En route
Getting to your destination sometimes isn't "half the fun" for your pet. Find out what you need to know before you go and how to ease the stress for your animal companion along the way.
• Transportation by car is easiest, assuming your pet is comfortable travelling this way. You can keep an
eye on your pet and ensure she's safe and happy, and you can make lots of
pit stops.
• Ask your vet for advice about the best motion-sickness medication and how to administer it.
• Bring a toy, a container of water, treats and food (if necessary), and
poop bags.
• Don't let your dog hang his head out the window. Dogs can get debris in their eyes or otherwise hurt themselves.
• Use the air conditioner if it's hot, since dogs and cats cannot cool off as easily as humans.
• A pet is generally not allowed to travel with you on a bus or train in Canada, except in cargo. The one exception is if your animal is a guide
or service dog accompanying a disabled traveller.
• Due to the discomforts associated with air travel -- such as anxiety, cold temperatures in the cargo section and risk of a pet getting lost -- many people prefer not to travel with their furried friends unless they are small enough to travel in a carrier kennel that fits under the seat.
• Let your pet explore the carrier before your trip.
• If your pet is travelling in cargo, check with the airline for policies. Requirements can differ depending on which country you are travelling to, so contact the country's embassy for importation regulations.
• Sedation is not usually recommended, but if you need to use it, do a test run at home first. Ask your vet for advice about products and dosage.
Rx for the road
Pets, like people, can get sick. These tips will help prevent health problems.
• If your pet is on medication, make sure you bring enough.
• Bring enough of her own food. If you change food, she may get diarrhea. Bring a four-litre bottle of water from home, then slowly wean her on to the water at your destination.
• Get the proper vaccines (according to which country you are visiting) and be sure your health documentation is accessible (and not packed in a suitcase), especially when crossing borders and flying.
• Due to stress and excitement, vomiting and diarrhea can be common -- within reason. If you have concerns, go to a vet.
• If your pet gets lost while on vacation, contact the local animal control organization.
• Consider getting pet insurance (there is no trip-only insurance available). Plans typically cover the cost (or portion of the cost) of treatment for accident and illness. Plans do vary. Check out petcareinsurance.com.
Pets as guests
Remember your manners when it comes to your pet and you'll always be invited back.
• Ask if it's OK before you take your pet to someone else's place.
• Respect the rules of the house regarding pets. Not everyone wants an animal to sleep on the bed, for instance.
• Be mindful of others; some people do not want dogs barking, running around or jumping up on them or their furniture.
• Be a keen cleaner: dust and vacuum after your dog indoors, as well as scoop when you're outside.
• Bring your own dog towels and wipe off her dirty paws and wet fur before you let her back inside.
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