Travelling with pets

Times Contributor 

 

While the weather is warm many families pack up and take off for a weekend, or longer, to make the most of the season. Often one of the members of those families is a pet; so Dr. Jodi Viste, of the Animal Care Centre of Strathmore, said there are some things owners of pets should be aware of ahead of time.

“First thing to be aware of is where you are taking your pets. There are provinces and states where there are parasites that can be hazardous to your pets. It is always a good idea to book an appointment with us prior to travel, so we can give them the appropriate medication that would protect their pets against things like Lyme disease, ticks and fleas and heartworm,” said Viste. “There are vaccines or medications to help with that.”

She said check your pet’s temperament while travelling.

“If you have a crate, take it with you when you travel. They will feel safer in an enclosed crate rather than loose and free in a car and it is most often safer for them and you; especially with cats or small dogs, as they might jump on you if they are loose in the car,” said Viste.

Drivers can be charged under the Alberta Traffic Safety Act 115(2) (i) if pets are loose and interfere with operation, or vision of the driver. 

Letting bigger dogs ride in the open back of the truck bed is not safe either; flying debris, loss of balance and the dog jumping out at high speed are things to consider. Statistics in the USA show 100,000 dogs killed while riding in backs of open vehicles. Instead, get a roomy crate, and secure the crate to the truck-bed, or consider an extended cab or screened area for you and your pet’s safety.

Viste said bringing along a favorite toy or blanket for the trip is also comforting to the animal. Similar to humans, there are medications to help animals with motion sickness or anxiety.

She advises frequent stops to let pets out, so plan to put extra time in your travel schedule for this. Once out of the car or motorhome, be sure to keep your pet on a leash, as you won’t want them to run away in unfamiliar territory. Water should be available, and Viste said it is normal for pets to drink more while travelling. 

If you leave your pet in the vehicle, there are some precautions to keep in mind. Temperature in the vehicle is important. If you are planning to stop for a meal in restaurant or stop in a store, you don’t want to leave your pet in the vehicle if you can help it. 

“Anything above 20 degrees (C) outside, it can get really warm in the vehicle within 15-20 minutes. Always crack a window and have water available,” said Viste.

Many trust too much to air conditioners, which have been known to quit in extreme heat, leaving the pet no relief.

Viste said to keep pets routines as normal as possible. Feed and walk them at the same time, if possible. Keep them away from unknown animals, as you don’t know the other animal’s health condition.

When you get to the destination, keep the pet in the crate, until they become accommodated to the surroundings, and the other pets of friends or family. Observe and supervise when you let them out and as they become adjusted to everything. 

Remember they are entering other animals territorial boundaries, so there may be some protective mechanisms from the other animals in play. Be careful not to let them eat foreign food or drink water from rivers or lakes, as it can have parasites as well.

On the topic of food, you cannot bring pet food across the border into the USA; speak with your veterinarian and they can issue a prescription for specialized food that will be allowed. 

Airlines often have specific kennel size limitations and just any old kennel will be rejected, so Viste recommends you contact the airline about their pet restrictions ahead of time.

If pets become ill while you are away, the Animal Care Centre of Strathmore staff can advise you via phone or help you find a veterinarian close to your location. 

Once you get back, Viste said don’t be amazed if your pet sleeps more than usual because like humans they are completely tired from all the activity they experienced on their summer adventure.