| Spring is here and with the onset of warm weather, comes more dog
shows and our annual vacations, plus the urge to take a Sunday drive. However,
we sometimes neglect the needs of our pets or do not take extra precautions for
unseen emergencies. If you cannot board your pet, or leave it at home and find
that you must take it with you please make sure you provide adequate ventilation
and water in your vehicle. Plus you should read up on heat stroke and heat prostration.
Below is a simple check list to ensure your pet is provided for under normal circumstances
and in the event of an emergency: - a comfortable crate or seatbelt
harness
- 2 leashes (your usual one and a spare)
- a spare collar
- ample
water for your pet, yourself and your vehicle
- a water dish
- your
pets first aid kit
- your first aid kit
- tools for your vehicle
- a
brush to remove brambles and ticks
- pet food (if canned, store in a cooler
if opened)
- toys to offset boredom (nothing worse than chewed upholstery)
- a
tarp for shade, or park in a shady area
- a copy of your pets vaccinations
and registration
- your veterinarians telephone number
- a picture
of your pet
- make sure your pet is very familiar with the commands sit,
stay, and come - a pet in an unfamiliar area can be nervous and may try to flee
- a
towel and/or blanket
- make sure your pet is up to date on vaccinations
I've traveled a fair amount in North America and have found we have given emergency
care to animals in the most unlikely spots: A mother cat and kittens in a campground
in Olympic National Park, an abandoned dog in a Texas highway rest area, a mother
dog and puppies in California. Plus there always seems to be someone at a dog
show who hasn't brought enough water. I've had dog collars get lost in brush and
leashes break on beaches. Seems like I'm never prepared enough myself for unforeseen
emergencies, but taking the above precautions does make the trip go a little more
peaceful. -------------------------------------------------
// ------------------------------------------------ Reprinted with permission
by Terrie Simpson |
