Road Trips With Your Pet
Bringing your pet along on a road trip offers companionship and a chance to bond. However, when you're planning to travel during the summer, it's essential to ensure your pet's safety from the heat and other potential hazards. At Wooded Acres Animal Hospital in Middle Island, our veterinarians are here to provide you with tips to help you plan a safe road trip with your furry companion.
Keep Ample Water Available
Offer your pet water to drink consistently throughout your road trip. This helps maintain your pet's hydration, reducing the risk of heat stroke and dehydration. Carry a water bottle designed for dogs, along with cool bottles of water to refill it.
Provide Shade
On hot and sunny days, avoid having your pet sit next to the window during the journey. Instead, consider restraining your dog in the middle rear seat of your car or using a window shade. This precaution helps minimize your pet's risk of sunburn.
Avoid Hot Pavement
When making stops during your road trip, refrain from walking your pet on hot pavement. Excessively hot pavement can cause burns to your pet's paw pads. Opt for walking on grass, sidewalks, or pavement in shaded areas.
Use Flea and Tick Prevention
Protect your pet from flea infestations and tick bites during your road trip by utilizing preventative measures such as topical medications or collars. Our veterinarian can assist you in selecting the appropriate flea and tick prevention for your pet before you embark on your journey.
Update Vaccinations
Before setting off on a road trip, ensure your pet's vaccinations are up to date. Being in new environments, especially around other dogs, can elevate your pet's risk of illnesses like kennel cough and canine influenza. Vaccinations play a vital role in safeguarding your pet from such diseases.
Schedule Veterinary Care in Middle Island, NY Before You Travel
If you're planning a road trip with your pet, it's advisable to arrange a pre-trip appointment with Wooded Acres Animal Hospital. Our veterinarians in Middle Island can update your pet's vaccinations if necessary and ensure they are in good health for the journey ahead.