APP.com Digital Desk
Asbury Park Press
Have you planned your summer vacation? Don't leave your furry best friend behind!
With a little preparation, everyone can have a smooth and enjoyable trip. Here's pet veterinarian Dr. Ruth McPete's guide to stress-free pet travel.
Plan like a pro
- Great Places to Stay: Find out if your destination welcomes pets. Look into pet-friendly hotels, campgrounds, and vacation rentals. Pay attention to any restrictions on size and number of pets.
- Healthy Travel: Schedule a veterinary appointment to review your pet's health, update vaccinations, and discuss parasite prevention. Obtain a health certificate if required for air travel or out-of-state travel. Consider calming aids for anxious pets.
🐶Dog-friendly restaurants and breweries on the Jersey Shore will keep your pooch full
Pack smart
- Carrier Comfort: If you're traveling by plane, choose an airline-approved carrier and train your pet to be comfortable on board.
- Car Crusade: Travelling by car? A booster seat is useful for small dogs, while larger dogs may need a travel barrier for safety.
- Pet essentials: Make sure you provide plenty of food, treats, water, and food bowls. Don't forget a collar with an ID tag, a leash, and a favorite toy. Bring a familiar, comfortable bed and any necessary medications.
Practice Makes Perfect
- Car conditioning: Get your pet used to car rides with short, fun drives, rewarding your pet with treats and praise.
- Carrier Reliability: If you're traveling by plane, gradually get your pet used to the carrier by leaving it open and putting treats inside to help create positive associations.
safety first
- The Magic of Microchips: Make sure your pet is microchipped with up-to-date contact information. Collars can fall off, but microchips provide permanent identification.
- Never leave anything behind: This is very important, never leave pets in the car as they can overheat within minutes and become deadly.
Memories that last a lifetime
With just a little extra planning, you and your pets can create unforgettable vacation memories.
About Dr. Ruth McPete
Dr. McPete is a veterinarian, media personality and author. For more pet health tips and travel ideas, visit her website: https://drruthpetvet.com/about/
