Traveling with Your Pet: A Quick Checklist for Pet Owners

In the rush and excitement before leaving for a trip, it's so easy to forget something. And when you're a pet owner, it's even more of a challenge -- not only are you packing for yourself, but you're packing for your pet, too! [It doesn't help when Fido runs around wildly with excitement, poking his nose into piles of clothing... while Fluffy daintily picks her way through each and every suitcase!] Here's a quick list of things to prepare for your pet before you leave: * Medications. Before you leave, consult with your vet. Pick up refills of any medications your pet will need while you are away ... and find out whether or not there are any health concerns about the area to which you are traveling -- for example, fleas and ticks are common concerns which can be alleviated with certain medications. Talk to your vet. * Kennel or carrier. Some places ask that you kennel your pet if you are going out and leaving him in the room. The kennel is also a safe way for your pet to travel; please don't let your dog ride loose in the back of a pickup truck; he could fall out and suffer serious injuries. If your pet is prone to jumping out of the car unexpectedly (ie. while at a rest stop, or when the doors are opened), the kennel will keep him safe. * Food and water bowls. * Food (and maybe even water)! Keeping your pet on the same diet that he's accustomed to will help to prevent an upset stomach. If your pet has a sensitive stomach, you may also want to bring water. Don't forget to bring along a few treats! * Stain remover/cleaning supplies... just in case! Please be courteous and clean up as much pet hair, etc. as you can. Vacation rentals do not have to allow pets; a few minutes spent cleaning can help to ensure that our four-legged friends continue to be welcomed. * Plastic bags for picking up after your pooch. If you're traveling with your kitty, bring his or her litter box and litter. * Grooming tools - including a comb and/or brush, nail clippers, pet shampoo, and anything else your pet needs. Your active pet may end up needing a bit of a 'touch-up' after a happy day hard at play! * Extra towels - for wiping those muddy paws and wet or dirty bodies! * Collar and leash(es). If you are travelling to a remote area, consider bringing an extra leash - just in case one of them breaks. * Bedding. Many vacation rentals ask that pets stay off the beds or furniture, so your pet will appreciate a comfortable pet bed or blanket. * Identification. Be sure to record the license numbers, tattoo numbers, and microchip numbers of your pets and bring this list with you. * Vaccination records and other documents. If you are travelling from another one country to another, be sure to check what types of vaccinations your pet will need. Bring an up-to-date record with you. Also check whether or not there are any special requirements for either traveling into the country, or returning to your own. * Recent photo. Unfortunately, . If your pet is lost while you are traveling, the photo will prove to be a handy tool when describing him to others. * First aid kit. Accidents happen. You can purchase an animal first aid kit from the Humane Society of Canada at http://www.humanesociety.com/ .