January 2nd is National Pet Travel Safety Day!
National Pet Travel Safety Day is a holiday devoted to safe travels with your pets, whether by car, plane, train, boat, or bike. Because the holiday falls on January 2, it is the perfect New Year’s resolution to prepare for a safe and fun-filled year of making memories with your pets in new destinations.
Here are some important tips to make sure your pets are secure on the move:
- Secure your pets in a carrier while driving. A loose dog in a vehicle can become a projectile in an accident, even a low-speed one. You also want a pet restrained in case it runs off in fear after an accident.
- Consider calming aids. If your dog is a nervous traveler, speak to your vet about calming medications or supplements before your trip.
- Keep pets in the backseat. Large dogs can come close to the weight that will trigger the airbags in the event of an accident, which can be extremely dangerous for your dog. Keep them in the backseat.
- Do not feed your pet in a moving vehicle. This may result in your pet getting sick. Instead, feed your pet 3-4 hours before you leave.
- Have a travel bag. Along with your luggage, you should have supplies for your pet that are easy to access at stops. Pack food and water, bowls, poop bags, toys, treats, extra blankets or crate pads, and extra collars, leashes, or harnesses.
- Include proper identification. If you are planning a long trip with your dogs, make sure they are microchipped and wearing a collar with an ID tag. Include a temporary tag that has information about your route and contact information. This is essential if your pet is lost on the trip. Microchipping is essential, as collars can be removed or may come off.
- Get a health certificate. Ask your vet for a health certificate which may be required in some travel. Also bring along your pet’s shot records.
And, most of all enjoy your travels with your pet companion!!
Source: TheVetDesk.com & ASPCA