Road Trip With Rover

Is a trip to the vet your dog’s idea of a car ride? Broaden your friend's horizons, and lessen his neurosis, with mini-road trips.

If your dog only travels in the car to go to the vet or other angst ridden locations, start slowly, beginning with short trips to the dog park or to a friend’s house. Once your dog begins to associate the car with pleasant outings, increase the length of the ride.

Try not to feed your dog a few hours before you travel. A full stomach may intensify upset if your pet is prone to motion sickness. If your dog does exhibit signs of motion sickness, such as excessive drooling, park the car and go for a brief stroll.

Never leave your dog in your car unattended. This is especially true during the hot months when temperatures rise rapidly in a closed car. Even opening the window slightly does not allow sufficient air to circulate. Dogs left in hot cars can suffer heat stroke or even death.

Keep a few treats with you for the ride and give your pet a reward. Stopping for lunch at the drive through? Enjoy your meal while your pet enjoys her treat.

For warm days and longer trips, take along water for your dog to drink and a spray bottle filled with water for a quick pooch pick-me-up. Remember to pull over every few hours for a bathroom break and leg stretch.

If your dog insists on sticking his head out the window for the aux natural feel, make certain he is wearing goggles or secure eye protection.

Put your dog on his leash before exiting the car to help avoid quick uncontrolled escapes.

Buckle up. Invest in a dog harness, seat belt restraint, car seat or crate for your dog.

The doggie car booster seat from www.dogclothes-apparel.com is the perfect solution to safely satisfy your pet's natural urge to look out the window. The seat easily attaches to your car's passenger seat and includes an adjustable safety harness for for added protection.

Flying With Your Furry Friend

On the go? Many times we don’t want to leave our dog at home. Here are a few ways to make travel with your pet full of blue skies.

When reserving your ticket, tell the airline of your intentions to travel with your dog. Different airlines have different requirements, so it is always best to know what your specific airline requires. If you can, book early. Dogs under 15 lbs. may be able to accompany you in the cabin. Inquire if there is a limit to the number of pets permitted in the cabin per flight. Often, this limit is filled on a first come first serve basis.

Visit your vet. Most airlines want current medical certificates (10 days or less) stipulating that your dog is in good health to fly and is current on all inoculations. If your dog is nervous, ask your vet about sedatives.

Avoid placing any food in the crate. Not only can it get messy, eating may cause your pet to have an upset stomach.

Bring a current photograph of your dog with you. If he gets lost, having a photo can make the search easier.

Label, label, label. Place information and identification on everything. Make certain your dog has a collar with your current address and telephone number. Write your name, your dog’s name, your address, and phone number on the outside of the crate in which your dog is traveling.

When booking your flight, always travel on the same flight as your dog and look for direct flights to your destination to avoid missed connections or delays. Try not to fly midday when the weather is hotter.

Walk you dog immediately before boarding the plane and after you land to avoid accidents.

Carry your leash with you and not in the crate. Keeping the leash on your dog in the crate could cause a choking hazard for your pet.

If your dog is traveling in Class D (the area for baggage and live animals), make certain there is proper ventilation.

Your dog will always be prepared to travel with the Puppia Pouch II Hoodie from www.dogclothes-apparel.com . This adorable cotton sleeved striped hoodie is finished in broad matching trim and matching hood. The detachable backpack is perfect for all your dog's valuables and treats and is decorated with a gold crown. Available in Pink, Navy and Violet.