Traveling with your pet….

• When traveling by car you need to determine if your pet is comfortable riding in a car. To determine how comfortable your pet is, start by taking him/her on short rides.
• Note: If your pet does not ride well, boarding your pet is best.  Remember to contact the boarding facility for reservations and regulations including required vaccines.

The safest way to transport your pet while driving…

• Dogs – Use a carrier that is well ventilated and out of the direct sun or you can use a car approved safety harness.
• Cats – Always use a carrier that is well ventilated and out of the direct sun to avoid accidents such as cats under your feet.

Leaving your pets in a parked car….

• Never leave your pet in a parked car during warm months.  Temperatures in a parked car can rise to over 100 degrees in a few minutes. Heat and insufficient circulation can lead to heat stroke, suffocation and even death.
• Brachycephalic (short nosed) dogs do not expel heat as efficiently as other dogs so they become a greater risk for heat stroke.
• There are products on the market to help with heat such as crate dishes for water, crate fans and covers to resist heat but allows air movement.  Even though these products are available it is still recommended to never leave your pet in a parked car during warm months.

Signs of Heat Stroke and what to do….

Taking these simple measures can make a big difference for your pet. If your pet reaches a body temperature of 104 degrees F or above you will most likely see signs of potential heat stroke.  Watch for these signs;

• Extreme panting
• Labored breathing
• Gums or eye membranes become a bright red
• Highly fatigued
• Possible collapse and unconsciousness
• Potential seizures

If any of these signs are presented, get your pet out of the heat immediately and into the shade.  Use cool wet towels to bring down his/her temperature.  If possible, place him in a tub of cool (NOT COLD) water.  Seek medical attention as soon as possible. Heat stroke is very serious and should be considered an emergency.

More traveling tips….

• Always use a leash before letting your dog out of a car.
• Have proper identification on your pet.
• Avoid long exposure to hot pavement.
• Provide fresh drinking water.
• Feed your pet 3 hours prior to travel to decrease digestive upset.
• If traveling by air, contact the airline for regulations for pet travel including required vaccines.