Preparing Your Dog For A Holiday Road Trip with guest Blogger Dr Katrina Warren

With the holiday season upon us, more Aussies than ever before are taking road trips and nothing is more fun than when the furry members of the family are invited along too.

Taking your dog on a holiday can be a wonderful experience but careful preparation is important to ensuring the whole family has a safe and healthy time. Here are my top tips for a safe and happy road trip with your dog

Prior to departure

• Make sure your pet’s microchip details are up to date with your current contact details. Ensure they are also wearing a collar with an ID tag engraved with your mobile phone number so you can be contacted quickly should they become lost.
  
  
• Book in a visit with your vet for a check up to make sure your dog’s vaccinations, worming and flea treatments are up to date.
  
  
• If you are travelling to a coastal destination, phone ahead to the local vet at your destination and ask if paralysis ticks are prevalent in the area. Paralysis ticks are deadly and you need to start preventative treatment prior to departing for your holiday.
  
  
• Pack some home comforts including their own bed and favourite toys. Avoid tummy upsets caused by dietary changes by taking pack your pet’s normal food. Don’t forget to pack any medication and preventative treatments for ticks and fleas.
  
  
• If you’re heading somewhere coastal and your dog will be swimming be sure to pack some fun water toys for them to play with and swim towels for drying your pet. And don’t forget to take a supply of poo bags, you can’t always rely on them being provided in the places you’ll visit.

On the road

• When travelling in a car, dogs should be restrained by seatbelt or harness, confined in a crate or behind a grill. This prevents them from becoming a flying missile if you have an accident. DOOG have a range of harnesses that can be used with a seat belt attachment.
  
  
• Stop every couple of hours for water and toilet breaks. Make sure your dog is attached to a lead when you let them out of your car in an unfamiliar environment. It is very useful to have your own water supply and bowl so you are able to stop anywhere for a break. The DOOG 3 in 1 is a water bottle and dog bowl in one with added insulator keeping your water cool and perfect for when you travel.

On arrival

• When you arrive at your destination keep your pet confined indoors. Many pets get lost on holidays and you can’t be too careful. Be sure to keep your dog on a leash for the first couple of days whenever you are in a new area.
  
  
• Check carefully that the property is secure, dogs have a knack for finding hidden holes in fences.

Wishing you all safe and happy travels!

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