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Have you ever taken a long road trip with your cat and by the end of it thought he was going to be a permanent fixture to your head? Or been on a road trip with your dog and he’s constantly wanting to drive? This article will address some of the problems and concerns we encounter with our four legged friends.
Our first and primary concern is safety animals should always be in a carrier or a cage. Let's face it; we wouldn’t drive our children around unless they were securely buckled. Our next concern is our pets’ comfort. To help your pet feel a bit more “at home”, put a t-shirt or your towel (something with your smell on it) as bedding for your pet. Maybe even his favorite toy. Constantly talk to your pet. Let them know they are not in trouble and that you still love them. Soothe them. Tell them its ok. If your pet just does not do well in the car, talk to your veterinarian about sedatives. If your pet tends to suffer from motion sickness, your veterinarian may be able to help with that as well. Schedule frequent stops. This way your pet can relieve himself and still have a clean cage. Take this time to offer him some water. He may not drink, but it’s always best to offer. Collars may not work real well for cats. Invest in a harness and leash. These can be found in the cat isle of most pet stores.
Our next concern is for those animals that simply wont drink on long trips. This is not normally a concern unless it’s a trip longer than six hours or if it’s very hot. If your pet absolutely refuses to drink on long or hot trips, you may need to force him to drink. The best thing to use is a 3cc syringe. Your veterinarian may sell one to you. If you can’t get a syringe use an eyedropper. You’re going to have to spend a bit more time using an eyedropper, especially for those big dogs. Fill the syringe (or eyedropper) with water. It’s best if the water isn’t cold. Cool water is the best. Insert the tip toward the back of the throat. Squeeze just a little water at a time. If you go to fast your pet may get sick.
Our next concern is making sure others know your pet is safe. Make sure all of his shots are current and you have the paper work with you. The most important is rabies. In all fifty states it is law that your pet is up to date on his rabies shots. Also make sure you know the laws for the state you’re visiting or moving to. Some states such as California and Hawaii have what’s called quarantine for up to six months.
Our last concern is travel arrangements. This is where you have to weigh the pros and cons between driving and flying. With flying you need to consider several things.
Cons for flying:
1. Your pet may have to reside in his own waste.
2. Your pet may not receive the care and attention you, yourself would give.
3. Most airlines require you to “check your pet” which means your pet would ride with the baggage and you may end up picking up your pet with the other baggage on the conveyor belt.
Pros for flying:
1. Flying is faster.
2. With flying you don’t have to worry about a car accident.
3. You wont have to listen to your pet (this is only a pro if your pet is a “talker” on long trips)
If you drive you have to consider the following.
Cons for driving:
1. It’s not as fast as flying.
2. If your pet is a “talker”, you have to listen to it.
3. You have to make frequent stops.
Pros for driving:
1. You can give your pet the care and attention you see fit.
2. Your pet may not have to lie in his own waste.
3. Your pet is closer to you.
4. Your pet isn’t treated as “just another piece of baggage”.
Whatever you decide, remember the most important thing of all, discuss with your veterinarian what to do to keep your pet safe, healthy and happy.
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