Let’s go on vacation

Memorial Day weekend marked the unofficial start of summer. School is out and folks are packing up the car to head out on vacation.

These days, pets of are such an important part of the family many people wouldn’t consider the family complete unless the pet, usually a dog, comes along for vacation, too. If that’s something you’re thinking about this summer there are several things to do to make the trip enjoyable and safe.

Safety for the pet is a key component. A much-anticipated trip will be ruined if some disaster happen to your cherished dog.

So the first thing to do is to make sure he’s healthy enough to travel. If he’s doesn’t handle change well, hire a babysitter to take care of him at home in his own environment. Both of you will be a lot happier.

But if he’s ready for an adventure, consider taking him with you. Let the doctor check him over. While he’s at the vet, have him microchipped with your current address listed on the records.

Take current photos of your dog on your phone. In the event he escapes you’ll be ready to identify him.

Then make sure he’s wearing a non-slip collar with your name and telephone number on it and put ID tags on. Non-slip collars should always be used instead of regular collars.

What’s so special about a non-slip collar? If a dog is startled and has on a regular collar, chances are he can back out of it in the blink of an eye and escape. You could end up holding an empty leash with your beloved dog nowhere in sight in a strange location.

Keep your pet secure while driving to your destination. There are seat belt attachments that can be purchased to keep him contained. You don’t want him to jump around the car while you’re driving and, heaven forbid, if there were an accident it would help keep him safe and restrained.

Two other important tips to follow: never, ever leave your pet in a parked car and never leave him tied outside a store or restaurant unattended. Even though you may think no one else could possibly want your pet if you tethered him outside, you may be surprised to learn dognappers exist. Plus, there are so many pet friendly restaurants that have outdoor dining there’s no reason not to take your dog out to eat with you.

Not sure where the hotels and restaurants are that would welcome your dog? There is a terrific website that lists everything you need to know about bringing your dog along. It’s www.bringfido.com and it’s wonderful.

Have fun, keep your dog by your side and stay safe!

This story was originally published June 2, 2017 at 2:14 PM with the headline "Let’s go on vacation."