Safe Car Travel With Your Dog

Summer is here which means long rides to the cottage will be in full swing. Have you thought about how to safely travel with your dog?

Lets be clear, safe travel for your pet definitely does not include a ride in the bed of a pick up truck, nor half hanging out the car through an unrolled window. Owners beware, allowing your dogs to ride these way runs the risk of injury or death. Sudden braking  can send your dog out of the vehicle or from the back to the front. Flying stones and debris can cause injury. Curious pups may see something that piques their interest resulting in them jumping ship.

Having smaller pets lose in your vehicle or sitting on your lap is hazardous as well. Accidents may ensue if you are distracted by your dog, your dog gets in the way of your vision or prevents proper access to mirrors, break and gas pedals or your steering wheel.

To make sure your pet is safe during car travel consider the following:

Buy a doggie seat belt so your dog is secure should you need to stop quickly.

1. Consider placing smaller dogs in a crate that can be buckled into place preventing them from getting under your feet or in your way.

2. If you vehicle doesn't have air conditioning plan for frequent stops and bring water along for both of you to drink!

3. For dogs that are anxious travellers  consider speaking to your veterinarian about medication or herbal remedies to calm your dogs nerves on road trips.

4. Never leave your pet in your vehicle in the summer. Temperatures rise within minutes and may lead to heat stroke and death. If you can't stand being in there, neither can your dog!

Going away? How to protect your pet...

So, you're going away...whether it's a weekend, a week, or a month there are times when your pet  just can't come along for the trip. To make sure they are safe while you travel here's what you can do...

Find somewhere safe for them to stay

While your away you will feel much better knowing that your precious pooch is being cared for properly. Whether its a boarding kennel, a friend or family member, or an in home service caring for your dog make sure they are reputable, have experience and great references. If you're not sure where to go ask your Veterinarian for a recommendation.

Leave phone numbers

In the unfortunate event that you pet may require medical care, while you are away, make sure to leave lots of phone numbers for their caregiver.
Include numbers for where you can be reached, your veterinarian, the local after hours emergency clinic as well as and friends or family who can act as an emergency contact.

Also, in case they get out or away leave numbers for your local animal control shelter.

Give your vet a heads up

It's a great idea to call your vet before you leave and give them instructions on what you would like done should your pet need treatment. You may want to preauthorize the use and limit you would like to spend on your credit card as well as a direct contact number you can be reached at. You should also let them know who you are leaving in charge of your pet's care.

Contact your local animal control service

Before leaving for your trip make sure to contact your local animal control service and make sure your pet's license is up to date. You may also want to leave the contact number of the person caring for your pet while away. If they go missing your caregiver can easily be alerted to their whereabouts. If your pet has a microchip it is wise to notify them as well.

Leave a note and detailed instructions

Before you leave put everything in writing and sign it. In the event of an emergency your pet's caregiver will be happy to have the info in one spot for easy access.

Details should include : feeding and medication instructions, veterinary clinic details (name,phone number and address), animal control shelter info, your pet's license or microchip number, microchip company info, and your contact info while away.

Unique cat dish prevents dogs from getting cat's food

It's often the burden of pet owners that would like to have both a cat and dog. While feeding your cat at a higher location like the counter or laundry table may work for some, it's not the most ideal situation.Especially as your cat ages and finds jumping up a harder task.

The great news is there is now a cat dish on the market that can solve this situation. The dish allows cats to feed at ground level with a specially designed hood that prevents dogs from getting in the dish. No more cat food all over the place, a starving kitty or a pup with an upset stomach who ate something he shouldn't have.

Check out this great veterinarian designed dish now available online for purchase at www.felinesonly.ca

Salty dog paws

It's that time of year. We are in the midst of winter and not only is your skin dry and cracking but its quite likely your dogs pads on their paws may be too!

Winter is rough on pet's paws. With the cold surfaces and sharp icy edges on walkways their paws take a beating, and ice melter and salt can make for some uncomfortable feet.

Although, great at melting ice and snow and providing a place to walk, salt can burn the pads of your pets feet.

Not to worry though, walks are not out of the question. If you know you will be heading out in ice melter territory consider applying a protective salve to your pets pads before leaving to provide a barrier between their skin and the ice melter. Doggie boots like muttlucks can also be great for winter time walks. Not only will they protect your pet's feet from the elements they will also provide more traction on slippery surfaces. Local pet stores have a selection of both products with boots coming in various sizes.

In the meantime, when returning from a walk rinse your dogs feet and dry them well to remove any salt residue. You may want to consider using pet friendly ice melter on your own property.

If you notice your dogs pads are red,raw,inflammed, or they are licking at them, limping or seem painful consult your veterinarian for an exam to make sure medical intervention is not needed.