May 2008
Vacation travel for dogs
Car safety isn't just for humans
For millions of dog owners, family vacations often begin after a trip to the boarding kennel. With proper planning, preparation,
and training, however, your dog can enjoy getaways by car with the entire family. There are countless hotels, parks, recreation
spots, and even amusement parks across the country that welcome pets. And kids often enjoy having the family dog along for
companionship and entertainment.
Before the trip
Taking a trip with your favorite canine might not be so charming if the pooch gets carsick on short rides, or if the animal's only automotive travel experience has involved a visit to the vet's office. Such animals may become panicked or anxious when put into the car. This can result in vomiting, noisy protests, or chewing the upholstery.
If this is a problem, you should plan ahead by desensitizing your canine friend to riding in a vehicle. Take short trips with fun, positive consequences, such as visits to friends and walks in a park, so that your dog learns to associate something positive with a car ride. Get the pet used to traveling restrained--whether by harness, barrier, or crate--to reduce travel anxiety during the big trip and increase safety for all.
If your pet continues to be prone to car sickness, it's probably better to leave him at home. If that's not an option, ask a veterinarian if a medication for anxiety and/or motion sickness would be appropriate. There are both prescription and homeopathic aids that can settle sensitive stomachs or minimize the effects of stress.
Pack mentality
Whether you're taking an hour's drive or a two-day trip, you'll need to pack accordingly for the furry traveler. Just as at home, the most important supplies are food and water. Your local pet store carries an assortment of collapsible and disposable bowls designed for the travel enthusiast, and even bottles of water with built-in bowls.
To reduce your dog's anxiety (and chance of destructive chewing) while on the road, give him an appropriate chew toy. There are a number of hollow rubber or plastic toys available that are perfect for stuffing with treats to keep your dog entertained.
Before the trip
Taking a trip with your favorite canine might not be so charming if the pooch gets carsick on short rides, or if the animal's only automotive travel experience has involved a visit to the vet's office. Such animals may become panicked or anxious when put into the car. This can result in vomiting, noisy protests, or chewing the upholstery.
If this is a problem, you should plan ahead by desensitizing your canine friend to riding in a vehicle. Take short trips with fun, positive consequences, such as visits to friends and walks in a park, so that your dog learns to associate something positive with a car ride. Get the pet used to traveling restrained--whether by harness, barrier, or crate--to reduce travel anxiety during the big trip and increase safety for all.
If your pet continues to be prone to car sickness, it's probably better to leave him at home. If that's not an option, ask a veterinarian if a medication for anxiety and/or motion sickness would be appropriate. There are both prescription and homeopathic aids that can settle sensitive stomachs or minimize the effects of stress.
Pack mentality
Whether you're taking an hour's drive or a two-day trip, you'll need to pack accordingly for the furry traveler. Just as at home, the most important supplies are food and water. Your local pet store carries an assortment of collapsible and disposable bowls designed for the travel enthusiast, and even bottles of water with built-in bowls.
To reduce your dog's anxiety (and chance of destructive chewing) while on the road, give him an appropriate chew toy. There are a number of hollow rubber or plastic toys available that are perfect for stuffing with treats to keep your dog entertained.
