As a team of people who love animals, the staff at Indian Tree Animal Hospital creates a friendly environment with a focus on providing excellent care for cats and dogs. From routine annual visits and vaccinations to emergency care for sick pets and the hospital’s surgery center, the skilled staff is prepared to accommodate a large range of pet needs.
“Your pet is so important to us,” shares Britney Hartman, Social Media and Community Outreach Coordinator for the hospital. “We take pride in what we do, and we want to be able to provide the best services, the best knowledge, and the best support we can to our clients. We also have partnerships with trainers and other pet resources in the community to make sure our clients connect with the resources to meet their needs.”
In honor of National Pet Safety Day on January 2nd, Indian Tree Animal Hospital provides travel safety tips to ensure pet and pet owners have the best travel experience possible.
Research transportation and destination details
Confirm that the mode of transportation and destination accommodations allow pets and if any documentation is required. Additional paperwork may be needed to travel out of the country and specific requirements differ for each country. If traveling out of the county, find out if any additional vaccines are required for that area or if a different tick and flea treatment plan is necessary. Traveling to another country often takes a lot of preparation, so consult a veterinarian early in the planning process to ensure your pet is protected for whatever they might encounter during travel.
Book a pre-travel veterinary visit
Confirm that vaccinations are up to date and appropriate for the travel destination. Also obtain current copies of documents and paperwork. With pets that experience motion sickness or anxiety, the veterinarian can give suggestions to help alleviate symptoms or prescribe medication to keep pets as calm and comfortable as possible during travel.
Microchip and collar tag
Ensure the pet has a microchip for easy identification and confirm that contact information on file for the microchip is updated and correct. The first person to encounter a lost pet, however, may not have the ability to scan a microchip so having an emergency name and contact information on a collar tag may result in a faster reunion of pet and owner.
Pack a pet-friendly travel kit
Include food (plus a little more than needed), bowls, medicines, poop bags, and a favorite toy in the kit. It is important to take food and cat litter from home in case the kind normally used is not available during the trip. Changing food can be especially difficult during travel since it often causes gastrointestinal issues. Consider using bottled water as well to minimize stomach issues.
Take a practice trip
If you are planning an extended car ride, take your pet on short drives in the vehicle being used for the trip. Try to include other people who will be traveling with you. This helps pets and other travelers become acclimated to traveling in a moving vehicle together.
Vehicle safety
Always secure animals riding in a vehicle using a pet carrier or seat belt. An unsecured dog is a danger to themselves and others in the vehicle. Lap riding is discouraged. Cats are best secured in a carrier. If they are not accustomed to a carrier, begin well before the trip by getting them used to it at home and then by taking short rides using the carrier. Make the carrier more appealing with a favorite blanket and treats. Never leave an animal unattended in a vehicle and take a break every 3-4 hours to allow your pet to get up, walk around, and use the bathroom.
Emergency preparedness
Research and make note of emergency veterinary services on the travel route and at the destination. Also, create an emergency information card with your name, an emergency contact, and the names and types of pets traveling with you. In case of an emergency, this information will help keep you and your pet from being separated in the long term.
The team at Indian Tree Animal Hospital, located at 7778 Vance Drive, would love to get to know you and your pets. For more information on services and to an appointment, visit www.indiantreeanimalhospital.com or call/text 303-420-4422. For more pet tips, helpful information, and upcoming events, follow @IndianTreeAH on Facebook.