If you’re planning on taking your dog with you on summer vacation, them make sure you know how to travel with them. Traveling can be a stressful endeavor for your dog, so be sure to follow these steps to lighten the load.
Driving with Your Dog
Go for a trial run
Before you head out on your journey, make sure your dog can handle it first by taking them out for a drive sometime before your trip (usually 40 minutes to an hour will do). Keep an eye on them to see how they behave, if they get anxious, or if they get car sick.
Restrain your dog
According to AAA, 29% of drivers say they get distracted by their unrestrained dog while driving. Distracted driving can lead to accidents, so use a pet restraint system or crate to keep your dog comfortable but in place throughout the trip.
Bring a pet travel-kit
To make sure your dog is well taken care of during the trip, bring along some of their toys and necessities. Your dog’s travel kit should include:
- Food
- Bowl
- Water
- Leash
- Waste scoop
- Plastic bags
- Grooming supplies
- Medication
- Travel documents
Never leave them alone
And as always, never leave your animals alone inside the car. In the summer time, a car can heat up quick, reaching 110 degrees in 10 minutes. So if you’re leaving the car, play it safe and bring your dog with you.
Flying with Your Dog
Book a direct flight, if possible
This way there’s less chance of your dog being left on the tarmac in bad weather, or mishandled by baggage personnel
Purchase a USDA-approved shipping crate
You’ll want to get a crate that is large enough for your dog to stand, sit, and turn around in, and is lined with a bedding. It should also have the proper identification, marked with the words “Live Animal,” as well as your name, cell phone, destination phone number, and photo of your pet. The night before your trip, tape a small pouch of food outside the crate so airline personnel can feed them.
Do your research
Finally, do your research on the available airlines. Some airlines, for example, have specific regulations or fees when it comes to pets. They also vary on whether or not your pet can fly in the cabin, or if they’re sent with checked baggage.
Do you have any further questions about traveling with smaller breeds? Are you looking to add a new miniature pup to your family this season? Whatever your needs, call Pauley’s Pups today at 804-798-7877 or stop in and see us and our adorable pups on Washington Highway in Ashland, Virginia.