Planning ahead for vacations
PET BULLETIN
‘Mews and Yips’ from the Central Aroostook Humane Society
Carolyn Cheney
Board of Directors
Summer is coming, and at this time of year our thoughts turn to getting away for a weekend or a longer vacation, especially after this winter. We who have pets need to make plans for their care if they are not coming with us.
Some folks want their pets to accompany them and that is possible, provided the animals can be accommodated wherever you are going. Some hotels do accept pets, and if you plan a camping vacation, many camping areas accept them provided they are kept on a leash. It is important to check any facility you want to stay at to see if they are pet-friendly.
Before you decide to take your pet along with you, know how your four-legged friend travels. Take them for some rides in the car and see how they react. If they bark constantly or get car sick, I don’t think they will make a very good travel companion. Also, make sure they are healthy and up to date on all vaccinations.
If you are going to be around a lot of people or animals in a noisy environment, know if your pet is sociable and at ease in this kind of situations. Many years ago we were camping with our dog Deros on July 4 and we left him in our travel trailer so we could join some friends and enjoy the fireworks. When we returned an hour later, Deros had torn the screen out of the trailer window and disappeared. Needless to say, we were terribly upset, but many folks helped us look for Deros, and we got him back. We hadn’t given a thought that the fireworks would bother him, but we learned a hard lesson that many dogs are petrified of fireworks or any loud noises.
It is important to keep in mind that if your pet must stay in the car when you are in a restaurant or a facility, they are comfortable whether it is cold or hot. We have used our remote car starter before to keep the temperature in the car comfortable.
If traveling with your four-legged companion is not an option, there are many ways to leave your furry friend at home and you can be at ease with the arrangements. In this area there are some excellent kennels. If you wish to leave your beloved pet, book early as they fill up quickly during the summer months and school vacation periods. Hiring a trusted individual to care for your animal while you are away is another option. Most importantly, plan ahead so both you and your family and the beloved family pet will be happy.
Check us out on petfinders.com and Facebook. Unfortunately, in the United States there are so many dogs and cats in shelters that need homes. Please spay/neuter your animals and help us keep the population down.
