Pets and Traveling: Keeping them safe

April 11th, 2016 by

Traveling-With-Pets-Dave-Arbogast-Conversion-Vans600It’s important to make adequate preparations when your pets will be traveling in a vehicle. Having their routines altered can cause stress for many pets, making it even more important to take special precautions when you’re on the road. The following are several tips for keeping your furry friends safe and comfortable while traveling in your conversion van.

Bring Along Plenty of Water and Food
This should go without saying, but what’s not so obvious is that a pet may need more food and water than usual when traveling. The stress of travel can cause dehydration and having plenty of water at all times for your pet is important. It is also a good idea to bring extra treats along. Having a treat they enjoy to chew on can help them relax as well as keep them busy during long car trips.

Include the Comforts of Home
Make sure to bring along a favorite toy, blanket, or pillow for your pet. Not only will they be able to see and feel a familiar belonging, but it will smell like home. While you don’t want to overload on too many items, bringing along at least two or three will make your pet’s travels more enjoyable.

Bring Along a Carrier for Your Pet to Stay In
It’s ideal to bring a carrier that your pet is used to staying in along with you while traveling. If your pet doesn’t have a carrier one will need to be purchased. It’s important to keep your pet restrained while you are driving. A sudden stop can be dangerous for a pet that’s being allowed to freely roam through the vehicle. Even having a pet sit on someone’s lap is not considered safe while a vehicle is moving.

Give Your Pet Some Time to Roam
As important as it is to have a carrier while traveling, for long trips it’s just as vital not to keep your pet locked up the entire time you’re on the road. Keeping your pets as healthy as possible during travel means allowing them a break for exercising. Try to stop at a rest stop along the way to give pets time to stretch their legs.

Make Sure Your Pet Has a Tag
If your pet would happen to get lost or run away it’s important that they have identifying information on them. Along with making sure your pet has proper tags, it’s important to bring along documents regarding your pet. If there would be a medical emergency away from home having records from your local vet can help a different provider accurately treat your pet.

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