Traveling cross-country with your dog needs thorough preparation.
Traveling cross-country with your dog can be a challenging yet rewarding experience. According to the ASPCA, traveling with a pet can be highly stressful, but with a little thoughtful preparation your trip can be safe and comfortable for everyone. Ensure your cross-country trip with your dog is a success by planning and preparing extensively ahead of time.
Instructions
1. Take your dog to your local veterinarian's office for a health screening before heading off on your cross-country trip together. Your dog may need certain vaccinations or shots before being permitted to travel cross-country.
2. Plan hotel/motel reservations beforehand. If you plan on staying in a hotel or motel during your trip, you need to know ahead of time which establishments are pet-friendly. You can find pet-friendly lodgings online at the petswelcome.com website.
3. Gather all required pet equipment necessary. You will need a sturdy dog crate, dog food, toys, a dog bed, a pet first aid kit, food and water bowls, a leash and a collar or harness with proper identification tags. According to the American Kennel Club, the identification tags should include your dog's name, your name, and your home phone number or cell phone number as well as proof of rabies shots.
4. Introduce your dog to the crate ahead of time. According to the American Kennel Club, using a crate is an excellent way to keep your dog safe and happy while traveling--as long as it's large enough to allow the dog to stand, turn and lie down and has the proper ventilation holes on each side of the crate. Place the crate in a safe, quiet area in your home and leave it open so your dog can become familiar or accustomed to it. You can purchase dog crates at pet stores.
5. Put a dog bed and a few of your dog's favorite toys in the crate before placing your dog into the crate. Dogs can become bored very easily when traveling--therefore, your dog will need plenty of toys to keep him happy and occupied throughout the cross-country trip.
6. Stop every few hours for potty and exercise breaks. Dogs, like humans, need regular breaks to relieve themselves. Dogs also need regular spurts of activity, like walking or running, to stay healthy and happy during travel.
7. Feed your dog on a regular schedule and provide plenty of fresh water for your dog throughout the cross-country trip. Feeding and watering your dog on a strict schedule will help keep your dog's potty breaks on a regular schedule.
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