, map directions loaded on the GPS and all that’s left between you and your summer trip are miles on the highways. If your furry friend is joining you on your road trip, here are a few things to keep in mind this summer:
– Motion sickness is more common in cats than dogs, caused primarily by the stress and anxiety associated with travel. Signs your feline and canine friends may be suffering from motion sickness once inside the vehicle include:
– Excessive vocalization, such as loud meowing or howling
– Restlessness
– Excessive drooling
– Lethargy
– Vomiting and/or diarrhea
– Head out the window? No go. While our four-legged friends may enjoy channeling their inner skydiver by sticking their heads out the windows of a moving vehicle, they should never be allowed to do this for their safety. Debris in the air or thrown up from the road by tires can injure them, and the cold air being forced into their lungs could make them sick.
– Traveling with your pet + carrier = safety. Restraints and seat belts are available for Fido, but these have not been shown to be reliable in the event of an accident. Crates for our dogs can be securely anchored to the vehicle using an installed seatbelt. Cat carriers are the best place for your feline friend; the carrier can be secured in the vehicle by placing a fastened seatbelt around the front of the carrier.
– Timely rest stops are appreciated by our pets when traveling as much as us. Frequent stops allow them to stretch their legs and take care of business but remember to always have their collars and ID tags on and use leashes during stops.
– Buddy up when traveling. Whenever possible, bring along a friend or family member to share the caretaking duties during rest stops.
– Never leave your pet alone in a car. A quick 5-minute jaunt into a gas station for some snacks might seem short to you, but it could be an invitation to pet thieves. Also, the temperature inside your car can heat up quickly, harming your pet.
– Crossing state lines? Bring a copy of your pet’s rabies vaccination record, as some states require this proof at specified interstate crossings.
– Bring your own water. Drinking water from an area he isn’t used to could cause gastrointestinal issues, so err on the side of caution and use bottled water or bring tap water from home in plastic jugs.
Road Tripping Travels
