(Newswire.net — August 9, 2013) Fort Myers, FL —
Traveling with a much-loved pet to a new destination can be both fun and exciting, however, there are risks which may be encountered and possible problems to be dealt with which can take detract from the whole experience. By arming yourself with the travel safety tips below then both you and your pet should have nothing to worry about!
Carry a Photograph of Your Pet at All Times
Sadly thousands of pets go missing each year and the likelihood of these increases when traveling through unfamiliar environments. If – even after taking every possible precaution to prevent it happening – your pet did happen to go missing, then it is absolute imperative that you have a recently taken photograph to help those involved in the search easily identify your pet.
Have Your Pet Wear an ID Tag
Before embarking on your travels you should fit your pet with an ID tag that includes essential information such as your cell phone number, email address, the pet’s name and anything else important which can fit onto the tag. This will enable people to speedily reconnect you with your pet should it go missing.
Carefully Plan Stops To Feed, Water and Toilet Your Pet
Traveling for long times can be uncomfortable for anyone, not just your pet. However, since your pet can’t decide by itself to stop to eat, take a drink of water or relieve itself, it is essential that you plan regular stops for them. Aim to drive continuously for no more than 3 hours at the time before giving your pet a break to take care of these needs. Never feed your pet while driving as it could choke and always try to stop in the shade if you have been traveling in hot, humid weather to allow a chance to cool off.
Make Sure Your Pet Is Safe In Your Car
For both your own and your pet’s safety it is important your pet is seated safely and securely when your vehicle is in transit. The options for doing this depend on your pet type and its size; for smaller animals a carrier is often the best solution and for larger animals a carefully chosen crate may be most suitable. A restraint system should be put in place that ensures your pet is unable to move freely around the vehicle (which may be dangerous) while, at the same time, providing a little room for mobility and comfort. The website www.canineauto.com carries many of these different restraint options.
Research Veterinary Clinics In Advance
As soon as you know your itinerary you should check-out nearby veterinary clinics for all the stops on your trip. You never know when your pet might get sick – and traveling increases the likelihood of this happening – so it is sensible to find out where to get help nearby and make a note of their location and phone numbers. Before embarking, make sure your pet health insurance is up-to-date and will cover you for every destination on your travels; if it doesn’t then upgrade your plan.
For more information about Pet Travel Safety you can visit http://www.canineauto.com/ or www.youtube.com/watch?v=T4h6fOzFaRc