Keeping Your Pets Safe While Travelling
Now that spring is here, it’s time to start planning those summer road trips. If you’re like me, not only do you have to plan your vacation around your children, you also need to think about your pets.
Many families will try to find a pet sitter and avoid bringing their pets on a trip altogether. However, travelling with your pets is possible. The Ontario SPCA Provincial Education & Animal Centre (PEAC) in Newmarket provides some tips on keeping your pets happy on a trip.
It’s important to remember that every animal is different and has unique personalities. For example, some dogs love riding in the car while others would rather stay indoors. Remember, the dream vacation for your pet may differ from yours.
However, let’s assume that your pet loves the outdoors and is willing to hit the open road. Make sure to pack for your pet like you would for your children. Bring lots of food, as well as their dishes, toys, leashes and bedding.
Travelling by car? Make sure to keep your pet behind the driver. This will reduce distracted driving. PetSmart and other stores offer special harnesses for dogs that attach to the seatbelt for extra safety.
I recently wrote a post on “Navigating the summer roads in Ontario”, recommending to take frequent stretch breaks on long trips to help keep the driver alert and to promote blood circulation. The same can be said for animals. Plan breaks along the route for your dog to refuel with fresh water, food, exercise and to go to the washroom.
Did you know that it’s dangerous, and illegal, to leave your pet unattended in a vehicle? This may limit possible restaurant or tourist attractions so you should plan ahead. Heatstroke can happen very quickly and you can also be charged under the Criminal Code of Canada if your pet is left alone in a vehicle.
When booking accommodations, make sure to confirm that the hotel/motel/airbnb is pet friendly and, if possible, let them know that a pet will be accompanying you. This eliminates any potential issues.
If you are travelling on a plane with you cat or dog, let them get comfortable with their crate well ahead of time. This will help them adjust and feel more comfortable.
To watch the Ontario SPCA’s YouTube video about travelling safely with your pets, click here.
It’s important to stay safe and distraction free when travelling. If you or a loved one find themselves in a car accident or injury, call a personal injury lawyer you can trust. Jeremy Diamond and the team at Diamond & Diamond will work tirelessly to get the compensation you deserve. Call us at 1-800-567-HURT (4878) or contact us here.