Ask Dr. Dave - Travel Tips
Now that we are in the midst of
vacation season, several people have asked for some tips to help their
pet sitters if need be. Most things are no brainers.
Don’t change the animal’s diet right
before you leave, make sure that the pet sitter knows your animal’s
routine so that minimal changes are made, leave enough medication for
those pets that need medication, I.D. is up to date, water containers
are intact, and poisons and other hazards are stored safely. It also
doesn’t hurt to have a back up in case something should happen to your
pet sitter.
Emergency numbers should be left
including your veterinarian’s number and location as well as that of the
emergency clinic. Leaving your evacuation info in case of fire is also a
good idea. Consider letting your veterinarian’s office know that you are
going out of town. Leaving signed permission to treat your animal as
needed or, granting permission to euthanize your animal should it be
necessary, is something that most people don’t want to think about but,
they should. If that should have to happen, leave info as to what you
would like done with your pet’s remains. If you do not want your animal
treated, that should be in writing as well.
When traveling with your animal, bring plenty of their food and the
water that they are used to drinking or, give them bottled water while
you are traveling. Make sure that their vaccines are up to date (many
states require proof of rabies vaccine in camping areas). If traveling
to another state, find out what other vaccines or preventatives (heart
worms and lyme disease are prevalent in other areas) may be required in
that area.
If your pet has had recent health
issues, it doesn’t hurt to have copies of their vet records with you.
Your veterinarian may also be able to provide you with information on a
reputable animal hospital in the area that you are traveling in. Again,
make sure that I.D. is up to date and, having pictures of your pet in
case it should get away in a strange area isn’t a bad idea.
Dr. David Gantenbein
Antelope Valley Animal Hospital
661 273-1234
Need assistance?