Thursday, May 19, 2011

Travelling With Your Canine

By Humphrey Smith


Every so often we have to take our canine companion out for a ride. Whether you are taking him shopping, getting some exercise in the park, or dropping by the good vet, you will want to follow the a set of smart protocols so that you and your dog can reach the destination in one piece.

Begin by teaching your dog that whenever he is in a vehicle, he needs to know that his place is exclusively in the back. You do not want him to climb his way onto your shoulder to get your attention, all the while you're navigating through the traffic. Repeatedly issue the stay put command until he grasps the concept, which might take some time, but it can also save you from having to make a vehicle claim as a result of him causing you an accident.

You will also want to keep him comfortable. Ensure the dog has adequate space to stretch a bit every once in a while, which some vehicles like the Ford Escape is more up for the task. Try and minimise his boredom by bringing along his favourite snacks, toys, or that towel he enjoys sleeping on.

What you also have to watch out for is car sickness. Dogs usually can not grasp the idea of staring into the windscreen to reduce the ailment. Getting sun shadings for your side windows can help. Vets can also provide applicable medication for your traveling hounds if necessary.

On the night before a very long road trip with your pet, cut down his meal size and never offer him any food right before the journey. Doing so can make things easier on his stomach, which is very likely to become agitated as he is travelling. Only give your dog treats inside the car on a seldom basis.

Ventilation is also very important, given that a dog is typically more sensitive to heat than human beings. It is quite possible for the temperature inside a car to rise up to twenty degrees above the exterior temperature. This can seriously endanger kids and pets alike. Maintain a decent air flow by pulling down the windows, without leaving a gap large enough for the dog to leap out, of course.

In addition, check out the local pet stores and the internet for pet safety harness and seat belts for dogs. Some of these harnesses are designed to work directly with the seat belt sockets of your car. These apparatus can keep your dogs from moving around too much, and protect them in the event of a incidental impact.




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