Blog Post

As I sit here to write this, I am reminiscing about the many travels that I have had over the years with my family; pets included. My father was in the military, which meant that we travelled a lot. On more than one occasion, it was our whole family packed into the station wagon for one of those long road trips in the middle of a hot summer. Now I do this with my own family and furry kids. The main thing that I have learned from these adventures is that you need to be prepared and to be flexible because you just can’t predict what may happen!

Make sure your pets have a collar or harness with current rabies tags, ID and contact information. Have a current photo of them with you. Having your pet microchipped is also a great idea, as this information can’t be lost. Be sure to update your information with the microchip company before leaving. Keep your pets vaccine records up to date, and for dogs, it wouldn’t hurt to have them vaccinated against kennel cough just in case the need arises.

Are going to be traveling long distance? Make sure to plan for bathroom, water/food breaks and time to stretch. You know your pets, and know what their limitations are. Be sure to watch for cues that they are uncomfortable or need to have a potty break. Make sure your vehicle is at a comfortable temperature and that your radio isn’t too loud for their sensitive ears. As part of your trip plan you should have a list of veterinary clinics along the route with contact numbers in case of emergency. In this day and age of the smart phone, this information is just a touch away; it still wouldn’t hurt to have a hard copy list.

If you’re going to be stopping overnight at a hotel/motel or campsite call ahead to insure they are pet friendly and don’t have size, type or any breed restrictions. The last thing you want to be doing after a long day on the road is search for somewhere to stay when all you want to do is rest.

Here are some Canadian websites that may be helpful:

http://www.petfriendly.ca/

http://www.ontariospca.ca/what-we-do/humane-education/companion-animals/fact-sheets/travelling-safely-with-your-pet.html

Does your trip involve crossing the border?
It is always advised to check what the current regulations are well in advance. Dogs and cats must have had rabies vaccines at least 30 days prior to entry into the U.S. Remember; sometimes the simple things such as an open bag of pet food (which could be confiscated) or improper documentation can create big problems. Having to find a veterinary clinic or pet food store that caries your pets particular brand of food can be overwhelming. Having to cancel your plans because your pet is not able to cross the border can be disappointing. Check out these sites for some helpful information:

http://www.ovma.org/pet_owners/travelling_with_pet/index.html

http://www.cdc.gov/animalimportation/dogs.html

https://help.cbp.gov/app/answers/detail/a_id/55/~/pets---dogs,-rabies-vaccines

http://www.petswelcome.com/

Things you may want to bring on a road trip: