Car travel tips from the ASPCA

Thinking about a vacation? Making plans for a road trip? If you're considering taking along your canine companion, first consider the following car travel tips from the ASPCA:

• Take your companion animal for a veterinary check-up and obtain a health certificate and documentation of inoculations.
• If your pet has never been in a car, take him on short trips to condition him for the journey. Remember, traveling can be very stressful for a pet; you should try to eliminate as much stress as you can.
• Animals should be secure during the trip and not allowed to jump around or hang out of the window. For this reason, a crate or carrier is recommended: A strong, wire mesh crate, not permitted for air travel, is preferable for car trips because it allows ample ventilation. The crate must be large enough for your pet to stand, turn around and lie down in. Line the bottom with towels to absorb urine. Attach bowls for food and water, to be given at intervals during the trip. Accustom your pet to the crate prior to the journey.
• Your pet should wear a flat-buckled ID collar with his name, your address and telephone number. For additional protection, consider tattooing him.
• Try to avoid traveling in extreme weather conditions. If you must travel in hot weather, do it in the early morning or evening.
• Exercise and water should be given during rest stops. Do not allow your pet to run loose at rest areas. No matter how well trained an animal is, this is a new experience and an accident could happen.
• Under no circumstances leave an animal alone in a parked car. It takes only minutes for an animal to develop heatstroke in hot conditions or to freeze in cold.
• If you are planning to stay in a hotel, make arrangements prior to starting your trip. Your pet should be a welcome guest.
• When you arrive at your destination, keep your pet in a calm, quiet area and give him plenty of time to adjust to his new environment.
• Tranquilization is not recommended.