Traveling with your Pets

 It’s time to start thinking about summer travel plans. Many people are taking trips this summer and I get quite a few questions about vacationing with pets this time of year. There are a few things to think about when globe trotting with Fluffy and Fido.
1. First, think about how well your furry friends travel. Animals who get car sick or stressed when away from home might do better with a pet sitter at home. That being said, most pets love to accompany their owners on their adventures!
2. When driving, remember to never leave pets in a hot car when you make a rest stop or fill up at the gas station. Cars can heat up quickly and animals have limited means of cooling themselves. This can prove deadly, even for a fast 5-10 minute pit stop.
3. Make sure your dog or cat has a collar with ID tags in case they get lost on the road. A microchip is a good idea so that you can be reunited even if a collar falls off.
4. If you are flying with your pet, or if you are traveling internationally, you will likely need a health certificate signed by an accredited veterinarian. Check with a pet travel company, the USDA website (www.aphis.usda.gov), or your veterinarian to discuss travel requirements for your animals. Plan ahead, some of the requirements can take weeks to months of preparation depending on your destination.
5. Remember to take copies of your pet’s vaccinations and bring any medications they are taking. Bring plenty of their regular food. Sudden diet changes can cause vomiting or diarrhea in some animals.
6. Think about hazards specific for your vacation destination. If you are camping in the woods, there may be an increase in fleas or ticks in those locations and it would be good to have your dogs on a flea and tick preventative before you go. If there are mosquitoes, you need to have your pets on a heartworm preventative if they are not on one routinely.
Summer is a great time for travel, and your critters would really enjoy the chance to explore new environments on your next camping trip or beach vacation. Have fun!
Stevenson Ranch Veterinary Center is located at 25832 Hemingway Ave. in Santa Clarita.  For more information, please call 661-799-0655 and visit www.srvc.com