Tips and suggestions before your trip
1. Make sure your pet's tags are updated with your current name, address, phone number (you may want to list your cell phone number), and microchip number (if applicable). The last thing you would want is a lost pet with no way for anyone to contact you when found.
2. Make sure your dog license is up to date.
2. Call your pet's veterinarian or check your records to make sure your pet is up to date on their vaccines with rabies being top priority!!
3. You may need medication to relax an anxious pet or for a pet that gets car sick. Call your local veterinarian medication options and doses. You many want to do a test run before you leave to make sure the medication works and what reaction you get from your pet. Some over the counter medication they prescribe my not work well for you pet so it's best to know that in advance so you can try another medication suggested by your pet's veterinarian.
4. If you plan to fly to your destination with your pet in tow, check with the airline for details on their policies.
5. If you’re traveling out of the country, depending on your destination, you may need a health certificate from your pet's veterinarian. Depending when you pet was last seen you may need to make an appointment for a checkup before your trip. Try to make an appointment in advance so that you're not rushing around the day before your trip. Contact your veterinarian for more details.
6. If your spending days away find out if there are pet friendly hotels in that area.
7. Search for a local veterinary hospital in the area. Find out where they are located, their hours and what pet emergency hospital they use during the hours they aren't open or on holidays. Make sure to get the emergency hospital's phone number and directions.
8. Use a car seatbelt harness or pet car seat to protect your pet from sudden stops or changes in speed while traveling.
9. Offer your pet a small meal before leaving for your trip.
