Pet's Pack Suitcase As Travel Trend Takes Off
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Media release: 15 November, 2011
Pet's Pack Suitcase as Travel Trend Takes off
As the Christmas holidays begin to approach it's time to plan the family getaway and it seems leaving Fido behind has become a thing of the past as a growing number of Australians pack their bags, load the car and take their pets along for the ride.
Managing director at VetShopAustralia.com.au, Dr Mark Perissinotto, said that it was great to see pet owners including the family pet on holiday adventures but it was also very important to be well prepared to ensure pets remain safe and have as much fun as everyone else while on vacation.
“Christmas is when families like to spend time together and with pets now commonly seen as an extra family member it’s no surprise that pet owners want to take their furry friend along too when holidaying. It is very important though for owners to be responsible and follow a few simple guidelines when travelling with pets,” he said.
Dr Perissinotto suggested that to begin with make sure the accommodation you book and the area you are planning to visit is guaranteed to be pet friendly and that travelling to your destination won’t cause your pet too much discomfort.
"Double check with accommodation providers that your pet is welcome and that the surrounding area is also pet friendly, equipped with dog beaches or dog parks so they can have some fun too. Make sure you also enquire about any dangers that you need to be aware of during your stay," he said.
"If you are visiting a high risk area for ticks, make sure you pack extra protection for your pet and that their regular flea, tick and worming treatments are all up to date. Having a number ready for the local vet is also a good idea in the off chance of an emergency."
Dr Perissinotto wanted to remind pet owners that long car rides can take their toll on animals, so to be considerate and help make the drive as easy for them as possible.
"When taking a pet in the car on long distances be certain they are properly restrained so they can’t distract the driver or cause injury to themselves. Also be sure to regularly make toilet stops and exercise breaks along the way"
Here are VetShopAustralia.com.au’s top ten pet travel tips to help ensure a safe and stress free journey.
- Establish good travel behaviour while your pet is young
- Ensure your pet is safely restrained in a dog harness or cat basket.
- Stop for toilet and exercise breaks and keep your dog on a lead to prevent them running away and causing accidents.
- Never leave your pet un-attended in a parked car as temperatures can reach lethal limits very quickly, even on overcast days.
- Have your pet micro chipped and use a collar and nametag complete with contact phone number.
- Take a travel kit containing the dog’s regular food, spare collar, leash, portable water bowl, grooming equipment, towels, flea treatment, a first aid kit, toys and poo bags.
- Consult your veterinarian about car sickness medication if necessary.
- Visit your vet prior to departure to ensure vaccinations are up to date and your pet is fit and healthy for travel.
- Research pet-friendly accommodation on the internet and check with the accommodation providers directly about their particular rules.
- Spend as much time as possible with your dog for the first couple of days away to help them relax and feel comfortable.
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ENDS
Further information
Media Contact: Jemma Lenton 07 5453 4840
Jemma.lenton@vetshoponline.com
Address: 5/42 Owen Creek RD. Forest Glen QLD
Go to the Dr Mark bio page for more information about Dr Mark Perissinotto.