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Summer Holidays and Your Pet
 
Many pets are given up at vacation time because of perceived inconvenience.  Thousands of pets who were left with "pet sitters" are lost each year.  A little forethought would have prevented it.  Here are a few helpful hints about holidays and how to make them safe and enjoyable for your pet.
 
If you leave your pet behind...
  1. The live-in Pet and Planet Sitter is ideally a relative or friend who knows your pet(s) (or gets to know them before you leave and will be with them most of the day).  Before you go, leave an adequate supply of food, grooming instructions, exercise routine, vet and humane society's phone numbers and a photograph of your pet (in the event your pet strays away from home).  If possible, leave your itinerary and phone numbers.  Make sure your pet is wearing a collar and tag, is tattooed and has had all vaccinations.  Phone your sitter a couple of times to check things out.
  2. The Drop-In Neighbour may agree to stop by each day to feed, water and exercise your pet.  Make sure you entrust this duty to a responsible person who is bondable and trustworthy.  Get references.
  3. A Boarding Kennel can be an excellent assurance of top quality care, but it can be a psychological shock to your pet to be in strange surroundings.  Visit the kennel and check for the following;
    Do they provide indoor/outdoor runs?  Are the cages clean and large enough for your pet?
    Is water available at all times?
    Are the kennels properly heated/ventilated?
    Do the animals bark, seem content and come to see you when you walk along?
    Do the kennel owners insist on all vaccinations?
    How often will your pet receive exercise?  What kind of exercise?
    Do they have available veterinary services?
    Is someone on the premises day and night?
    What is employee treatment of the animals like?
If you take your pet with you...
  1. BY CAR:  If your pet is not used to traveling in the car, take  them for a few short rides before vacation time.  The pet should have a pleasant experience such as a hike, or a treat, at the end of these shorter jaunts, so that car travel becomes associated with reward.
    Do not let your pet hang their heads out the window.  This often causes damage to the eyes or ears.
    Keep complete pet identification and rabies tag on your dog or cat at ALL times.  Carry current health and vaccination certificates.
    Do not leave your pet in the car during warm weather, even if the windows are open.  The heat can kill them in a very short time.
    Book your accommodations in advance.  For a complete listing of pet-accepting hotels, motels, or campgrounds, contact a local travel bureau.
    Do not leave your pet alone in a hotel room without familiar toys, bedding, and crate.
    Bring a "pet carrier" if traveling with a cat or other small animal.  Let them become familiar with the carrier before you leave home.
    Do not feed your pet for a few hours before the trip.  Bring along fresh cool water and a familiar water bowl.
    Allow for exercise breaks during long trips.  They're good for you and your pet... be sure to keep all animals on harnesses/collars and leashes!
     
  2. BY AIR:  Air travel is of most concern when taking pets on vacation.  However, you can minimize the chances of an unpleasant experience.
    Contact the airline well in advance to check regulations and services.
    Ask about other cargo on your flight and placement of the cage.
    Feed your pet a light meal at least 6 hours before departure.
    Try to schedule a flight so that there are a minimum of stops and transfers.  Choose early morning or late evening flights during warm weather.
Your Pet Packing List...... when you just can't leave home without your pet.
Kennel/carrier
Vaccination papers
Health certificate
Collar/harness
Leash
ID tag
License tag
A recent photo of your pet
Un-spillable water and food bowls
Water bottle in the car
Food 
Can opener
Snacks and Treats
Medication if any
Bedding
Brush and Comb
Shampoo or cleaner
Toys
Scoop and plastic bags
Litterbox, litter, liners
Paper towels
Air freshener

(Reproduced with permission from the
Toronto Humane Society's Animal Talk Newsletter.)

 

 
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