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36 The Courier SUN • pets • july 23, 2015 for breaking news visit www.queenscourier.com s pets ON THE ROAD WITH PETS By Tresa Erickson Some people regard their pets as family, and there is no way they would take a road trip without them. While it may not be easy, taking cats, dogs and other pets on the road is not impossible. Here are some tips to ease the hassle. Practice makes perfect Pets unaccustomed to riding in cars need to be acclimated to the situation long before you head out on a road trip. So, grab your cat, dog or bird and take them on some short trips around town. Be prepared for some noise, as most pets will not hesitate to let people know how uncomfortable they are. Preparation is key Take your pet to the vet for a mini checkup before you leave. Let your vet know where you are going and follow any recommendations they may have, like getting your pet vaccinated for Lyme disease if you’re going to a tickinfested area. Find pet-friendly hotels and call ahead to confirm that you are indeed bringing a pet. Make sure you ask about any rules or restrictions that may be in place regarding pets. Tags mater Pet collars are essential for identification and should list your cell phone number for all travels. That way, should your pet get lost and someone find them, they will be able to contact you. If your pet tends to lose their collar or cannot wear one, a microchip implant is ideal. Again, if your pet gets lost, rescue organizations will be able to scan them for the microchip and contact you. Safety is a must People are required by law to wear seatbelt restraints. The same should go for your pets. You don’t need the distraction of a kitten or puppy climbing all over the car. Use cages, carriers, crates and harnesses and take them with you on your practice runs. It will make for a smoother road trip later. Keep the car windows shut during your travels to prevent your pet from hanging their head outside and getting dirt and dust into their eyes, ears and nose, which could lead to an infection or injury. Pets have stuff too Don’t forget to pack it. Bring your pet’s favorite food and water bowls, toys and blankets. Bring enough food, water and treats to last throughout the trip. Bring a litter box for cats and waste bags for dogs. Bring some apparel too, if your pet can stand it. Pack a copy of your pet’s medical records as well, in case someone asks about their vaccinations or you need to see an out-of-town vet. Regular stops are a must Just as people need to stop on long car rides, so do most pets. With kittens and puppies, you will probably need to stop every two hours and with older animals every three hours. Make sure you use a leash when possible to prevent your pet from running away. Routine is important Pets get accustomed to eating, exercising and sleeping at a certain time every day. Try not to disrupt the routine on your travels, or you could wind up with a very unhappy pet. F`eed them small meals while traveling to avoid carsickness and regular sized meals at the hotel. Make sure they get plenty of water to drink to avoid dehydration. Stop for walks at the normal times and leave your pet be when they are resting. Taking pets on a road trip requires some time and effort, but it can be done. Keep in mind that not all pets are suited for travel. Fish, for example, are very difficult to move in their tanks, while some cats just will not take to a moving car. Take several practice runs, and if your pet continues to complain, consider leaving them at home. There are many pet sitting and boarding services available, if you don’t have a friend or relative willing to look after your pet for you. NORTH SHORE ANIMAL LEAGUE AMERICA ADOPT A PET AnimalLeague.org • 516.883.7575 • Port Washington, NY Photo by Ellen Dunn North Shore Animal League America Has Over 300 Unique Mixed breed & Purebred, Puppies, Kittens, Dogs and Cats! Open Daily for Adoptions SUN - THURS 10AM - 9PM FRI - SAT 10AM - 10PM FOLLOW US ON 25 Davis Ave Adoptions


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