by Hilary Baxter

Created on: November 02, 2008   Last Updated: November 24, 2008

Summer may be over but plenty of families are just getting ready to hit the road. And It would hardly be fair to leave the faithful dog behind. Yes, family vacations can be fun for one and all. But for the animal travelers certain precautions are needed to keep the trip from turning tragic.

Nothing would ruin a vacation like loosing your best friend. It is important to keep animals restrained when traveling. At rest areas, leash your dog. Even a normally off-lead dog might panic and dart into traffic. Travelers should bear in mind that hotel staff may open an unattended room, giving a feline guest a chance to take a tour of their own. If your pet will be staying alone in a hotel be sure you notify the staff. the safest option is to cage your pet in a secure crate. his can prevent damage to the room and may help to comfort your pet.

Whether crossing the globe or just a few state lines, pet owners should remember that temperature changes can be extremely hard on animals. Many animals may be extremity uncomfortable if temperatures range outside their norm. After all would you wear a fur coat in Florida? It goes with out saying that you should NEVER leave a pet in the car. Temperatures, even on nice days can become hot enough to kill.

Unfortunately many responsible pet owners forgo necessary veterinary preparations for travel. Prepare for you pet like you do for yourself. If your pet requires medication, be sure to bring enough and extra. It is also necessary to predict potential problems. Ask your vet for allergy medication and additional flea protection before traveling. Alternately contact a veterinarian in the local area before yo leave home. It is always good to familiarize yourself with emergency pet clinics at you destination and en route.

Of course specific destinations incur specific risks. If taking a beach vacation be certain that you dog does not drink sea water. Most dogs won't, but even a small amount can cause brain damage. When hiking ask local authorities about wildlife and follow their guidelines.

Remember pets are passengers, not cargo. They need water, food and rest stops. With consideration and proper planning the entire family can have the time of their lives.

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