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P.O. Box 1015 Waldorf, MD 20604-1015
Phone: 301 645-8181

5/25/2002. From the American Humane Association
5 Steps To A Great Vacation With Your Pet

Have your pet examined by a veterinarian and get health and rabies certificates. You normally won't need these within the continental United States, but you should have them on hand. If you're leaving the country, be sure to check on quarantine and certificate requirements. Make sure pets are welcome wherever you'll be staying. Plan your hotel/motel stays ahead of time...give them a call to ensure they take pets, or can recommend another place that will.

Remember to pack food and water dishes, bedding, leash and first aid kit. Your pet should wear a collar and ID tag at all times- the tag should carry the name and phone number (with area code) of someone who knows how to find you while you travel.

Feed your pet a light meal several hours before driving. Keep a bowl of ice cubes in the car to provide your pet moisture without allowing it to take big drinks. Stop frequently for exercise, but never allow your pet to run loose. A nylon cord with swivel snaps allowing a maximum length of 15 feet makes a good travel leash. Cats should also wear a harness.

If your pet cannot be held by someone in the car or confined by a harness, get a solidly constructed pet carrier with good ventilation for the pet to ride in. Several days before the trip, open the carrier and let the pet get acquainted with it. Cover the bottom with shredded newspaper for the trip. Never allow your pet to ride with its head out of the window!

Never leave your pet unattended. If you leave it in a parked car on a warm day, it can suffer heat stroke in minutes--or it could become a target for dog thieves or pranksters.

Make sure you're prepared to take good care of your pet and to enjoy its company before you decide to take it on vacation.