Summer Travel: Is Your Pet Ready?

Summer Travel: Is Your Pet Ready?

               With COVID restrictions finally easing and a nationwide decline in cases, many people are wanting a well-deserved break and are starting to travel again.  Whether you are taking your pet with you, boarding or using a pet-sitter, here are some helpful tips as south-central Pennsylvanians get back out there this summer!

               Veterinary hospitals are still experiencing an unusually high volume of appointments and emergencies due to the normally busier summer season as well as changes and backlog due to the pandemic.  Make boarding arrangements as soon as you know your travel dates and call early to schedule routine veterinary visits to ensure pets are up to date on important vaccinations required for boarding such as rabies and Bordetella.  Don’t wait until the last minute—Patton and many other veterinary hospitals may have a four week wait or longer for routine wellness appointments.  Keep a list of all your pet’s medications, vaccinations and any health issues handy to take to the kennel and make sure you have a full supply of any drugs your pet needs while you are away.  Provide emergency contact information in case your pet becomes ill in your absence. 

               If your pet is staying home with family or a pet-sitter (or if he or she is traveling with you), consider having him or her microchipped if your pet does not already have this type of permanent identification. In the event your pet would slip away and become lost, it’s the best chance of him being reunited with your family.  Be sure to register your pet’s microchip with your contact information as well as an emergency contact.  If someone is watching your pet for you make sure you have stocked up on any food, supplies or medications before you leave.  You can also allow a friend or family member to make medical decisions for your pet in your absence by providing a letter to your vet stating said person has this authority.

               If your pet is traveling with you, pack plenty of supplies, a first aid kit if possible, and copies of any important documents-rabies certificate, pertinent medical history, a photo of you and your pet.  If flying or traveling internationally, you will likely also need a health certificate for your pet.  Contact your vet as soon as possible so she can ensure your pet has the proper vaccinations and documentation for your trip.  Requirements vary by country and some have strict rules on timing of vaccination and specific parasite control schedules. Don’t get caught last minute, especially with potential delays and stricter guidelines for travel due to COVID-19.

               If you’re planning to take your dog to a beach, lake, park or campground, do your research BEFORE arrival to ensure that the location allows dogs (other than service animals). If you are hiking or visiting a park or beach, be sure to clean up after your pet. No one likes to step in dog poo! Keep your pet leashed at all times in parks or campgrounds and make sure you can directly supervise your pet on the beach and that he or she is well behaved. 

Use common sense on hiking trails—don’t set out on a five mile trek with a dog who barely leaves your backyard.  Both you and your pet need to be physically able to complete the trail. If your dog becomes injured, tires out or overheats, you may need to carry your canine friend back to safety. Consider packing a first aid kit for your pet and locate an area vet or emergency clinic before travel in case of a run in with wildlife such as a snake or porcupine, contact with poisonous plants or plants that may cause injury like cactus, or a medical issue such as an injured paw or heat stroke.  Carry plenty of clean water for both you and your pet. Ponds and streams may contain harmful parasites, bacteria or toxic algae so don’t let your pet drink from these sources.

We’re all ready to explore the great outdoors again.  With a little advanced planning, your pets will be ready for a stay at a boarding facility or for a safe journey along with their owners.  Patton Veterinary Hospital wishes everyone happy and safe summer travels!

This blog brought to you by the Patton Veterinary Hospital serving Red Lion, York and the surrounding communities.

https://www.southpa.aaa.com/explore/summer-2021/taking-your-pet-travelers-great-outdoors