Traveling With Fido

The holidays are coming up fast! Are you planning to travel to spend time with loved ones, or perhaps enjoy a vacation? If so, you may want to take your canine buddy with you. Fido loves exploring new places! However, he also has a tendency for mischief. You’ll need to take some precautions to keep your pup safe during your travels. A New Orleans, LA vet offers some advice on this below.

Documentation

Make sure that Fido is current on his vaccines and parasite control. If you’re going to a different climate, ask your vet if there are any additional vaccines they may recommend. Take copies of your furry friend’s paperwork with you. You can keep hard copies in your glove box, or store digital ones on your phone or in the cloud.

ID

Fido should be microchipped and wearing ID tags even when you aren’t traveling. Make sure that your information is current! You may also want to get your canine pal a collar with GPS tracking. Do some research before buying, as there are different ones available.

Packing

Fido will need food, toys, treats, bedding, dishes, a leash, a collar or harness, towels, a first-aid kit, and any medication he’s taking. You may also want to bring a brush and/or pet wipes. Going to a cold climate? Pups with thin coats will also need sweaters.

Driving

We always recommend keeping pets crated for travel. It’s safer for both of you! You can make Fido’s carrier comfy by adding bedding and a few of his favorite toys. Be sure to stop regularly to let him out. This can be a great time to explore a pretty new trail.

Accommodations

If you’re staying at a hotel, make sure that you are clear on their requirements for pets. You don’t want to find out at the last minute that your Saint Bernard is far larger than their size limits allow! It’s also a good idea to find out about fees, so you don’t get any surprises.

Settling In

When you get to your new spot, immediately take your furry best friend for a long walk. That way, you and Fido can learn the lay of the land together. That’s the best part of traveling with dogs! Do you have questions or concerns about your dog’s health or care? Contact us, your New Orleans, LA animal hospital, today!