Travelling with your dog?

Each year we have the opportunity to visit with family either in our own homes or away.  Many of us are lucky that our dogs are welcome along for the festivities.

Here’s a few travel tips to keep your furry friend safe while travelling

Keep your dog on a leash at all times while on the road.  Even while in the car, I advise you leave the leash on. I’m a big fan of seatbelts for dogs or attaching the leash to the hand bar with a carabineer.  This prevents your dog from bolting away when you open the door.

Clean up after your dog.  Your great Aunt Ida may say it’s ok, but its best to leave a good impression – or none at all – of your dog when you leave.  You don’t want poor Uncle Albert stepping in an unexpected gift in the back yard. Plus, pick up after your dog while at rest stops. Its courteous and the law.

Keep identification on your dog at all times. In the off chance your dog gets away from you, most people first look for a way to contact the owner before calling any local shelters.  We want to reunite you with your dog as soon as possible to avoid any unnecessary stress for your pup. (tip: Most lost dogs are reunited with their owner within hours when proper ID tags are used.)

Keep your dog up to date on all vaccines and carry a copy with you. Just because your pup lives a healthy life doesn’t mean other dogs do.   There’s no telling if the local neighborhood dogs at Granny’s place are up to date OR if the local wildlife are healthy. (Tip: increased stress can reduce a dogs immune response and make them more vulnerable to infections like Kennel Cough or Canine Flu. Vaccines can decrease your dogs risk of getting sick)

Carry extra supplies in case you get stranded:  End of year weather can be unpredictable.  A cold snap could turn into a snow storm and delay your drive home. Most people food will be too rich for your pups tummy and could possibly cause an upset stomach and accidents Cousin Lucy doesn’t want in her house.  Bring enough food to cover emergencies.  I also recommend you bring your dogs bedding or crate. If your dog requires medicine, please bring extra for the same reason.

Supervise your pet:  Remember, there will be lots of people, food and gifts around.  It’s your responsibility to keep your dog safe at the family gathering.  Know which foods and plants are dangerous, which family member doesn’t like dogs, which kids like to grab or poke and where all the food and gifts will be stored.

Give you pup a time out:  If Uncle Charlie is overwhelming for you, I’m sure he’s overwhelming your dog.  Take time to walk your dog not only to potty but to de-stress.  Recognize signs of stress and be your dogs advocate.  If Fluffy looks like she needs a break take her to her bed or crate in another room or quiet corner of the house.  Dogs need a break from the activities too.  You can use them as an excuse if you need a time out for yourself “ooh, looks like Fluffy needs some alone time!  We’ll be back after our walk”!

Luckily, most visits with family are easy but by following a few simple rules, you can reduce stress for everyone for the Holidays!

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