 | |
 | |
To Take or Not to Take, That is the QuestionTo Take or not to Take, that is the Question More than ever, pet owners are treating their pets like members of their families. In fact, many vacationing families are now including their pets in the annual family outing. According to the Travel Industry Association of America, 14 percent of all U.S. adults (29.1 million) say they have traveled with a pet on a trip of 50 miles or more.
As hotels, resorts and even restaurants become more pet-friendly, travelers are finding ways to include the family pet when they travel. If you are planning a trip with your pet, it is important to consider several factors: How will your pet react? Do you have pet travel essentials? How will you be traveling? Will it be fun for everyone? Are there any activities that cater to the pet? Are suitable accommodations available? -Are they per pet per room? -Are they daily or one time only? -Is this deposit refundable? -Are you going to be limited to a certain type of room?
How will your pet react? Your pets age, health, behavior and socialization skills are all very important to consider before embarking on any vacation. You certainly wouldnt want to bring a young puppy that isnt housetrained or an older dog with health problems and an uneasy temperament. Most trained, socialized pets do well traveling, but it is always important to remember that traveling stress can take its toll on everyone, including your pets.
Before you leave home, make sure that both you and your pet have everything you need for the trip. If you and your pet became separated, you need to make sure that you can be reached. It is always good to include a temporary ID tag with the address and phone number where you are staying.
It is also a good idea to get the name and phone number of a local veterinarian. For information contact the American Animal Hospital Association, Lakewood, CO, at 1 (800) 883-6301 between 7:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m. MST. Or visit their Web site at www.healthypet.com.
Pet Travel Essentials. Up-to-date medical records and health certificate. These should be obtained within 10 days of travel. Medications, supplements and vitamins. Pet carrier or crate, complete with identification. First aid kit for both you and your pet. An additional leash in case one gets lost or damaged on the trip. A container or small bag of your pets food.| Two gallons of distilled water or water from your home. Favorite toys and treats. Grooming supplies and a lint remover for hotel furniture. Tweezers or scissors for anything that may get caught in the paws or fur. Baby wipes for accidents and to keep paws and faces clean. Trash and waste removal bags. Disinfectant and carpet cleaner. For cats, newspaper, a full litter pan and liners. Pets bedding. |
