It’s wise to tuck the vet’s phone number into your luggage. However, an ounce of prevention is still worth a pound of cure. To keep Rover healthy on the road, stick to her regular diet as much as possible. Sudden changes can upset the system and this is no time to be dealing with doggy diarrhea. (Believe me: I’ve been there, done that!) Unless you use a widely-available brand of food, pack a supply. Tote a couple of gallons of water from home, too, along with collapsible serving dishes.
For the sake of your pet’s mental health, prepare a “mobile home” complete with familiar bedding and favorite toys. Since dogs instinctively find comfort in den-like surroundings, a crate is the logical choice. If you haven’t bought one yet, look for a sturdy, well-ventilated model that is large enough for the animal to comfortably stand, turn, and lie down in (though not so big that she’ll bounce around if it is mishandled). Next, give her ample time to grow accustomed to it.
Tails of The Open Road
Driving is the preferred way to go—provided you show some restraint. Letting your pooch loose in a moving car creates unnecessary distractions and, in an accident, can prove dangerous to all concerned (including any poor sot who comes to your rescue!). Small ones may stay crated, while larger ones can be secured with a harness snapped into the seatbelt. Back when I had two sheepdogs, I installed a special screen to turn the rear of my SUV into a pen, and this remains an alternative for people with super-sized breeds.
As for the other big car-related concern—extreme temperatures—you already know the drill. During the dog days of summer, parked vehicles rapidly heat up to lethal levels (yes, even in the shade with windows slightly open) and critters that regulate their body temperature by panting rather than perspiring are often unable to adjust. So never leave yours in the car unattended. Instead, when you take a break, give your four-legged friend one as well.
Look for grassy areas where she can “do her business” and get bit of exercise (this may help make her drowsy). And offer just enough water to keep her hydrated (guzzling is a no-no because it can lead to car sickness). Experts advise that she be leashed at break-time. But it’s still important to outfit your dog with ID tags noting where you can be contacted both at home and on the road in case she bolts. If worse comes to worse, it is also helpful to have a current photo to make tracking her down easier.
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