Traveling With Fido

Are you planning to take your canine friend on some fun excursions this summer? Dogs love exploring, and can actually make great travel buddies. However, you will want to take some precautions to keep Fido happy, healthy, and safe on your journey. Read on as an Ellicott City, MD veterinarian offers some advice on traveling with Fido.

Preparations

Make sure that Fido is microchipped, wearing ID tags, and up to date on all of his vaccinations and parasite control products. You may need to show proof of this, so bring his records with you. If you’re driving, keep copies in your glove box. You can also take pictures of them on your phone, or email them to yourself.

Packing

Don’t forget to pack a bag for your pooch. Fido will need food, treats, toys, dishes, bedding, a spare leash and collar, and any medication he’s taking. You may also want to pack a towel. We recommend bringing a first aid kit along as well. It’s also not a bad idea to bring some of the water that your furry friend usually drinks, especially if he has a sensitive stomach.

The Trip

Always keep Fido crated for travel. It’s much safer for both of you! Put comfy bedding and toys in the crate to make it cozy. You may see doggy seat belts advertised, but check reviews carefully, and choose ones with high safety ratings. Also, keep in mind that many of these products don’t give your furry pal much freedom to change positions, which can get uncomfortable on long trips. Once you’re on the road, stop every few hours to let your canine buddy relieve himself and sniff some unfamiliar grass.

Reservations

Always confirm your dog’s reservations in advance, and find out whether he will be allowed to stay with you the whole time. You don’t want to discover at the last minute that your Aunt Liz expected Fido to stay in the yard! It may also be helpful to print out a list of pet-friendly hotels along your route. Call in advance, and get specifics on policies and fees. That way, if you end up stopping earlier or later than you expected, you won’t be stuck at the last minute looking for lodging. Please reach out to us, your Ellicott City, MD vet clinic, for all your dog’s veterinary care needs. We are here to help.