- Do you subscribe to Dharma Dog Training’s Newsletter? You should.
- A Unique Campaign from The Humane Society of the United States
- Rabid bats in Omaha- Stay safe, prepared with these tips
- Springtime Activities in Omaha
- Mill Dog Monthly from Bailing Out Benji
- World Spay Day, Legislative Alert in Nebraska
- Attend the Nebraska Rescue Council’s monthly meeting this Saturday
- Five Hard-to-Ignore Reasons to Adopt!
- Paws in Pink to Benefit Breast Cancer Foundation
- VCA, Inc. Acquires MidWest Vet Specialists from Kansas State University
Car Travel Safety For Paws And Claws
Pet-friendly hotels have risen to more than 40,000 in recent years, which makes taking Fido or Fluffy on vacation easier than ever. From departure to destination, however, planning ahead is essential if you’re new to traveling with your pet. Most opt for driving over flying, which is more good news if your want to bring along your fur family. Once you’re sure your car and pet are ready for the trip, you’re almost ready to hit the road. Before you fill up the tank, get acquainted with these tips for safe travels.
Ensure You’re Insured
Before you rev up your engine, double check that all of your insurance policies are up to date and in order. This includes your vehicle coverage, roadside assistance and emergency services, and even your medical – in case of emergency out of town. If you travel often, looking into travel insurance will be worth your time. Make sure you have all of your necessary information before you depart. Having these things at the ready will not only ease your mind, but in the case of an accident, it saves valuable time, which is good for both you and your pet. Ensuring that everything is properly organized before your departure will enable a smooth journey, which is all the more important when you have your furry friend along for the ride.
Map Out Your Trip
This is another step to take before you actually begin your trip, but it’s well worth it. Planning and mapping out your drive means you’ll be able to schedule stops for eating, bathroom breaks, and getting your pet a little exercise before getting back in the car. Remember to offer your pet drinks of water often, even if it’s not hot, and find areas that allow you to take your pet out for a stretch, walk, and a potty break. Cats, of course, unless otherwise trained, should be kept enclosed in your vehicle or inside an establishment so they don’t run off, but it’s still a good idea to offer them food and water often, and give them some attention during stops.
Seat Your Pet Safely
Once you’re finally in your car, properly securing your pet within the vehicle is an absolute must. Some dogs can be safely harnessed and secured with a special seat belt attachment in the back seat. In this case, make sure the harness is properly sized, and never attach the belt to a standard collar. The more conventional means of securing a pet is in a carrier or crate; this needs to be large enough for the animal to stand, sit, lie down and turn around. The crate itself should also be safely secured in your vehicle so it doesn’t slide and cause injury or accidents.
Your car and pet are ready, insurance and emergency services are duly noted, the trip is planned out, and everyone is safely secured – you’re ready to hit the road, Jack. Follow these tips for safe traveling with your four-legged friend to keep your trip the way it should be: fun and stress free!
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