Whether you have decided to take your pet with you on vacation or leave him in a kennel, there are several things you need to do. Here is a checklist to help you remember all the necessities.
If Your Pet is Traveling With You
Have your veterinarian examine your pet within 2 weeks of travel.
Make sure your pet is up to date on vaccines.
Bring vaccine and health records with you.
Bring your pet's health certificate if you cross state lines.
Make sure your pet has a securely fastened collar and identification tag.
Bring a sufficient amount of your pet's food.
Bring bowls for food and water.
Bring bottles of water for times when your pet is thirsty and water is not available.
Bring leashes, toys and bedding.
Make sure your pet has been treated for fleas and ticks.
If your pet is on medication, make sure to bring enough to last throughout the trip.
Bring a carrier or crate for your pet to travel in safely.
If Your Pet is Staying in a Kennel
Visit various kennels and decide which one you prefer.
Make kennel reservations well in advance, especially around holidays.
Have your pet examined within 2 weeks of kenneling.
Make sure your pet is up to date on vaccines and is given any vaccines required by the kennel.
Have copies of your pet's health record and vaccine record to take to the kennel.
Leave an emergency contact number and make sure that person is aware of his or her responsibilities.
Consider leaving a credit card number with the emergency contact person.
Leave a copy of your vacation itinerary with the kennel personnel, including telephone numbers, in case they need to reach you.
Make sure your pet has been treated for fleas and ticks.
Bring your pet's own food.
Bring toys, special blankets or bedding.
If your pet is on medication, make sure to bring enough to last through his stay at the kennel.
If there are any special considerations, make sure to write them out and give a copy to the kennel. For example, if your dog doesn't do well with cats, make sure the kennel is aware of this so they can take any necessary precautions.
Leave the name and phone number of your veterinarian and any emergency numbers your vet may have.
Make sure to contact your veterinary hospital to inform them you are out of town and who is caring for your pet.
You may want to write a letter releasing the emergency contact person from any responsibility or liability regarding medical care of your pet.
Related Articles
-
1
On the Road with Your Dog
Getting away this holiday season? Pets can make excellent traveling companions. Here are some tips that will make the trip more pleasant for both you and your dog.
» Read More
-
2
What to Do if Your Dog is Sick While on Vacation
You are far from home and your pet is ill. What can you do? Even though a veterinarian in your vacation area is unfamiliar with your pet, don’t let that keep you from seeking medical care.
» Read More
-
3
Pet Friendly Travel Ideas
Pets are typically not allowed in amusement parks, don’t ski very well, don’t understand snorkeling and don’t consider lying on the beach to be a fun-filled day. Despite this, there are many relaxing and...
» Read More
-
4
Travel First-Aid Kit for Your Dog
As you head out for your vacation this summer, having a first aid kit already prepared makes sense – for both you and your dog. But before heading out, check to make sure all items are up-to-date and present....
» Read More
-
5
Traveling with Your Dog
There are countless ways to spend a vacation, but before you start making plans, you have to answer the big question: Do you take the dog with you or leave her at home?
» Read More
