- Avoid giving your pet food or water for about two hours before leaving. This will reduce the chances of an accident during the early stages of the trip. Bring a container of water from the home tap. Animals can easily tell the difference between water from home and water from a gas station. Only feed your pets once a day. The stress of traveling will curtail their appetites, and forcing them to eat may lead to stomach upset or worse.
- Your pet should be in a carrier, such as a kennel, while traveling, not running loose in the car or moving van. The kennel should have enough room for your pet to stand up, lie down and turn around. Line the bottom of the kennel with an absorbent lining in case of accidents. Make sure your pets become used to their carriers before the trip date. Place a bed and some toys in the carrier to make it a safe and comfortable place rather than frightening and strange.
- Your animals won't enjoy being in a kennel in the back seat of your car all day. They will likely become scared or uncomfortable because of the close quarters. Stop every few hours and allow your pets to walk around. Interstate rest stops typically have walking areas for dogs and other pets on a leash. Cats usually require training before they will tolerate leashes and collars. Call ahead and locate hotels that allow pets in the rooms and plan your route accordingly.
- Dogs, cats and other animals often experience high levels of stress when on the road. If you're also feeling anxiety, your four-legged companions can sense this. Plan the trip well ahead of time and prepare for the unexpected. Know who to call and what to do if the vehicle breaks down in hot or cold weather. Some animals will suffer from crippling panic when placed into a vehicle. In cases of severe anxiety, talk with a veterinarian about mild sedatives that may ease the transition for your pet.
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