For many dog lovers, no trip is complete without the companionship of their four-legged best friends. As opposed to humans, dogs are they are easy to please. Everything is new to them and exporing new surroundings with their favorite human friend can make them really happy. However, things can go wrong so this is that you should think of in advance in order to make your trip safe and fun.
Will your dog enjoy vacation?
First of all, you should consider if your dog is a good candidate for vacation. If your dog is elderly or has health issues maybe it would be safer not to take him/her with you. Also the type of vacation is important. If you plan go hiking in the mountain a young energetic dog would be the best companion. On the contrary, this might not be a good idea for an elderly dog. If vacation means lying in the beach all day and you have a big, furry dog, remember that the heat might make him/her feel extremely uncomfortable.
So, if you decide that it is safer for your dog to stay behind leave him/her in the care of a person where he/she can feel at home. If you do not have anyone to take care of your dog look for a professional dog hostel. Your dog will miss you a lot during your leave but it is for his/her own good.
Before going on vacation with your dog
Once you’ve decided that you will go on vacation with your dog arrange a pre-trip vet visit so that you make sure that your dog is healthy enough for the trip. Also ask your vet for advice regarding conditions that may come up during your vacation, such as car sickness, heatstroke, accidents, insect stings etc.
Before you depart search your destination for the closest vet or animal hospital so that you can find it immediately in case of an emergency. Do not forget to take a first aid kit especially for your dog with his/her medication, if needed, and items to deal with emergency situations.
The next thing you need to do is get their documents in order. Make sure that you dog has up-to-date license and ID tags, and bring any papers that verify their current vaccinations.
Packing list
Water. Take extra water for your pet even if when you go for one day excursion with a suitable container for your pet to drink from.
Food. If your pet needs special food you must plan in advance and carry it with you as you may not find it at your destination.
Leash and collar. You will need to have your dog on a leash for most of the time, so it is important that it is durable and you are able to control your dog. It is wise to bring an extra leash and collar.
Idendification. Make sure your dog is microchipped as it is obligatory by law. Attach an identification tag on your dogs collar/harness with a cell phone number where you can be reached at all times.
Poop bags. Just like when you take your dog on a walk at home, you are responsible for your dog and what your dog leaves behind also on vacation.
Toys/Treats. Bring your dog’s favourite toys for him to play with to prevent boredom. Also treats can especially handy when you need your dogs attention.
During the trip
If you are travelling with public means of transport you should call them in advance and find out what are the terms and conditions of pet transfer before making your reservations. If you are travelling with your car you should always remember the following rules:
Restrain your dog in the car
It is very dangerous for a dog to be wandering in the car in case of an accident or even an emergency brake. Also he/she might distract you from driving causing an accident leading to serious injury you, your dog or other people. Depending on the size of your dog you can use a crate of harness to keep him/her in place. These methods have not been proved to absolutely safe, they are still better that nothing in case of an accident.
Keep the windows closed and doors locked
Most dogs love to stick their heads outside a moving car’s window. This is dangerous for them as it could be injured by passing vehicles or objects. You can leave your car’s window open so that they will get fresh air but not so widely open so that they can take their heads out. Also the doors should be locked so that he/she does not open them accidentally.
Do not leave your dog alone in your vehicle.
Car temperatures can rise extremely quickly, especially in summer. These high temperatures are fatal to dogs left unattended in a car, causing your dog heat exhaustion, heat stroke or even death. Never leave your dog in your car in months of high temperatures even for only a short while.
Enjoy your vacation with your dog!!
For more information and advice visit Diamond Pup.
