A Conversation with Charles L. Starr III about Pets and Travel
Charles L. Starr III
Today we talk with Charles L. Starr III about traveling with pets on board. Hopefully this advice from Charles L. Starr III will come in handy around vacation season.
Community Blog Online: It’s probably safe to say that planning is the first place to start, correct?
Charles L. Starr III: This is true. Pets are like family, but people should ask themselves if it’s a good idea to bring them.
Community Blog Online: What if the answer is “no”?
Charles L. Starr III: Then you should put your pets in a kennel, or have a pet sitter come by to check on them or stay with them.
Community Blog Online: What about your destination?
Charles L. Starr III: Good point. Make sure there are accommodations for pets where you’re going, and that your pet will be welcome. Otherwise it can end up being miserable for all involved!
Community Blog Online: Is there a resource for people who want to know the location of the nearest vet at their vacation destination?
Charles L. Starr III: Yes, MyVeterinarian.com lets you quickly find a vet by zip code.
Community Blog Online: What about identification for my traveling pet?
Charles L. Starr III: This one goes without saying: your pet should be wearing a collar with a current ID tag. Even better, microchips are a permanent form of ID.
Community Blog Online: What about car travel?
Charles L. Starr III: Some pets travel really well by car, and others don’t. Make sure your pet is properly restrained, for starters.
Community Blog Online: Aren’t there several systems around for that?
Charles L. Starr III: Yes, there are. Whatever restraint you use, try to get the pet accustomed to it in advance.
Community Blog Online: How often should we stop for a rest break?
Charles L. Starr III: Let your dog out to do its business, sniff around and stretch its legs once every hour or 90 minutes.
Community Blog Online: You should take your pet’s medications with you too, of course…
Charles L. Starr III: Yes, thanks for pointing that out. Things like heartworm, flea and tick medicine might be scheduled during your trip, along with your pet’s other meds.
Community Blog Online: I know you should bring plenty of food and water, but sometimes our pets are too excited to eat or drink in the car.
Charles L. Starr III: Offer your dog water when you stop, and when you arrive at your destination try to stay on your dog’s usual feeding schedule.
Community Blog Online: Well, thanks for taking a little time with us today!
Charles L. Starr III: Absolutely, always happy to help.
Charles L. Starr III is a practicing veterinarian in the Denver area.