Clevengers Corner Veterinary Care

Q: What should I know before vacationing with my pet?According to a survey of pet owners by the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA), more than 53% of dog and cats will travel with their owners. Of the 4 major travel choices that Americans have, pets are not allowed to travel on half of them. According to the American Veterinary Medical Association (www.avma.org), pets are prohibited from traveling by bus or train in most states. That means that our friends will either be flying the friendly skies or rolling down the highway with us during our time away from home. In both cases, there are many simple things that pet owners can do to ensure their pet's comfort and safety during the trip.For pet owners preparing to travel by plane or car, a small amount of preparation and time can prevent future heartaches and frustrations. First, make sure that your pet has proper identification on her at all times. This can be something as simple as a tag on her collar, but more permanent identification is afforded by an implanted microchip. Next, make sure you have copies of vaccination records and needed medications easily accessible during the trip. If you will be travelling across state lines, federal and state laws require a current health certificate from an accredited veterinarian, usually within thirty days of travel. For pets that will be flying with their owners, good communication with the airlines is a must. In all cases, your four legged friend needs to be over 8 weeks old and weaned for at least 5 days. Most airlines will require the above mentioned health certificate and all recommend arriving at the airport early to insure the smooth check-in of your pet. Kennels that will be checked into the cargo area must be non-collapsible, large enough to allow the pet to stand and have a leak-proof bottom covered with absorbent material. Be sure to check the weather at home and at your destination. Some specific breeds and individual pets may not do well, especially during the warmer temperatures of summer. Airlines may refuse to transport pets if the temperature exceeds 85 degrees in the cargo hold or is less than 45 degrees anywhere along the itinerary. Many owners are very worried about the safety of their pets in flight and during boarding procedures. According to the website, www.dryfur.com, the majority of accidents and injuries that happen to pets are the result of poor quality carriers or kennels that are missing pieces. Again, a few moments of preparation by the owner can avoid a loss or death of their pet. And for those owners who have contemplated sedation for their pets, the answer is a resounding NO! The AVMA, and the American Humane Association both agree empathically that sedation during flight is a risk pet owners should not take. Traveling by car may be less complex than air travel, but due to the longer time frames, owners need to plan rest stops and exercise times for their animal companions. The AVMA recommends that you keep a jug of fresh water in the car for times when reliable water sources may not be available. Pets will travel better with small amounts of food and water in their system frequently rather than allowing the pet to eat his or her normal ration. They should be kept in carriers or cages during travel to avoid potential accidents if the pet gets "underfoot" of the driver. When you reach your destination, be sure that you are aware of pet-friendly hotels and campsites in the area. There are many sites online that can help you find lodging that allow pets. At www.petswelcome.com, over 25,000 hotels and other locations that allow pets are listed. For owners who will be camping with their dogs, be sure to use your veterinarian’s recommended parasite control to help avoid bringing home any unwanted guests. Just like their owners, pets are individuals. Some won't accept the changes that travel brings to their lives. For these pets, having the name of a good local boarding kennel or reliable pet sitter is probably a smarter idea. Online resources include the American Boarding Kennel Association (www.abka.com) and the National Association of Professional Pet Sitters (www.petsitters.org). As always, your family veterinarian has information about local facilities that he or she trusts with the care of your pet.

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