Traveling with Your Dog
Anne-Marie Weber/Corbis |
Before departure on a long trip, you should confirm that your intended accommodations permit pets and determine whether any special rules or fees apply. Ten days beforehand, visit your veterinarian for a canine physical, including scheduled inoculations, and to obtain state-required rabies and health certificates. If you are planning international travel with your pet, contact the appropriate consulate for necessary documentation. When leaving the United States for a destination in Canada or Mexico, you'll only need rabies and health certificates. Some countries (although not Canada or Mexico) and even some states (Hawaii, for example) may require quarantine periods for visiting dogs, which could cause you to rethink your plans.
In addition to traveling papers, your dog needs food, bowls, blankets, leashes, a pooper-scooper and plastic bags, and any medication he may be taking. To avoid unpleasantness of traveling with a dog with diarrhea, you can bring some of your own water from home and make the switch over to local water a gradual one. Don't neglect your dog's grooming while you're on the road; bring along any necessary grooming supplies. Your dog's favorite toys and blanket or pillow will be familiar and comforting to him. Make sure your dog is wearing a flat collar (and never a choke collar) with identification tags listing your home address, a neighbor's phone number and a number at your destination. In the event that he gets lost, bring along a good photo. And it never hurts to have a canine first-aid kit with you.
Find Your Perfect Pet
Comments